| IATA Code | BFF |
| ICAO Code | KBFF |
| City | Scottsbluff |
| Distance to Centre | ~5 km |
| Status | Regional |
| Annual Passengers | About 30,000 |
| Schedule | Available on the official website |
Western Nebraska Regional Airport
About the Airport
Contact Information
If you need to contact the administration of Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF), you can use the following contact details. We recommend checking the official website for up-to-date information before your trip.
- Official Website: On the official portal www.flyscottsbluff.com, you will find flight schedules, passenger information, and the latest airport news.
- Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call +1 (308) 635-4942.
- Airport Address: 250023 Airport Terminal St, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, USA.
- Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website or call the information desk for communication.
- Social Media: You can follow airport news on its official page on Facebook.
- Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
- Passenger Support Contacts: For general enquiries and passenger assistance, please use the main airport information desk phone number.
How to Get to the Airport
Getting to Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF) from the city of Scottsbluff is effortless, as it is located just a few kilometres northeast of the centre. The journey usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes. The main ways to reach the terminal are by taxi, rental car, or private vehicle.
Taxi and Transfers. This is the simplest and most reliable way to get to the airport. Local taxi services operate in the city, and popular ride-hailing apps are also available. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early flight. The cost of a trip from the centre of Scottsbluff will be quite moderate, given the short distance.
Car Rental. For travellers who value independence and plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Nebraska, renting a car is the best solution. Counters for several major rental companies are located directly within the airport building. To guarantee availability and get a favourable rate, it is worth booking a car online in advance.
Airport Parking. If you arrive in your own or a rented car, convenient and affordable parking is at your disposal. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal, making access to it as quick as possible.
Public Transport. Please note that there is no direct bus or rail service to the airport. Public transport systems in small cities in the USA often have limited routes, so this option should not be considered for timely arrival for a flight.
To search for more flight options, travellers may also consider other airports in the region. Among them are Alliance Municipal Airport (approximately 69 km), Chadron Municipal Airport (115 km), Cheyenne Regional Airport (129 km), Laramie Regional Airport (General Brees Field) in Laramie (184 km), and Northern Colorado Regional Airport (Fort Collins-Loveland) (197 km).
Terminals and Map
Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF) is distinguished by an extremely simple and passenger-friendly structure. The entire complex consists of one compact terminal that serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its small size and thoughtful layout, orienting yourself here is very easy.
The terminal building is designed with maximum logic, making navigation intuitive. It is practically impossible to get lost here: check-in areas, security screening, departure lounges, and baggage claim are within walking distance of each other. Departure and arrival zones are located on the same level in a common hall, which significantly simplifies movement, especially for passengers with large luggage or limited mobility. As there is only one terminal, transfers between terminals are not required.
Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the main hall, where airline check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking luggage, passengers proceed to the single security checkpoint (TSA). Due to low passenger traffic, passing through control usually takes mere minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to clear all formalities calmly.
After security screening, passengers enter a small waiting area with boarding gates. For arriving travellers, the process is even simpler: after disembarking the aircraft, they immediately find themselves in the main terminal hall where the baggage claim belt is located. The entire path from the aircraft to the airport exit takes minimal time.
The main advice for travellers using the airport in Scottsbluff is to enjoy the absence of the hustle and bustle typical of large aviation hubs. Compactness and simplicity are the key advantages of this airport, ensuring a quick and comfortable start or end to your journey across the USA.
Airport History
The history of Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF), also known as William B. Heilig Field, is closely tied to key events of the 20th century in the USA. The airport was officially opened in 1940 as the municipal airport of the city of Scottsbluff, built under the WPA (Works Progress Administration) programme. However, its peaceful purpose soon changed: with the country's entry into World War II, it was transferred to the US Army Air Forces and became known as Scottsbluff Army Airfield. Crews for light bombers and fighters were trained here, making a significant contribution to the country's war efforts.
After the war ended, the airfield returned to civil use and began a new chapter of its development. Regular passenger service, started even before the war by Inland Air Lines, was continued by Western Airlines, and then for many years, Frontier Airlines became the main carrier. These stages marked the transformation of the airport into an important transport hub for the vast rural region serving western Nebraska, eastern Wyoming, and northeastern Colorado.
Over the years, the airport has been modernised repeatedly to meet the growing demands of aviation. In the 1970s, a new passenger terminal was built, replacing the original structures. In subsequent decades, large-scale reconstructions of runways and taxiways were carried out, allowing the accommodation of more modern types of aircraft. These projects helped the airport maintain its status as the reliable aerial gateway of the region.
One of the interesting facts in the airport's history is its name. The airfield bears the name of William B. Heilig, a local pilot and aviation enthusiast who played a key role in its establishment. Although the official name today is Western Nebraska Regional Airport, Heilig's name is immortalised in the name of the airfield (William B. Heilig Field). This dual identity—from a military base to a modern civil hub named after a local hero—makes the airport's history truly unique and reflects its deep connection with the community.
Services and Amenities
Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF) offers passengers a set of essential services to make waiting for a flight comfortable. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Charging stations for electronic devices are also provided for travellers' convenience.
You can have a snack or drink coffee in a small café located in the terminal building. The selection of shops is limited, but you can purchase snacks and drinks for the road here. ATMs are installed in the terminal; however, please note that there are no specialised currency exchange bureaus. It is best to complete all financial transactions in advance.
Although there are no separate VIP lounges at the airport, comfortable and clean waiting areas are equipped for all passengers. The airport is fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility and complies with ADA standards. Staff assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking. For families with small children, there are baby changing tables in the restrooms.
There are no hotels or business centres on the airport grounds. The nearest hotels and facilities for business meetings are located in the city of Scottsbluff, just a few minutes' drive away. In case first aid is required, passengers should contact any airport employee.
Where to Eat
Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF) is a small and compact airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but sufficient to satisfy basic traveller needs. When planning a snack or lunch, it is important to consider that the main infrastructure is located before the security control zone.
In the main terminal building, there is typically one main establishment operating—a small café or grill bar. It serves all passengers and airport visitors. Here you can find classic American dishes: coffee, pastries, and sandwiches are served for breakfast, and during lunch hours—burgers, salads, and hot snacks. This is the only place in the airport where you can have a full meal, so if you are hungry, it is better to do so before passing through security (landside). After security control (airside), the selection is usually limited to vending machines with drinks and snacks.
The café's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule—it opens shortly before the first morning departure and closes after the last evening flight departs. Prices can be described as moderate for an airport. Regarding special dietary needs, the choice here is extremely small. Vegetarians may find a salad or a meat-free sandwich; however, for vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or Halal dishes, suitable options will likely not be available. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are strongly advised to bring food with them or dine before travelling to the airport.
Tips for Travellers
To ensure your journey through Western Nebraska Regional Airport in the city of Scottsbluff goes smoothly, follow these tips. Thoughtful planning will help avoid stress and make the start of your trip pleasant.
Arrival and Check-in: Since this is a small regional airport, you do not need to arrive many hours before departure. As a rule, arriving at the airport 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight will be quite sufficient. To save time, check in for your flight online in advance and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone.
Security and Hand Luggage: Security screening procedures at the airport comply with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) standards applicable throughout the USA. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: all liquids, gels, and aerosols in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Always keep valuables, documents, medication, and electronics in your hand luggage. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons.
Seat Selection and Transfers: When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely. For faster disembarkation, choose seats in the front part of the cabin. Flights from this airport are usually connecting flights via major hubs such as Denver. Ensure you have enough time for the transfer at the next airport and study its layout in advance.
Customs Control: It is important to know that Western Nebraska Regional Airport does not service international flights. This means there is no customs or passport control upon arrival or departure. The only check you undergo is the TSA security screening before boarding a domestic flight.
Saving Money and Flight Delays: To save money, book tickets in advance and consider bringing light snacks with you, as the selection at the airport may be limited and expensive. In case of a flight delay, monitor information on the departure boards and in your airline's app. Contact an airline representative at the counter for current information and possible options. Since the airport is small, have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films on your device to pass the waiting time.
Airports in nearby cities
- Denver International Airport
- Rapid City Regional Airport
- Eagle County Airport
- Casper/Natrona County International Airport
- Campbell County Airport
- Barnstable Municipal Airport
- General Brees Field
- Lee Bird Field
- Cheyenne
- McCook Airport
- Fort Collins–Loveland Municipal Airport
- Chadron Airport
- Centennial Airport
- Cheyenne (F.E. Warren AFB H/P)
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