MBS International Airport

MBS International Airport is not just an air gateway, but a vital transport hub serving three cities in the state of Michigan simultaneously: Midland, Bay City, and Saginaw. Its name is an acronym for these cities (Midland, Bay City, Saginaw). Located in the community of Freeland, it provides convenient access to the entire Great Lakes Bay Region in the USA. The airport plays a key role in the region's economic life, providing jobs for over 400 people.

Despite its relatively small size, MBS Airport offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable journey. There is a modern, convenient terminal, cafes, shops, and free Wi-Fi. The airport is known for its full-service operations, offering regular flights to major hubs such as Chicago (ORD) and Detroit (DTW), from where you can fly to virtually anywhere in the world. One of the modern features is the installation of Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) at the TSA security checkpoint, which speeds up the document verification process and reduces contact.

To ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible, save the contact information for MBS International Airport. Here you will find all the necessary details to get in touch with airport representatives.

• Official Website: www.mbsairport.org
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (989) 695-5555
• Address: 9200 Garfield Rd, Freeland, MI 48623, USA
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: Current information and news can be tracked on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact airport security at +1 (989) 695-5555. For luggage lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and consultations, you can call the main airport phone number.

Getting to MBS International Airport from the city of Saginaw is quite simple, as it is located just 15-20 kilometers from the center. A trip by car usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Travelers have several transport options available, allowing them to choose the most convenient and budget-friendly method.

Public transport in the USA, especially in smaller cities, may not be as developed as in other regions. Direct bus or train routes from downtown Saginaw to the airport may be absent or run with long intervals. This is the most budget-friendly method, but it requires careful planning. It is recommended to check schedules on local transport service websites in advance to verify the availability and relevance of routes to the airport.

Taxis and ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. This is a comfortable "door-to-door" option, ideal for travelers with luggage or those who value their time. A trip from downtown Saginaw will cost approximately $30-50, but the price may vary depending on demand and time of day. You can also pre-book a private transfer or shuttle, guaranteeing a car at your required time.

Car rental is an excellent choice for those planning not only a trip to the airport but also further travel around the Great Lakes region. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at MBS Airport. You can rent a car in the city and return it directly at the airport before departure, providing maximum flexibility and freedom of movement.

For those driving to the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking options are provided. MBS Airport has both short-term parking for quick passenger drop-off and pick-up, and long-term lots for those leaving their car for the duration of their trip. Rates depend on the duration of parking. It is best to check current information on costs and availability on the official airport website.

When planning your trip, it is also worth considering alternative airports in the region, which may offer more flights or better prices. The nearest option is Bishop Airport (FNT) in Flint, located approximately 70 km away. Slightly further are Capital Region International Airport (LAN) in Lansing (about 93 km) and the larger Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids (about 138 km). Although the journey to them will take more time, checking ticket prices from these airports can be very useful.

MBS International Airport is a compact and modern air terminal serving the Great Lakes region in Michigan. Its key feature is simplicity and convenience for passengers, making travel through it as comfortable as possible.

The airport consists of one main passenger terminal, which completely eliminates confusion with transfers and connections. All infrastructure — from check-in counters to boarding gates — is located in one building. Thanks to its small size and logical layout, navigation through the terminal is intuitive. Clear signs are installed everywhere, so getting lost here is practically impossible.

Departure and arrival zones are located in close proximity to each other. After entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the check-in area where airline counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security checkpoint. After control, you will find yourself in the secure area with several boarding gates, a small cafe, and a souvenir shop.

One of the main advantages of MBS Airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in large international hubs. typically, this takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during peak hours.

The history of MBS International Airport dates back to the years of World War II. It was opened in 1943 as a US Army airbase where pilots were trained. After the war ended, the facility was transferred to civilian use and became a key transport hub for the city of Saginaw and its surroundings.

The airport received its unique name, MBS, for a reason. This abbreviation symbolizes the three cities for which it was originally created to serve: Midland (M), Bay City (B), and Saginaw (S). This interesting fact highlights the airport's role as a unifying center for the entire Great Lakes region in Michigan.

A key stage in the airport's recent history was the opening of a modern terminal in 2012. This large-scale project radically transformed the air harbor and raised the level of passenger comfort to new heights. The new terminal, designed with future needs in mind, offered travelers spacious waiting areas, jet bridges, and improved infrastructure, allowing the airport to meet the highest service standards.

Throughout its history, MBS Airport has been regularly modernized to keep up with the times and ensure a high level of security. Today, it remains an important economic and transport asset for central Michigan, connecting it with major hubs across the country and offering residents and guests of the region convenient access to air travel.

MBS International Airport offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience for both business travelers and tourists.

Inside the terminal, you will find a cafe where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments before departure. There is also a shop offering souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. For those who need to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting areas near the boarding gates.

MBS Airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility and complies with all modern accessibility standards. Travelers can request escort services and wheelchair provision. For families with small children, there are special nursing rooms and changing tables in the restrooms. ATMs are also installed in the terminal for cash withdrawals; however, currency exchange points are typically absent in regional airports of this type.

Although the airport does not have specialized VIP lounges or business centers, comfortable waiting areas allow you to spend time conveniently before boarding. If you need to stay overnight, there are several hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests.

When planning a flight through MBS International Airport, it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport, and dining options here are limited. The main opportunities for a snack or a full meal are concentrated in two zones: before and after passing security control.

For those who have time for a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the Three Rivers Restaurant and Lounge operates in the main terminal area, before security (landside). This is the main and essentially the only restaurant in the airport, offering classic American dishes: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and hot breakfasts. A beverage service area is also available here. Typically, the restaurant opens a few hours before the first morning flight and operates throughout the day, making it an ideal place for a leisurely meal. Since it is located in the public area, it can be visited by both passengers and those seeing them off.

After passing security control (airside), directly in the departure area, the choice is limited to a small cafeteria. Here you can grab a quick snack before boarding your flight. The assortment usually includes ready-made sandwiches, snacks (chips, chocolate), pastries, as well as coffee, tea, and soft drinks. This option is suitable for those in a hurry or wishing to take something on board. The cafeteria's operating hours are tied to the flight schedule: it opens before the first departures and closes after the last plane departs.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) should be prepared for a limited selection. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes directly with the staff or carry suitable snacks with you. The price range in the airport establishments is average, which is typical for such transport hubs in the USA. Although the airport serves cities like Saginaw, one should not expect a wide representation of local cuisine — the menu is oriented towards universal and popular items.

Planning a trip through MBS International Airport in Saginaw? These tips will help make your trip as comfortable and predictable as possible. Even though MBS is a small and convenient airport where long queues are rare, we recommend arriving early. For domestic flights within the USA, it is sufficient to arrive 90 minutes before departure. If you have an international flight (usually with a connection at a major hub), allow at least 2-3 hours to complete all formalities without rushing.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are traveling light, to the security checkpoint. To get through it even faster, prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance, and remove all large electronic devices and liquid containers from your carry-on luggage. MBS Airport participates in the TSA PreCheck program, which allows for expedited screening.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: window seats offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and freedom of movement around the cabin. For a quick exit upon arrival, choose seats in the front part of the aircraft. When packing carry-on luggage, remember the rules: all liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited.

Most flights from MBS involve transfers at major hub airports such as Detroit (DTW) or Chicago (ORD). At check-in, clarify with the airline staff whether your luggage will be checked through automatically to your final destination. If you are flying to another country, you will likely go through customs and passport control at the last airport of departure from the USA. Upon arriving in Saginaw from abroad on a direct flight (which happens rarely), you will have to go through customs control directly at MBS Airport.

There are several ways to save time and money. Book flight tickets and airport parking in advance — this way you will get the best prices. Do not hesitate to bring permitted snacks with you to avoid spending on food at the airport. Instead of a taxi, consider options with ridesharing services (Uber/Lyft) or a pre-booked transfer, which is often more cost-effective.

Flight delays happen, and it is important to know what to do. Before leaving for the airport, check your flight status on the airline's website. In case of delay or cancellation, contact the airline representative to learn about your rights and possible options — rebooking, provision of meals, or hotel accommodation. MBS Airport itself has free Wi-Fi, areas for rest and device charging, as well as several cafes where you can comfortably wait for your flight.