Roswell International Air Center

Roswell International Air Center. Source: Kupi.com AI

Welcome to Roswell International Air Center — the aerial gateway to one of the most mysterious cities in the USA! This airport is not just a transport hub, but a part of the unique history of Roswell, world-famous for the 1947 "Roswell Incident". Although the airport today serves quite earthly flights, an atmosphere of mystery and proximity to the unknown is felt everywhere here, making the start of your journey truly intriguing.

Despite its modest size, Roswell's airport possesses unique features. Roswell International Air Center, located on the site of the former major Walker Air Force Base, boasts one of the longest runways in North America. This allows it to accept aircraft of practically all types. Although the airport bears the title "International", it currently serves only domestic flights, connecting Roswell with major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix. The dry climate has made it an ideal location for aircraft storage and preservation, turning the airport into a sort of "aircraft boneyard", where liners from many airlines, including the famous MD-80s of American Airlines, find their final resting place.

To contact representatives of Roswell International Air Center (ROW), you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.flyroswell.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (575) 347-7500
• Address: 1 Jerry Smith Circle, Roswell, NM 88203, USA
• Email: info@flyroswell.com
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on its official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, please contact your airline's representative directly. For items left in the terminal, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and support, you may call the airport's main telephone number.

Roswell International Air Center (ROW) is located just 10 kilometres south of the city centre, making the journey there quick and convenient. On average, a trip from the centre of Roswell to the terminal takes about 15 minutes, depending on the chosen mode of transport and traffic conditions.

Taxi and Ridesharing. The simplest and most predictable way to get to the airport is by taxi or services like Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in the city. The trip will cost approximately 15–25 US dollars. This is an excellent option if you are travelling with luggage or value comfort and speed. It is recommended to book a car in advance during peak hours.

Car Rental. For those planning to actively explore the surroundings of Roswell and the state of New Mexico, renting a car is the ideal solution. Many major rental companies have counters directly inside the airport building. You can pick up a car upon arrival or return it before departure. The road to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle is well-marked and will not cause difficulties.

Airport Parking. If you are travelling to the airport in a private vehicle, convenient parking is at your service. The territory features zones for both short-term and long-term parking at reasonable rates. This is a safe way to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Public Transport and Shuttles. Public transport options in small cities can be limited. Roswell has a bus system, but direct routes to the airport may be absent or run on an infrequent schedule. It is recommended to check information on the local carrier's official website in advance. Additionally, some hotels provide complimentary transfers for their guests — be sure to clarify this possibility when booking accommodation.

Roswell International Air Center (ROW) is a compact and convenient aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Travellers need not worry about complex navigation, as the airport is designed for maximum passenger convenience.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both departures and arrivals. Thanks to this, you will not have to move between different buildings. All infrastructure is located under one roof, making the travel process fast and carefree.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters, primarily American Eagle, are located. To the left or right of the entrance, depending on the layout, are the arrival area with the baggage claim belt and the departure area leading to the security checkpoint. Navigation is intuitive, and signs will help you orient yourself easily. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Check-in and security procedures at Roswell Airport are generally very fast compared to major international hubs. Due to the low passenger flow, queues here are a rarity. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing. The waiting area after security is small but comfortable for a short stay before the flight.

The history of Roswell International Air Center (ROW) is inextricably linked with US military aviation and one of the most mysterious events of the 20th century. The airport was founded in 1941 as Roswell Army Air Field. During World War II, it served as one of the largest training centres for pilots and bombardiers of the US Air Force.

The main historical event that made this place famous worldwide occurred in July 1947. It was from this base that the famous statement about the recovery of "flying disc" debris was made, which was later officially refuted and replaced by the version of a crashed weather balloon. This event, known as the "Roswell Incident", turned the city into the world capital of ufology and continues to attract thousands of tourists and researchers.

During the Cold War era, the base was renamed Walker Air Force Base and became a key facility of the Strategic Air Command. Heavy bombers, including the B-36 and B-52, as well as Atlas intercontinental ballistic missiles, were based here. This was the period of its maximum military significance. After the closure of the military base in 1967, the facility was transferred to the city and converted into an industrial air centre, and later — into a civilian airport.

Today, Roswell International Air Center is a unique combination of a passenger terminal and one of the world's largest "aircraft boneyards". Thanks to the dry climate and a very long runway inherited from the military, it is an ideal place for long-term storage and preservation of decommissioned liners. Many major global airlines send their aircraft here for "retirement" or temporary parking, creating a truly impressive spectacle.

Roswell International Air Center (ROW) is a compact and user-friendly aviation hub offering all necessary services for a comfortable start or end to a journey. Despite its modest size, the airport is well-equipped to meet basic passenger needs.

Dining and Shopping: A small café operates in the terminal where you can have a snack with sandwiches, pastries, and order hot or cold beverages before departure. There is also a shop selling travel essentials, souvenirs, and press. Given the unique fame of the city of Roswell, you can often find amusing alien-themed souvenirs here.

Comfort and Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for passengers, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for a flight. Charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas near the boarding gates.

Financial and Other Services: There are ATMs in the terminal building for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points are absent, so it is recommended to arrange money exchange in advance. For emergencies, the airport has provisions for first aid assistance.

Facilities for Passengers: The airport is fully adapted for travellers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and parking spaces. For passengers with small children, changing tables are equipped in the restrooms. There are no specialised VIP lounges or business centres at the airport, but the waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable.

Accommodation: Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, numerous hotels for every taste and budget are located just a few minutes' drive away in the city of Roswell, many of which offer transfer services for their guests.

When planning a snack or lunch at Roswell International Air Center (ROW), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport with a limited but cosy selection of establishments. Unlike major hubs, all options here are concentrated in one place, making navigation very simple.

The main and, essentially, the only place for dining at the airport is the Comet II Restaurant. This establishment is located in the main terminal building, in the area before passing security control (landside). This is a critically important point: if you wish to eat, do so before you proceed to the departure area, as there will be no dining options after security screening.

Comet II is a classic American diner offering guests hearty and simple dishes. Here you can order a full breakfast, sandwiches, burgers, and other traditional American meals. Given the location in New Mexico, do not miss the chance to try something with local flair — for example, dishes with the addition of the famous green or red chile. This is an excellent opportunity for a quick introduction to the state's cuisine.

Prices in the restaurant are quite moderate, especially compared to prices in major airports. Operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so the establishment is open to serve passengers of morning and daytime flights. Regarding special dietary requirements, the selection may be limited. Vegetarians might find simple options like salads or egg dishes, but for vegans, as well as for those looking for gluten-free or Halal dishes, the choice is practically non-existent. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them.

Thus, Comet II Restaurant is a versatile spot at Roswell Airport. It is suitable for both a quick snack like coffee with pastries and a full lunch before a flight. Just do not forget to eat before you go through security.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Roswell city goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, money, and nerves, making the start of your trip comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Roswell International Air Center (ROW) is small and usually not overcrowded. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your phone. Keep your ID and boarding pass ready at the airport. The screening procedure here is standard but usually proceeds faster than in major hubs.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If you want to enjoy the views during the flight, choose a window seat. If comfort, legroom, and the ability to stand up quickly without disturbing neighbours are important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage Rules. Standard TSA (Transportation Security Administration) rules apply here as well. All liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from the bag for screening. Sharp objects, such as knives and scissors (except for manicure ones), are prohibited in hand luggage.

For Connecting Passengers. Roswell Airport is not a major transfer hub. Most likely, your connection will be at a larger airport, for example, in Dallas or Phoenix. Immediately after landing, check the gate number for your next flight, as it may change.

Customs and Border Control. Since Roswell Airport serves primarily domestic flights, most passengers will not need to pass customs or border control. These procedures are relevant only for rare international charter flights.

How to Save Money. Book tickets and airport parking in advance if you are driving your own car. Travel light to avoid excess baggage fees. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security control, and light snacks — this is cheaper than buying them at the airport.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on flight status and possible alternatives. Clarify if the airline provides vouchers for meals or accommodation depending on the length of the delay. Although amenities in a small airport may be limited, there is a waiting area and basic services here.