Savannah/Hilton Head Airport

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is not just a transport hub, but a true gateway to the world of Southern hospitality in the state of Georgia. Located on the border of two states, it serves both historic Savannah and the resort destination of Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. The airport is renowned for its cosy atmosphere and thoughtful design, reflecting the charm and elegance of the region, which has repeatedly earned it the title of one of the best airports in the USA. A unique and touching feature of the airport is the memorial plaques embedded directly into one of the runways—a tribute to the family on whose land it was partially built.

Passengers appreciate Savannah/Hilton Head Airport for its compactness, cleanliness, and ease of navigation. Despite its relatively small size, it offers an excellent selection of shops and dining outlets where you can taste local cuisine. Inside the terminal, a calm and friendly atmosphere prevails, making the wait for your flight pleasant and comfortable. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is a key point for travellers wishing to explore the historical heritage of Savannah and enjoy a beach holiday on Hilton Head Island.

• Official Website: savannahairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (912) 964-0514
• Address: 400 Airways Ave, Savannah, GA 31408, USA
• Email: To contact airport representatives, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow airport updates and news on its official pages on Facebook and Instagram.
• Lost and Found: If you have lost personal items in the public areas of the airport, please contact the Lost and Found office at +1 (912) 964-7575. In case of lost luggage or items on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information, enquiries, and assistance, you can call the main airport information desk number.

Getting to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) from the city centre of Savannah and its surroundings is possible in several ways, allowing travellers to choose the most suitable option depending on budget, time, and level of comfort.

Public Transport is the most economical method. The bus route 100X Airport Express, operated by Chatham Area Transit (CAT), provides a direct connection between the airport and the transit centre in the historic part of the city. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, and the ticket cost is minimal, making it an excellent choice for budget tourists.

Taxis and Ridesharing (Uber, Lyft) offer a faster and more convenient way to reach the terminal. A trip from the centre of Savannah will take about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is an ideal option if you are travelling with bulky luggage or simply value comfort and personal space. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but it ensures door-to-door service.

Many hotels in the city provide their guests with free or paid shuttles to the airport. It is recommended to check the availability of such a service when booking accommodation. You can also use the services of private transfer companies, which are particularly convenient for large groups.

If you have travelled around the state of Georgia in a rental car, you can easily return it at the airport. Counters for all leading rental agencies are located here. For those driving to the airport in their own vehicle, various parking options are provided: from hourly parking right by the terminal to more affordable long-term and economy car parks, from where free shuttle buses run to the terminal building.

Regardless of the chosen method, it is recommended to leave in advance, especially during peak hours, to complete check-in and security control without haste before departing from hospitable Savannah.

International Airport Savannah/Hilton Head (SAV) is distinguished by a well-thought-out and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Such an organisation significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal has two main levels. On the ground floor, the arrivals area is located. Here you will find baggage claim belts, car rental counters, as well as exits to taxis, shuttles, and other modes of ground transport. The second floor is entirely dedicated to the departures area. Here you will find airline check-in counters, self-service kiosks, and the central security checkpoint.

After passing through screening, passengers enter a spacious and bright atrium, which provides access to a single concourse with all boarding gates. All gates are located along one long hall, making movement to the required exit intuitively clear. Thanks to the airport's compact dimensions, you will not have to spend much time walking from the screening area to the furthest gate.

Check-in and screening procedures at Savannah Airport usually proceed quite quickly compared to major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight, especially during peak morning hours or on public holidays. For international flights, it is worth allowing more time. In general, navigating the airport will not cause difficulties even for those here for the first time, thanks to clear signage and a logical layout.

The history of Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) dates back to 1929, when it was opened as a municipal airfield named Hunter Field. From the very beginning, it played an important role in the development of aviation in the region, but its fate changed dramatically with the onset of World War II. In 1940, the facility was transferred to the US Army Air Corps and transformed into a major base for training B-26 and B-29 bomber crews, receiving a new name — Chatham Field.

It was during the war years that one of the most unusual episodes in the airport's history occurred. During the expansion of the runway, it was necessary to relocate a local cemetery. However, the descendants of Richard and Catherine Dotson, buried here in the late 19th century, refused to grant permission for the transfer of their ancestors' remains. As a result, a unique decision was made: two grave markers were embedded directly into the surface of Runway 10/28. These tombstones remain in place today, making SAV perhaps the only airport in the world with graves on the runway.

After the war, in 1948, the airfield returned to civilian management and was renamed Travis Field Airport in honour of Savannah native, General Robert Travis. In 1962, a new passenger terminal was built to cope with the growing flow of travellers. However, the real breakthrough occurred in 1994, when a modern terminal with an area of more than 25,000 square metres was opened. Its architecture was inspired by the famous historic squares of Savannah, creating a feeling among passengers of being in this cosy southern city even before leaving the terminal building.

In 2003, the airport received its current name — Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, to emphasise its proximity to the popular resort island of Hilton Head in South Carolina. Today, it is a modern and award-winning airport that not only serves millions of passengers a year but also preserves its amazing and multifaceted history.

Savannah/Hilton Head Airport (SAV) is designed with passenger comfort in mind and offers a full range of services to make your stay here as convenient as possible. Whether you are arriving for business or leisure, you will find everything necessary for a peaceful wait for your flight.

The terminal features a wide selection of dining establishments: from cafés with quick snacks and aromatic coffee to restaurants where you can have a leisurely lunch. Shops offer travellers souvenirs, goods with local flair, books, as well as travel essentials. Here you can easily find gifts for loved ones or mementos of your trip.

For those for whom staying connected or working is important, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous gadget charging stations are located in the waiting areas, so your device will always be ready for use. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms are provided where meetings can be held or work can be done in silence.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can use the VIP lounge services. Families with small children will appreciate the availability of specially equipped mother and child rooms. The airport is fully adapted to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and special restrooms ensuring unobstructed movement throughout the terminal.

Financial matters can be easily resolved at the airport thanks to the presence of ATMs and currency exchange points. In case of necessity, passengers can seek first aid at the medical station located within the terminal territory.

If you have an early departure, late arrival, or a long layover, there are several hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport. This is an excellent opportunity to rest in comfort without spending time and energy travelling to the city and back.

At Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), travellers will find a decent selection of establishments where they can have a snack before departure or a full lunch. The dining options reflect the hospitable spirit of the Southern USA and offer both quick bites and dishes with local flavour.

Most cafés and restaurants are located in the secure area, after passing security control. Here passengers can relax while waiting for their flight. Among the establishments for a full meal, grill bars such as PGA TOUR Grill or Southbound Taphouse stand out. In their menus, you can often find American cuisine classics: burgers, sandwiches, salads, as well as Southern dishes, for example, shrimp with mushrooms or crab cakes. Here you can also order various refreshing beverages. This is an excellent choice for those who have time for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

For a quick snack, chain cafés and food courts are ideal. The airport typically features giants such as Starbucks, where you can get coffee and pastries, and Burger King for fast food lovers. Special attention should be paid to kiosks with local delicacies. For example, at Savannah Airport, you can find the famous Leopold's Ice Cream — be sure to try it if you have the chance. In the food court area, there is also a pizzeria and counters with sandwiches and salads.

Before security control (in the public area), the choice is generally more limited and usually consists of a coffee shop and vending machines with drinks and snacks. Therefore, it is better to plan your main meal after screening.

Regarding special dietary needs, in most restaurants, you can ask for a dish to be prepared without certain ingredients. Vegetarians will easily find salads, vegetable sandwiches, or snacks on the menu. With gluten-free and vegan options, it might be more difficult, however, the staff are usually ready to help and suggest possible variants. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city; expect a medium to above-average price range. Most establishments open early in the morning and work until the departure of the last flight, but operating hours may vary.

To ensure your journey through Savannah/Hilton Head Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these tips. When planning a departure from Savannah, arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before domestic flights within the USA and at least 3 hours before international ones. This time will be enough to go through all procedures without haste, especially during peak seasons and holidays.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, directly to the security checkpoint. At security control, be ready to present your boarding pass and identification. All electronics (laptops, tablets) must be removed from bags, and liquids packed in accordance with regulations (in containers up to 100 ml).

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will give you beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat offers the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Regarding hand luggage, remember restrictions on carrying liquids and sharp objects. Check the current rules on your airline's website, as weight and size allowances may differ.

If you have a connecting flight, study the airport map in advance and check the gate number for your next flight. Savannah/Hilton Head Airport is quite compact, making transit convenient. Upon arrival on an international flight, you will have to go through customs and passport control. Have your passport and completed declaration (if required) ready. After this, you can collect your luggage and pass through customs inspection.

To save money, book parking online in advance — it is often cheaper than paying on the spot. Take an empty reusable water bottle with you to fill it after passing security, along with light snacks. This will help avoid extra expenses while waiting for your flight.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to find out about the flight status and possible options (for example, rebooking or compensation). Savannah/Hilton Head Airport has free Wi-Fi, cafés, and shops that will help pass the waiting time. Check the status of your departure in advance on the airport or airline website to avoid unpleasant surprises.