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Prescott Airport

About the Airport

Prescott Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Prescott Airport (PRC) is the air gateway to the picturesque heart of Arizona, where the spirit of the Wild West meets modern aviation service. Located amidst expressive mountain landscapes, it offers travellers a unique alternative to noisy metropolises: here, the flight begins not with queues, but with inspiring views. It is a cosy haven where every passenger feels like a welcome guest rather than just a statistic, making arrival here the perfect start for exploring the region.

IATA Code PRC
ICAO Code KPRC
City Prescott
Distance to Centre ~16 km
Status Regional (Domestic)
Annual Passengers About 60,000
Schedule Check the website

Features and Advantages of the Airport

A key advantage of the airport is its new modern terminal, opened in 2021. This compact and stylish building is designed to keep stress levels to a minimum: check-in and security screening here happen at lightning speed compared to major hubs. Passengers can enjoy peace and comfort without the fear of missing their flight due to endless queues.

The airport is also renowned for its unique atmosphere and views. Its location in a high-altitude area ensures breathtaking panoramas during takeoff and landing, allowing you to see the famous Granite Dells from a bird's-eye view. Additionally, the proximity to the prestigious Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University turns waiting for a flight into a fascinating spectacle: you can often observe the skills of future pilots performing training flights.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled key contacts for Prescott Regional Airport (PRC), also known as Ernest A. Love Field. While we strive to provide accurate information, we recommend always checking current data on official resources.

  • Official Website: You can find the most complete information about flights, services, and airport news on the official portal: prescott-az.gov/business-development/airport/.
  • Information Desk Phone: For general questions regarding airport operations, you can contact the administration at: +1 928-777-1114.
  • Airport Address: 6546 Crystal Lane, Prescott, AZ 86301, USA.
  • Email: For non-urgent enquiries, you can write to the airport administration at: airport.administration@prescott-az.gov.
  • Social Media: You can follow news on the official City of Prescott Facebook page, where updates regarding the airport are also published: facebook.com/cityofprescottaz.
  • Lost and Found Information: If your belongings were lost within the terminal building, contact airport administration (+1 928-777-1114). In case of loss or damage to baggage during the flight, or if you left something on board the aircraft, contact your airline's baggage tracing service directly (e.g., United Airlines at +1 800-864-8331).
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions regarding air tickets, flight check-in, baggage allowances, and special services, you must contact the airline you are flying with.

How to Get to the Airport

Prescott Airport (PRC), also known as Ernest A. Love Field, is located approximately 16 kilometres northeast of the city centre of Prescott. The drive from the centre to the terminal usually takes about 15-20 minutes. However, it is important to consider that the local airport serves a limited number of destinations. Many travellers, especially from other states or abroad, fly into the larger Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and then travel to Prescott. This popular route by car takes approximately 2 hours and passes through picturesque Arizona roads.

Car Rental is the most convenient way to get around, regardless of the arrival airport. Offices of several major rental companies operate at PRC and Phoenix Airport. Having your own transport will give you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace, which is particularly relevant in a country like the USA, where attractions can be located at significant distances from each other. It is recommended to book a car in advance to get better rates.

Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are excellent for trips between the city and the local airport (PRC). This is a fast and comfortable way to reach your destination, especially if you are travelling without a large amount of luggage. The cost of a trip from central Prescott is usually between 25–40 dollars depending on demand and time of day.

If you are travelling to Prescott Airport in your own or a rented car, parking is at your service. The territory offers both short-term and long-term parking zones located within walking distance of the terminal. Parking prices are moderate, but it is recommended to check current rates on the airport's official website before a long trip.

Unfortunately, there is no direct public transport connection, such as city buses, to Prescott Airport. Travellers looking for budget options or those not wishing to rent a car should consider commercial shuttles. These are particularly relevant for the route between Phoenix and Prescott. It is recommended to book seats in shuttles in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Terminals and Map

Prescott Airport (PRC), also known as Ernest A. Love Field Airport, is distinguished by its modern and compact structure, making it extremely convenient for travellers. A key feature of the airport is the presence of one new passenger terminal, opened in 2021. This means you won't have to worry about moving between different buildings or complex navigation.

All airport infrastructure is concentrated in a single building. The terminal layout is intuitive: it is divided into a departure zone and an arrival zone. Since everything is under one roof, there are no transfers between terminals — you can easily get from one part of the building to another on foot in a few minutes. This is an ideal option for those who dislike the bustle of large aviation hubs.

The Departure Zone includes check-in counters for several airlines and a centralised security screening point. Thanks to the small passenger flow, passing through check-in and control usually takes significantly less time than in large airports. Typically, all procedures take no more than 20-30 minutes, however, it is always better to arrive with time to spare, approximately 60-90 minutes before the flight departure.

The Arrival Zone is equally simple and functional. After exiting the aircraft, you immediately enter the baggage claim hall with one luggage belt. Waiting for suitcases is rarely long. Exits to parking, taxi stands, and shuttles are located nearby, allowing you to leave the airport quickly.

The main recommendation for navigation at Prescott Airport is to simply follow the signs. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and small size of the terminal, getting lost here is practically impossible. This makes PRC Airport an excellent starting point for a journey, allowing you to begin your holiday without unnecessary stress.

Airport History

The history of Prescott Airport (PRC), officially known as Ernest A. Love Field, is closely tied to the development of aviation in Arizona. The airport received its name in honour of Ernest A. Love, a local First World War hero and pilot who died in 1918. The official opening and dedication took place on September 28, 1928, laying the foundation for the future aviation hub of the region.

A key stage in the airport's history was the Second World War. During this period, it was transformed into a training base for the USA Air Force and was known as Prescott Army Airfield. Thousands of pilots were trained here, which required significant expansion of infrastructure and runways. After the war ended, the facility was returned to the municipal ownership of the city of Prescott.

In the post-war years, the airport began serving commercial flights, accepting aircraft from various airlines. However, it received a real impetus for development in 1978, when the campus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University opened nearby. This turned Prescott Airport into one of the largest flight training centres in the country, which today ensures it holds one of the top places in the state for the number of takeoffs and landings.

The modern history of the airport has been marked by large-scale modernisation. The old terminal, built back in the 1940s, could no longer cope with the growing passenger flow. In March 2021, the long-awaited opening of the new passenger terminal took place. This modern building with an area of over 1,600 square metres provided passengers with comfort and service befitting the status of an important regional airport.

Among interesting facts is the airport's location at an altitude of more than 1,500 metres above sea level, creating special conditions for pilot training. Today, Prescott Airport is not just a transport hub, but an important economic and educational centre, continuing the glorious aviation traditions established nearly a century ago.

Services and Facilities

Despite its compact size, Prescott Airport (PRC) offers passengers modern amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal features The Flight Deck restaurant, where you can have a snack or drink coffee while watching the planes. The selection of shops here is small, which is typical for regional airports, so it is better to take care of purchasing souvenirs and necessary items in the city beforehand.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. You will also easily find power outlets and USB ports to charge your gadgets before departure. It is important to note that the airport does not have specialised VIP lounges or business lounges, however, the general waiting areas are noted for their cleanliness and comfort.

There are no bank branches or currency exchange points in the airport building, so it is recommended to resolve all financial matters in the city. In case of unforeseen situations, staff are ready to provide first aid, but there is no specialised medical centre in the terminal.

The airport is fully adapted to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: it is equipped with ramps, lifts, and special restrooms. If necessary, you can book an escort service in advance through the airline. For travellers with small children, baby changing tables are provided in the restrooms.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, however, just a few minutes' drive away, in the city of Prescott, there are many accommodation options. Conference rooms and business centres are also absent in the terminal; for business meetings, it is better to use the services of hotels and business centres in the city.

Where to Eat

Prescott Airport (PRC) is a compact regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is designed to ensure basic comfort for passengers before departure. Options are concentrated in one place, making navigation very simple.

The main and, essentially, the only place where you can have a full meal and a drink is the café-bar The Red Shank. It is located in the main terminal, in the departure zone after passing security (airside). This means it is available primarily to passengers waiting for their flight. In the area before screening (landside), dining options are practically non-existent.

The café menu features classic American dishes suitable for both a quick snack and a leisurely lunch. Here you can order:

  • For a full meal: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and hot appetisers.
  • For a quick snack: pastries, crisps, ready-made sandwiches, and other snacks.
  • Drinks: coffee, tea, juices, carbonated drinks, as well as a bar with a selection of beer and wine. Occasionally, products from local Arizona breweries can be found here.

Regarding special dietary needs, the choice is quite limited. Vegetarians may find a salad or a sandwich without meat in the menu, but specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes are most likely not offered. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you.

The establishment's opening hours are directly tied to the flight schedule: it opens well before the first morning flight and operates until the departure of the last evening aircraft. The price range is average for airports, meaning slightly higher than in ordinary city cafés.

Travel Tips

Travelling through a regional airport, such as Prescott Airport, is often calmer and faster than through major international hubs. To ensure your trip from Prescott goes as smoothly as possible, use our tips.

Arrival time at the airport. Although Prescott Airport (PRC) is a small airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing.

Check-in and security. Procedures at regional airports usually go faster. Nevertheless, keep your ID and boarding pass ready. You can save time by checking in for the flight online on your airline's website. Security control here is standard for the USA, so be prepared to remove outerwear, and take out laptops and liquids from hand luggage.

Seat selection on the plane. Flights from Prescott are usually operated on small regional aircraft. If you want to enjoy views of the picturesque Arizona landscapes, choose a window seat. If the ability to stretch your legs or quickly leave the cabin upon arrival is more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand luggage. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and other dangerous items in hand luggage. Since flights are operated by regional liners, check with your airline regarding the permissible dimensions of hand luggage — they may be smaller than standard.

Passengers with connections. Most flights from Prescott go to major hubs, such as Denver or Los Angeles, where you will make a connection. Ensure you have enough time between flights (usually at least 1-1.5 hours). Immediately upon arrival at the transfer airport, check the information board for the gate number of your next flight.

Customs control. Prescott Airport does not serve international flights, so there is no customs and border control here. If you are flying to another country, you will undergo these procedures at the major international airport where you have your connection.

Saving time and money. Book tickets and airport parking in advance to get the best prices. Check in for the flight online. Take an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control, and light snacks so as not to spend extra in the airport.

Flight delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, the first thing to do is contact your airline representative at the boarding gate or at the check-in counter. They will provide current information and explain your further actions. The small airport terminal has a waiting area and basic amenities to pass the time.

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