Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport

Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) is not just a transport hub, but a welcoming gateway to the picturesque Palouse region, famous for its rolling "velvet" hills and unique landscapes. The airport holds a special place on the US map as it serves the interests of two university communities in neighbouring states simultaneously — Washington State University and the University of Idaho. Thanks to recent large-scale modernisation and a cosy, almost home-like atmosphere, travelling through this air harbour is devoid of the stress found in megacities and allows you to enjoy the views even before boarding the plane.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its modest size, Pullman–Moscow plays a critically important role in the life of the region and offers passengers a number of undeniable advantages:

• University Hub: This is the main entry point for students, faculty, and fans of the "Cougars" (WSU) and "Vandals" (U of I) sports teams. On match days and during graduation, the airport is filled with special energy and excitement.
• New Infrastructure: Following the completion of a major Runway Alignment Project, the airport gained the ability to accept larger aircraft and significantly reduced the number of flight delays caused by the fog characteristic of the Palouse lowlands.
• Service Speed: Due to the compactness of the terminal, the journey from the building entrance to the gate takes mere minutes. Passing through security screening here is considered one of the fastest and calmest in the country.
• Scenic Views: Take-off and landing at PUW gift passengers with stunning panoramas of agricultural lands, changing their colour from emerald green in spring to gold in summer.

To contact the administration of Pullman–Moscow Airport and obtain current information, you can use the following details:

• Official Website: www.flypuw.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (509) 338-3223
• Address: 3200 Airport Rd, Pullman, WA 99163, USA
• Email: contact@flypuw.com
• Social Media: Follow the latest news and airport updates on its official social media pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, contact the administration via the main phone number. For luggage lost during a flight, please contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general enquiries and assistance, you can use the airport's main contact phone number.

Getting to Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres east of the city centre of Pullman. This small but convenient airport serves both the state of Washington and the neighbouring city of Moscow in Idaho. Here are the main ways to reach it.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use the local Pullman Transit bus network. Some routes pass near the airport, however, there may not be a direct connection to the terminal. It is recommended to study the schedule and route map on the carrier's official website in advance. This option is suitable for those travelling light and with time to spare, as the journey may involve a walk from the nearest stop.

Taxi and Transfer

The fastest and most comfortable method is a taxi or ride-sharing services (such as Uber and Lyft), which are widely available in the USA. The trip from the city centre will take just 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of the trip is usually around $15–25. This is an ideal option if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is especially convenient during peak periods associated with events at Washington State University.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to explore the picturesque Palouse region, renting a car will be the best solution. Most major rental companies have counters directly at the airport. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high season. For those driving to the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones located within walking distance of the terminal.

Alternative Airports

For a wider choice of flights, travellers sometimes consider larger airports. The nearest alternative is Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport (LWS), located approximately 42 km away. However, the largest hub in the region is Spokane International Airport (GEG), situated at a distance of about 103 km. Please note that travelling from these airports to Pullman will require additional time and expense for ground transport.

Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) is a small and convenient aviation hub distinguished by its compactness and simple structure. The airport operates only one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, navigation through it is intuitive and causes no difficulties even for those here for the first time.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. The building is divided into several functional zones located in close proximity to one another. Upon entering the terminal, you find yourself in the public area where the airline check-in desks and baggage drop-off point are located. Immediately behind them is the single security screening checkpoint. Once through, passengers find themselves in the secure area — a small waiting lounge with boarding gates.

The arrival zone is also integrated into the general space. Passengers arriving at Pullman–Moscow, after disembarking the plane, immediately enter the baggage claim area, which is located a few steps from the main terminal entrance/exit. Since all services are in one building, there are no transfers between terminals.

One of the main advantages of PUW airport is the speed of completing all pre-flight formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take no more than 15-20 minutes, even during peak load periods. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure to complete all procedures without haste. Finding your boarding gate is effortless — all gates are located in the same waiting hall and are clearly visible.

The history of Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) is a unique example of cooperation and growth, closely linked to the development of two university cities: Pullman in Washington state and Moscow in Idaho state. The airport was founded in 1941 and from the very beginning of its operation played a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for Washington State University and the University of Idaho. Its main feature is the joint management by the City of Pullman and Latah County (Idaho), making it a vivid symbol of interstate partnership.

During World War II, the airfield was used as a training base for the Army Air Corps of the USA. After the war, it fully transitioned to civil purposes, serving the growing needs of the Palouse region. Over the decades, the airport has constantly developed: the first unpaved runways were replaced with asphalt ones, and the passenger terminal was repeatedly expanded and modernised to cope with the increasing flow of passengers.

The most significant event in the airport's recent history was the major reconstruction and realignment of the runway, completed in 2019. The old runway had limitations in length and location, which did not allow for the accommodation of larger modern aircraft and did not meet updated safety standards. The construction of a new, longer, and wider runway became one of the largest engineering projects in the region's history and opened a new era for the airport, allowing airlines to use higher-capacity liners.

The next logical step was the construction of a completely new passenger terminal, which began after the completion of the runway works. The old building could no longer provide the necessary level of comfort and capacity. The new, modern terminal is designed with future needs in mind, offering passengers spacious waiting lounges, improved logistics, and modern amenities. This comprehensive modernisation confirms Pullman–Moscow Airport's status as a vital air gateway for the entire region.

Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) is a compact but well-equipped terminal that provides passengers with all essential services for a comfortable journey. Here you will find a cosy and calm atmosphere typical of small regional airports.

A café is available for passengers, where you can order beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. There is also a small shop offering souvenirs, press, and travel necessities. The selection of establishments is small but sufficient for a bite to eat before departure.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected and handle work matters. The waiting lounge features convenient charging stations for mobile phones and laptops, equipped with power outlets and USB ports.

There are no specialised VIP lounges or business centres at the airport. Banking services are limited to ATMs. Please note that currency exchange services are not provided, so it is recommended to arrange this in advance. There is no medical room; however, airport staff are ready to provide first aid and call emergency services if necessary.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with ADA standards. Ramps, accessible toilets, and special parking spaces are provided. To receive assistance with boarding and moving through the terminal, you should notify your airline in advance. Families with small children can use changing tables in the restrooms.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, but in the immediate vicinity, in the cities of Pullman and Moscow, there are many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget. You can reach them by taxi or rental car, with rental counters located directly in the terminal.

Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) is a compact airport, so all dining options are concentrated in the main terminal building. Although the selection here is not as wide as in major international hubs, you will be able to find options for both a quick snack and a more substantial meal before departure.

The main place to eat is the airport café, located in the public zone of the terminal (before security control). This means it is accessible not only to departing passengers but also to those meeting or seeing them off. The café offers an American-style menu, which includes classic breakfast dishes, sandwiches, burgers, salads, and soups. Here you can also get coffee, tea, soft drinks, and light pastries.

For those in a hurry, a coffee and sandwich to go is the ideal choice. If you have time before your flight, you can sit calmly and order a full lunch, for example, a classic cheeseburger with chips (fries). Prices in the café are moderate, comparable to standard airport prices.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Vegetarians can generally find salads on the menu or ask for a sandwich to be prepared without meat. Passengers adhering to a vegan, gluten-free, or Halal diet are advised to clarify the availability of suitable dishes directly with the café staff or, to be certain, bring food with them. The establishment's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens before the first morning departure and closes after the last evening plane departs.

Travelling through Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) usually proceeds smoothly and without the unnecessary fuss typical of large aviation hubs. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Since this is a small regional airport, you do not need to arrive 3-4 hours before departure. Typically, arriving 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure is quite sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control. During peak periods, for example, during holidays at Washington State University or the University of Idaho, it is better to add a buffer of time and arrive 2 hours before departure.

Check-in and Security. To save time, check in for your flight online via your airline's website or mobile app. This allows you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. Security screening at Pullman airport usually goes quickly, but all standard TSA rules of the USA apply here. Be prepared to remove laptops and liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection on the Plane. Flights from Pullman are often operated on regional aircraft. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat — picturesque landscapes of the hilly Palouse region open up during take-off and landing. An aisle seat will provide more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours.

Hand Luggage. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: containers no larger than 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in one transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre, one bag per passenger. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. Consider that overhead bins on regional flights may be smaller than standard, so clarify permissible hand luggage dimensions with your airline to avoid having to gate-check your bag.

Passengers with Connections. Most flights from Pullman–Moscow Airport head to major hubs, such as Seattle (SEA), for further connections. When booking, ensure you have enough time between flights (at least 60-90 minutes for domestic connections). Study the map of the connecting airport in advance to know how to quickly get to the next gate.

Customs Control. Pullman–Moscow Regional Airport serves only domestic flights, so there is no border or customs control here. If you are arriving in the USA from abroad, you will go through these procedures at the first airport of arrival in the country (for example, in Seattle or Los Angeles), after which your flight to Pullman will be considered domestic.

Saving Time and Money. Book tickets in advance, especially if your trip coincides with holidays or university breaks. Compare baggage fees — sometimes it is cheaper to pay online than at the airport. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security, and light snacks, as the choice of food in the small airport is limited.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, monitor updates via the airline's mobile app — this is the fastest way to get information. Contact an airline representative at the counter to learn about rebooking options. Since the airport is small and the number of flights is limited, keep a book, headphones, or a charged power bank with you to pass the waiting time.