Rochester International Airport

Rochester International Airport (RST) is Minnesota's third-largest commercial airport and plays a key role in the transport system of the state's southeast. Conveniently located just 11 kilometres from the city centre, it serves as a vital gateway for patients and guests of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. In honour of the clinic, customs services were opened here in 1995, granting the airport its international status. Today, the airport offers passengers a calm and comfortable alternative to major aviation hubs, and it is managed by a subsidiary of the Mayo Clinic, highlighting its special mission and focus on service.

The main advantage of Rochester Airport is its exceptional focus on passenger comfort. Thanks to its compact size and well-thought-out navigation, completing all pre-flight formalities takes minimal time. The airport is particularly convenient for travellers heading to the Mayo Clinic and even serves as a base for Mayo Clinic MedAir medical aviation. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, convenient parking, and several ground transport options to the city. Although scheduled flights are primarily operated to major hubs such as Chicago and Minneapolis, the airport is capable of handling international private and charter flights, ensuring a high level of service.

For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations at Rochester International Airport (RST), we recommend consulting official sources.

• Official Website: flyrst.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (507) 282-2328
• Address: 7600 Helgerson Dr SW, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
• Email: Communication with the airport administration is conducted via a special contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: Follow airport news on the official pages on Facebook and Twitter (X).
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the airport's lost property service at +1 (507) 282-2328 (ext. 100). For items left on board an aircraft, you should contact your airline's representative directly.
• Customer Support Contacts: For general inquiries and assistance, you may use the main airport information desk phone number.

Rochester International Airport (RST) is located just a few kilometres south of the city centre of Rochester, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose from several modes of transport depending on their budget, time, and preferences when planning their trip to the USA.

Public Transport is the most economical way to reach the airport. Buses operated by Rochester Public Transit (RPT) run regularly between the city centre and the airport. The bus journey usually takes about 20–30 minutes and is the most budget-friendly option. We recommend checking the current schedule on the RPT website in advance, especially if you have an early morning or late evening flight.

Taxis and Ridesharing (Uber, Lyft) are a fast and comfortable way to get to the terminal. The trip from the centre of Rochester to the airport takes just 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. This option is particularly convenient if you are travelling with bulky luggage or in a group. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than by bus, but this is compensated by the speed and "door-to-door" convenience.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to explore the surroundings. Counters for all leading rental companies operate at Rochester International Airport. You can easily return the car before departure by following the road signs to the Rental Car Return area. The route from the city centre is simple and does not take much time.

Airport Parking offers several options for those arriving by private vehicle. Directly opposite the terminal is short-term parking, ideal for quick drop-offs or picking up passengers. For those leaving their car for several days or weeks, long-term parking with more favourable daily rates is available. Both parking zones are within walking distance of the airport entrance.

If you are looking for more flight options, it is worth considering alternative air hubs. The nearest major hub airport is Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), located approximately 122 km away. It offers a significantly wider selection of flights. Additionally, there are other airports in the region, such as La Crosse Airport (LSE), which may prove convenient depending on your route.

Many hotels in Rochester also provide their guests with shuttle services to the airport, often free of charge. When booking accommodation, it is worth checking the availability and conditions of such transfers—this can be a very convenient and cost-effective solution.

Rochester International Airport (RST) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. The airport consists of one main terminal, which completely eliminates the need for complex transfers or the use of shuttles to move between different zones. Such compactness makes it ideal for those who value time and dislike the hustle and bustle of major aviation hubs.

The terminal layout is intuitive and logical. The building is divided into two main levels. The Ground Floor is designed for arriving passengers: here you will find baggage claim areas, car rental counters, as well as exits to taxis and other ground transport. The Second Floor is the departure zone. Here, airline check-in counters, the security checkpoint (TSA), and boarding gates are located, all grouped in one common concourse.

Thanks to the airport's small size, completing all pre-flight procedures usually does not take much time. Flight check-in and security screening typically proceed quickly and without long queues. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight to check luggage, pass through control, and reach your boarding gate without rushing.

Navigation through the terminal is extremely simple. Clear signs are installed everywhere, so getting lost is practically impossible. After passing through security, passengers enter a cosy waiting area with access to all boarding gates. There are small cafes, shops, and free Wi-Fi here, allowing you to spend time comfortably while waiting for your flight. The entire infrastructure of Rochester Airport is focused on maximum efficiency and traveller convenience.

The history of Rochester International Airport (RST) is inextricably linked with the development of the famous Mayo Clinic. The airport was founded in 1928, when brothers William and Charles Mayo acquired 127 hectares of land to create an airfield. The official opening took place in 1929, and it was initially intended to serve the needs of the clinic and its numerous patients and visitors.

In its early years, the airport was called Rochester Airport. An important milestone in its history was the period of World War II, when it was used as a training base for the USA Army Air Forces. This experience contributed to the modernisation of infrastructure, including runways and navigation equipment, laying the foundation for future growth.

The post-war years marked the beginning of the era of commercial transport. In 1945, Northwest Airlines launched the first scheduled passenger flights, connecting Rochester with other cities in the country. With the advent of the jet age in the 1960s, the airport underwent major reconstruction: the main runway was significantly lengthened to accommodate larger and faster aircraft, and the passenger terminal was expanded to handle the growing flow of travellers.

The key event that defined the airport's modern status occurred in 1995. After the opening of a federal customs post on its territory, it received international status and was renamed Rochester International Airport. This allowed it to receive direct flights from abroad, which was especially important for the international clientele of the Mayo Clinic. In subsequent decades, the terminal has been repeatedly modernised to meet modern standards of comfort and safety.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is its unofficial status as the "Gateway to the Mayo Clinic". It still plays a critically important role in medical logistics, serving many air ambulance and private flights with patients from all over the world. Additionally, Rochester Airport has repeatedly hosted aircraft carrying high-ranking guests, including US Presidents arriving in the city for visits.

Rochester International Airport (RST) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-thought-out to ensure your journey begins and ends with maximum convenience.

Within the airport, you will find a cafe-restaurant where you can have a snack before departure, as well as a shop offering souvenirs, press, and travel goods. Comfortable general lounges are provided for resting and waiting for your flight.

Staying connected is easy: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations allow you to charge your gadgets. ATMs are installed for financial transactions. If you need to exchange currency, it is recommended to check the availability of such a service in advance or use services in the city of Rochester.

For passengers with children, special mother and child rooms are equipped, and a barrier-free environment has been created for travellers with reduced mobility: ramps, lifts, specially equipped toilets, and the option to request assistance services. In case of need, you can visit the first aid station.

For business travellers, conference rooms or business services for holding meetings may be available. If you have an early departure or a long layover, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, offering comfortable accommodation and often shuttle services to the terminal.

Rochester International Airport (RST) is a compact and convenient airport where dining options are concentrated in one main establishment. Although the selection is not as vast as in major hubs, you can enjoy a full meal in a quiet atmosphere or grab a quick snack before departure.

The main place for food and drinks at the airport is the 331 Express restaurant and bar. It is conveniently located after passing security control (in the airside zone), directly by the boarding gates. Here, passengers are offered a menu with popular American dishes: sandwiches, burgers, salads, and soups. In the morning, you can order a hearty breakfast, and throughout the day—a full lunch or dinner. The bar menu includes beverages and spirits, allowing passengers to relax while waiting for their flight.

For those short on time, 331 Express also offers options for a quick snack, such as ready-made sandwiches, yoghurts, or pastries. Additionally, vending machines with snacks and soft drinks are installed in the airport building, available both in the public area before security (landside) and in the secure zone. Thus, if you wish to have a full lunch, it is best to head to the restaurant, while vending machine offerings will suffice for a light snack.

Regarding special dietary needs, the choice may be limited. It is recommended to check with the restaurant staff in advance regarding the availability of vegetarian or gluten-free options—typically, you can find salads or request a modification to a dish's ingredients. The opening hours of 331 Express are tied to the flight schedule: the establishment opens early in the morning and operates until the departure of the last aircraft. Prices are consistent with the average level for airports in the USA.

To ensure your journey through Rochester International Airport goes smoothly, make use of our tips. Although it is a relatively small and convenient airport, we recommend arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This time is sufficient to complete all pre-flight formalities without rushing, even during busy periods.

To save time, check in for your flight online via your airline's website or mobile app. This will allow you to head straight to the bag drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. Security procedures at airports in the USA are standard. If you have access to the TSA PreCheck programme, you will be able to pass through screening via an expedited procedure.

When packing hand luggage, remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: all containers must be 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less and packed in a single clear, zip-top bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin. Always check your airline's rules regarding the weight and dimensions of hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by personal preference: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. If you have a layover in Rochester, do not worry—thanks to the airport's compact size, changing gates will not take much time. Simply follow the signs and check information about your next flight on the monitors.

Passengers arriving on international flights will need to pass through customs and border control. Have your passport, visa, and completed customs declaration (if required) ready. Be prepared to answer the officer's questions about the purpose of your visit and the items you are bringing into the country.

Want to save money? Book airport parking online in advance—it is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security, and take your own snacks. This will help avoid extra expenses while waiting for your flight.

If your flight is delayed, first check the latest information in the airline's app. Rochester Airport has free Wi-Fi, cafes, and rest areas with power outlets for charging devices, where you can spend time comfortably. Do not hesitate to contact airline representatives to clarify the flight status and your rights in the event of a long delay.