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Portland International Jetport

About the Airport

Portland International Jetport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Portland International Jetport (PWM) is not merely a transport hub, but a true "green" gateway to the picturesque state of Maine, setting the tone for your entire journey. The airport is renowned for its cozy and tranquil atmosphere, which sets a mood for a relaxed holiday from the very first minute, and its unique ecological design utilizing geothermal energy. Despite its compact size, the terminal offers modern service and surprisingly fast logistics, allowing travelers to be in the city center just 10–15 minutes after landing. It is the perfect start to exploring the "Pine Tree State," where technology harmoniously combines with sincere care for nature.

IATA Code PWM
ICAO Code KPWM
City Portland / South Portland (Maine)
Distance to Center ~5 km
Status International
Annual Passengers ~2.44 million (2024)
Schedule Online board on the airport website

Airport Features and Advantages

  • Eco-Leader: Portland Jetport is known for its innovations in sustainable development. The terminal uses geothermal heating and cooling and was the first airport in the USA to implement an advanced de-icing fluid recycling system.
  • Convenience and Accessibility: The airport is regularly updated, offering passengers new jet bridges and enhanced comfort zones. Excellent conditions are created here for passengers with reduced mobility and travelers with pets, and navigation is intuitively clear.
  • Proximity to the City: One of the main advantages of PWM is its fantastic location. The trip to the historic center of Portland (Old Port) takes only about 10–15 minutes by taxi or bus.
  • Atmosphere of Maine: Inside the terminal, you can immediately feel the spirit of the region: interiors are decorated with natural wood and stone, and local shops sell fresh lobsters in special travel-ready packaging.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Portland International Jetport (PWM).

  • Official Website: portlandjetport.org. Here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport rules.
  • Inquiry Phone: +1 (207) 774-7301. General information can be obtained at this number.
  • Address: 1001 Westbrook Street, Portland, Maine 04102, USA.
  • Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published; however, a contact form for communicating with the administration is available on the official website.
  • Social Media: You can follow airport news and updates on its official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
  • Lost and Found: If items were lost in public areas of the airport, please contact the Lost and Found service at +1 (207) 874-8873. For issues related to checked baggage or items left on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline's representative office directly.
  • Passenger Support: For general questions, you can call the main information number. To resolve issues regarding tickets, schedules, or specific flight requirements, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Portland International Jetport (PWM) from the center of Portland is effortless, as it is located just a few kilometers from the business part of the city. Depending on your budget, time, and amount of luggage, you can choose from several convenient methods. A car ride from the center usually takes about 15-20 minutes without traffic, making this airport very accessible for travelers.

The most economical option is public transport. The Greater Portland METRO bus on route No. 5 runs regularly between the city center (Elm Street Pulse) and the airport. This is an excellent choice for those traveling light. The fare is low, and the travel time is approximately 25-30 minutes. The schedule can be checked on the carrier's official website. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the terminal, but you can quickly reach the airport by taxi from the Amtrak station.

For maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with family, taxis or popular ridesharing services (such as Uber and Lyft) are best. A car can be ordered to any point in the city. A trip from the center to the airport will cost an average of 20-30 dollars and take about 15 minutes. This is a fast and reliable way to get to the terminal without unnecessary transfers or waiting.

If you are traveling in your own or a rented car, various parking options are provided at Portland airport. You will find both short-term lots for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, and several long-term parking lots, including a covered garage, at more favorable rates. There is also a free waiting area (Cell Phone Lot). We recommend checking current rates and parking locations on the airport's official website in advance to plan your time and budget.

For travelers exploring New England or looking for alternative routes, there are several other airports in neighboring cities of the USA. For example, Manchester–Boston Regional Airport (MHT) and the major Logan International Airport (BOS) offer more flight options. It is also worth considering Knox County Regional Airport (RKD), Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB), and Provincetown Municipal Airport (PVC) for planning travels around the region.

Terminals and Map

Portland International Jetport (PWM) is distinguished by a thoughtful structure convenient for passengers. All operations are concentrated in one main terminal, which completely eliminates confusion with transfers between different buildings and makes navigation intuitively clear even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal is divided into two main levels. The first floor is the arrivals zone. This is where you will arrive after your plane lands. Located here are baggage claim belts, car rental counters, exits to taxis, shuttles, and public transport, as well as a tourist information center. The second floor is entirely dedicated to departures. Located on this level are check-in counters for all airlines operating at the airport and the main security checkpoint.

After passing through screening, passengers enter a single sterile area — a spacious and modern concourse where the boarding gates are located. All gates are within walking distance, and moving from one to another does not take much time. Due to the airport's compactness, you will not need buses or trains to move to your gate. All navigation is done on foot, and numerous signs will help you orient yourself easily.

Regarding time, passing through procedures at Portland airport usually happens quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure. During peak hours, such as holidays or mornings, it is better to allow about two hours in reserve to pass check-in and security screening without rushing. After screening, you will have enough time to find your gate and visit shops or cafes located in the departure zone.

Airport History

The history of Portland International Airport, known as Portland International Jetport (PWM), began long before the jet age. Its roots go back to the 1920s when a small airfield was opened on this site. The first regular commercial flights from Portland started in 1934, connecting the city with Boston and laying the foundation for the future development of air travel in the state of Maine and across the USA. During World War II, the airport played an important role, serving as a base for air patrols and training flights.

A real breakthrough occurred with the advent of the jet era. To accommodate new, faster, and larger aircraft, the runways were significantly lengthened in 1957 and 1966. It was then that the airport received its proud name — "Jetport," emphasizing its readiness for modern air transportation. In 1968, a new terminal was built, which became the main building of the air transport hub for many years.

Portland International Jetport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

A key stage in the airport's recent history was a large-scale reconstruction and expansion completed in 2011. As part of this project, the terminal area was nearly doubled, new boarding gates appeared, the baggage claim area was modernized, and a more comfortable environment for passengers was created. Notably, the new terminal was designed taking into account environmental standards and received the prestigious LEED Gold certification, which was a significant achievement and confirmation of its modern approach to development.

Among the interesting facts in the airport's history is its international status. It was obtained after the opening of customs and border control, which allowed for receiving flights from abroad, particularly from Canada. Today, PWM is the busiest airport in the state of Maine, remaining a crucial transport hub that connects this picturesque corner of New England with the whole world and preserves the rich history of American aviation development.

Services and Amenities

Portland International Jetport (PWM) offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find various establishments for every taste: from cafes with quick snacks and freshly brewed coffee to restaurants where you can have a full lunch while enjoying local cuisine dishes. Shops offer both travel essentials and unique souvenirs from the state of Maine.

For those looking for a quiet place to rest or work, the airport provides waiting lounges. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to always stay connected. If you need to handle financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service.

The airport cares about the comfort of all categories of travelers. Special mother and child rooms are equipped for families with children. Passengers with disabilities are provided with all necessary assistance, including an accessible environment, special restrooms, and staff support. In case of necessity, one can visit the first aid station.

For business travelers and those needing a place to work, the airport has convenient work zones and business services. If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal, reachable on foot or by free shuttle. This makes Portland airport a convenient point to start or end your journey across the USA.

Dining

At Portland International Jetport (PWM), travelers will find diverse dining options despite its compact size. Most establishments are located in the main secure area (airside), but a few options are also available in the public area (landside).

For those wishing to experience local cuisine, it is highly recommended to visit Linda Bean's Perfect Maine. Here you can try the famous lobster roll — the calling card of the state of Maine. This is an excellent choice for a full lunch or dinner before departure. Another establishment with regional flair is The Shipyard Brewport, serving pub-style dishes and beverages from a local brewery. This place is suitable for relaxing while waiting for a flight.

If you are short on time, the airport has several spots for a quick bite. In the post-security zone, you will find Starbucks for morning coffee and pastries, as well as Burger King for standard fast food. Additionally, small shops and kiosks operate, offering sandwiches, salads, snacks, and takeaway drinks.

Passengers with special dietary needs should pay attention to the menus in full-service restaurants, where vegetarian salads and snacks can often be found. Cafes usually have plant-based milk for coffee and sometimes gluten-free snacks. For more specific requests, such as Halal dishes, it is recommended to clarify information directly with the establishment's staff, as specialized outlets may not be available.

The price range at the airport varies from affordable fast food to moderately high prices in restaurants. Most establishments open early in the morning to serve passengers on the first flights and operate until the departure of the last evening plane. However, it is better to check exact opening hours in advance on the airport's official website.

Travel Tips

Planning is the key to a calm journey. To avoid unnecessary stress, we recommend arriving at Portland International Jetport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control, especially during morning hours and holiday periods.

Portland International Jetport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

To save time at the airport, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website. Security procedures at Portland airport are standard for the USA and are conducted by the TSA. Be prepared to present your boarding pass and identification, as well as to remove large electronic devices and permitted liquids from your carry-on luggage for separate scanning.

Choosing a seat on the plane depends on your preferences. A window seat will allow you to enjoy the views, especially if you are flying to a picturesque region. An aisle seat will provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. If a quick exit upon arrival is important to you, choose rows in the front part of the cabin.

Liquids in containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) are allowed in carry-on luggage. All of them must be packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Always keep valuables, documents, money, and necessary medicines in your carry-on luggage.

If you have a connecting flight, study the airport map in advance to quickly orient yourself and find the boarding gate you need. Upon arrival on an international flight, you will have to pass passport and customs control. Prepare your passport, visa (if required), and customs declaration to speed up the process. Be ready to answer standard questions about the purpose of your visit and the items you are bringing in.

There are several ways to save money at the airport. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at a drinking fountain after passing security control. Parking at the airport is often cheaper to book online in advance. To save time, use online check-in services and, if possible, travel with carry-on luggage only.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter to receive up-to-date information. Clarify your rights regarding the provision of meals or hotel accommodation. Follow updates on information boards and in the airline's app. Free time can be used to rest in waiting lounges or visit shops or cafes.

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