Union (Union County)

Union County Airport (also known as Troy Shelton Field) is not merely a transport hub, but a true "aerial gateway" to the picturesque heart of South Carolina. Here, you will not find the hustle and bustle of giant terminals; instead, travellers are welcomed by an atmosphere of Southern hospitality and the romance of private aviation. This cosy airfield serves as an ideal starting point for amateur pilots and business people wishing to avoid queues and immediately immerse themselves in business or leisure. Located amidst greenery, it offers a tranquil alternative to major hubs while remaining within easy reach of the region's business centres.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Union County Airport (Troy Shelton Field) is focused exclusively on General Aviation, making it a unique facility for specific categories of travellers. Private jets are based here, training flights are conducted, and business-class charter flights are serviced.

The main advantage is the absolute absence of queues and bureaucratic delays typical of large airport terminals. Pilots and passengers appreciate the high-quality asphalt runway, which is over 1,000 metres long, as well as the availability of 24-hour refuelling. Thanks to its location, the airport serves as a convenient starting point for exploring natural attractions, including the nearby Sumter National Forest.

• Official Airport Website: Information about the airport can be found on the official Union County, SC government website under the departments section.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 864-429-1680 (Airport Administration)
• Airport Address: 198 Airport Rd, Union, SC 29379, USA
• Email: For inquiries regarding airport operations, you may use the address rwade@countyofunion.com.
• Social Media: Current regional news and notifications are published on the official "Union County SC Government" pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: As the airport primarily serves private aviation and does not have baggage claim belts, in case of lost items within the terminal, please contact the administration directly via phone or email.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support is provided by airport administration staff during working hours (Mon-Fri).

Since Union County Airport (Troy Shelton Field) is a general aviation facility and does not serve scheduled commercial flights, the methods of reaching it differ from travelling to major international hubs. There are no familiar express trains or scheduled shuttles here. The primary mode of transport in this region of South Carolina is the automobile.

Below are the main transport options for pilots, their guests, and travellers planning a visit to this cosy aviation corner.

Private Car and Taxi

A car remains the most reliable and fastest way to reach the airport. The airfield is located just a couple of kilometres from the centre of Union and approximately 45–50 kilometres southeast of the larger city of Spartanburg.

• From Union City Centre: The drive will take just 5–7 minutes. The route runs via Industrial Park Road or US-176.
• From Spartanburg: The journey takes about 40–50 minutes via highway US-176 E. This is a scenic route passing through small settlements.
• Taxi and Ridesharing: Popular ride-hailing services (such as Uber or Lyft) operate in the region, although waiting times for a car may be longer than in metropolises. The cost of a trip from the centre of Union is approximately $10–15, and from Spartanburg — from $50 to $70 one way.

Public Transport

It is important to note that direct public transport connections (metro, commuter trains, or scheduled buses) to Union County Airport do not exist. The railway network in the USA rarely connects small regional airfields with cities. The nearest intercity bus stops are located in the county's larger towns, so relying exclusively on public transport when planning a route to the aircraft steps is not recommended.

Car Rental

For comfortable travel around South Carolina, renting a car is the best solution. Since the airport itself is small, rental agency counters directly in the terminal may operate on a limited schedule or be absent (cars often need to be ordered in advance for delivery upon arrival). It is recommended to book a car in major neighbouring cities or arrange a transfer with the airport administration.

Airport Parking

One of the main advantages of general aviation is the simplicity of parking. Union County Airport features an open parking zone. Typically, no fee is charged for short-term and long-term parking here, and vacant spaces are always available in the immediate vicinity of the administrative building and the airfield. This eliminates the need to search for a spot for a long time or carry luggage over great distances.

Alternative Airports Nearby

If you plan to fly into the region on a commercial flight and then reach Union by car, it is most convenient to use the major air hubs nearby. The closest is Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, located approximately 58 km away. This is the main hub for those heading to Spartanburg and the surrounding areas.

For international flights, travellers often choose Charlotte Douglas International Airport (about 87 km), offering a huge selection of flights. Also located within a one-and-a-half to two-hour drive are Columbia Metropolitan Airport (95 km) and Asheville Regional Airport (117 km), which is convenient for those wishing to combine their trip with a visit to the mountains. Slightly further, at a distance of about 149 km, lies Augusta Regional Airport.

Unlike large international hubs with their confusing labyrinths of passageways, Union County Airport (USC) is designed to be as simple and functional as possible. There are no multiple terminals designated by letters or numbers here. The entire airport infrastructure is centred around one main administrative building (the General Aviation terminal), which serves both pilots and passengers of private flights.

Terminal Features and Amenities

The terminal building is a cosy single-storey structure where comfortable conditions for short waits have been created. Inside, you will not find Duty-Free shops or noisy food courts; however, there is everything necessary for flight preparation or rest after landing:

• Lounge Area: A comfortable space with soft furnishings where pilots and passengers can relax, use free Wi-Fi, or have a coffee.
• Flight Planning Room: A specialised room equipped with computers for checking weather and filing flight plans.
• Sanitary Facilities: Clean and accessible restrooms.
• Conference Room: A small space that can be used for business meetings or briefings before departure.

Airport Map and Departure Zones

Navigation around the territory is intuitive. The airport layout includes one runway and an apron for aircraft parking, located directly in front of the terminal building.

The "arrival" and "departure" zones here are not separated by solid walls or passport control. Boarding takes place directly from the administrative building lobby onto the airfield. The distance from the terminal door to the steps of your aircraft is only a few dozen metres, which completely eliminates the need for buses or jet bridges.

Check-in and Screening

One of the key features of Union County Airport is the absence of the usual security screening queues (TSA) typical of commercial air travel. This radically changes the approach to time planning:

• Arrival Time: You do not need to arrive 2–3 hours before departure. Usually, arriving 15–20 minutes before the scheduled take-off time is sufficient to meet the pilot and load luggage.
• Procedures: Formalities are kept to a minimum. If you are flying on a private flight, document checks are carried out directly by the aircraft captain or FBO (Fixed Base Operator) staff.
• Luggage: You personally supervise the loading of your belongings onto the aircraft, which eliminates the risk of them being lost or sent on another flight.

Navigation Recommendations

For those visiting this airfield for the first time, the advice is simple: aim for the main building with the car park. The entrance to the terminal is clearly visible from the approach road, Airport Road. If you are meeting arrivals, you can wait for them either in the lobby or (with staff permission) at the edge of the apron, watching the aircraft land in close proximity. The airport staff are noted for their friendliness and are always ready to suggest where to park your car or how to get to the required aircraft.

The history of Union County Airport (USC) is inextricably linked with the economic and industrial development of this corner of South Carolina. Unlike major passenger hubs built on a grand scale from the start, this airfield developed organically, responding to the growing needs of local aviation and business. Its emergence was a response to the need to connect the city of Union and its surroundings with the rest of the country via a faster route than roads or railways.

Foundation and Establishment

Active development of the airfield began in the second half of the 20th century, when the region was experiencing an industrial boom associated with the textile industry. Initially, it was a modest airstrip intended for small piston aircraft. An important milestone in the airport's history was its naming as Troy Shelton Field. This is a tribute to a local statesman who put considerable effort into attracting funding and developing the county's transport infrastructure. Thanks to his initiatives, the airport ceased to be merely a field for enthusiasts and turned into a fully-fledged transport facility.

Modernisation Stages

Over the decades, the airport has gone through several significant stages of reconstruction. A key moment was the asphalt paving and extension of the runway. This allowed for the accommodation not only of light training aircraft but also of turboprop liners and small business jets. The ability to land corporate aircraft became an important factor in attracting investors to the Spartanburg and Union region.

In the early 2000s and subsequent years, the administration focused on improving safety and comfort. Works were carried out on:

• Installing modern navigational lighting equipment, making safe flights possible during hours of darkness.
• Renovating the terminal building to ensure comfortable waiting conditions for pilots and passengers.
• Constructing new hangars for storing private aircraft, which attracted more aircraft owners to base themselves here.

Role in Community Life

Although Union County Airport has not set world records for passenger traffic, its main achievement is its accident-free operation and reliability over many years. An interesting fact from the airport's life is its active use for social needs. The airfield often serves as a venue for educational programmes introducing young people to aviation, and is also a vital link for emergency medical services, allowing patients to be transported rapidly to major medical centres in the state.

Today, Troy Shelton Field retains the spirit of "old school" aviation, combining it with modern service standards, remaining a living monument to the development of transport in South Carolina.

The infrastructure of Union County Airport (USC) differs significantly from what passengers are accustomed to at major international hubs. As this is a general aviation facility, there are no endless rows of shops or noisy waiting halls here. Services and amenities are designed to ensure maximum comfort and efficiency for pilots and private flight passengers who value their time.

Dining and Shops

There are no full-service restaurants, cafes, or Duty-Free shops in the terminal. Travellers are offered basic service: vending machines with light snacks and soft drinks are usually available in the lobby. Often, free hot coffee and water are provided for guests and crews. If you are planning a substantial meal, it is recommended to visit the city of Union, located just a few minutes' drive away, where there is a selection of local diners and chain restaurants.

Lounges and Business Services

The terminal building essentially functions as a single VIP lounge. A calm atmosphere for work and rest has been created here:

• Lounge Zone: A comfortable space with soft sofas and armchairs, a television, and magazines, where you can relax before departure.
• Connectivity: Free high-speed Wi-Fi operates throughout the terminal. Finding a free socket to charge a laptop or smartphone is not difficult — they are located in convenient places in the waiting area.
• Conference Room: For business travellers, a meeting room is provided, which can be used for meetings immediately after arrival or for pre-flight briefings.
• Flight Planning: A separate area with computers is equipped for pilots to access meteorological data and navigation charts.

Financial and Medical Services

There are no currency exchange points, ATMs, or bank branches in the airport building. It is recommended to arrange for cash in advance or use ATMs in the city. Also, there is no medical centre or pharmacy on the premises. In case of an emergency, staff call the city emergency services, and the nearest hospitals are located in the city of Union.

Services for Passengers with Children and Special Needs

Thanks to its compactness and single-storey layout, Union County Airport is extremely convenient for all categories of passengers:

• For Citizens with Reduced Mobility: The absence of stairs, escalators, and long walkways makes movement in a wheelchair unobstructed. The path from the car park to the aircraft is minimal. Airport staff are always ready to provide personal assistance during boarding and disembarkation.
• For Passengers with Children: There are no specialised playrooms or mother-and-child rooms here, but the calm environment and lack of crowds allow for comfortable time spent with children in the general waiting hall. Restrooms are spacious and maintained in a clean condition.

Accommodation (Hotels)

There are no hotels within the airport territory itself. Since the airfield is in immediate proximity to the city, finding accommodation is not a problem. The nearest accommodation options are located in Union (5–10 minutes by taxi), where classic American motels and small hotels (e.g., Quality Inn or Days Inn) are represented. For those seeking a higher level of service and a wider selection of branded hotels, the best solution would be a trip to the neighbouring city of Spartanburg, the journey to which will take about 40–50 minutes.

It is important to immediately note the specific nature of Union County Airport (USC): since it is a general aviation facility, there is no classic food court zone with restaurants, bars, and cafes that passengers of major commercial terminals are used to. You will not find chain coffee shops or fast-food restaurants directly in the building.

Nevertheless, it is difficult to stay hungry here if you know the specifics of private flight servicing and the local geography. Below is a detailed guide to organising meals for pilots and travellers arriving at Troy Shelton Field.

Dining within the Terminal (FBO)

In the airport's single administrative building (Main Terminal / FBO), options for a snack are limited but sufficient for a short stop:

• Coffee and Drinks: Freshly brewed coffee, tea, cool water, and ice are almost always available in the crew and passenger rest area (Lobby). This is a complimentary service that is a standard of Southern hospitality.
• Light Snacks: Vending machines are installed in the lobby where you can buy crisps, chocolate bars, nuts, biscuits, and carbonated drinks. This is the main option for a "quick snack" on site.
• Catering for Departures: If you are departing on a private jet, catering is usually ordered in advance through the ground handling operator. Local restaurants in the city of Union often cooperate with the airport and can deliver ordered dishes (from sandwiches to full meals) directly to the aircraft steps at the appointed time.

Where to Eat Nearby: Union Gastronomy

For a full lunch or dinner, it is necessary to leave the airport territory. A trip to Union city centre (Main Street and surroundings) will take just 5–7 minutes by car. This is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the authentic cuisine of the American South.

What to Try (Local Cuisine):

South Carolina is famous for its culinary traditions. In local establishments (Diners and BBQ Joints), we recommend looking for the following on the menu:

• Southern BBQ: Slow-cooked pork (pulled pork). Pay attention to the sauces: a mustard-based sauce ("Carolina Gold") is popular in this region, giving the meat a piquant sweet-and-sour taste. (Note: Pork is the standard BBQ meat here).
• Grits: A traditional side dish made of corn porridge, often served with shrimp (Shrimp and Grits) or cheese.
• Hushpuppies: Deep-fried balls of corn dough, an ideal accompaniment to fish or meat.
• Sweet Tea: A mandatory drink with any meal in the South, usually served with ice.

Recommendations by Establishment Type:

In the city of Union, affordable establishments with an average bill of $10–20 per person predominate:

• Family Restaurants and Diners: Large portions of comfort food (burgers, steaks, fried chicken) are served here. The atmosphere is usually very homely and informal.
• Chain Fast Food: Along highway US-176 (Duncan Bypass), a wide selection of famous American fast-food chains is presented, operating from early morning until late evening.

Dietary Nutrition (Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, Gluten-free)

Travellers with strict dietary restrictions should exercise caution:

• At the Airport: The selection in vending machines is extremely meagre (usually only salted nuts or certain types of crisps may suit vegans). Gluten-free options are not specifically marked.
• In the City: Traditional Southern cuisine abounds in meat and deep-fried dishes. It will be easier for vegetarians to find salads or vegetable side dishes in chain restaurants. There are no specialised vegan or Halal restaurants in the small town of Union. For those observing strict Halal rules or who have celiac disease, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you or visit grocery supermarkets (such as Walmart or Ingles Markets) in the city, where the selection of specialised products is wider.

Opening Hours

The area with machines and coffee in the terminal is available during airport operating hours (usually from 8:00 to 18:00 or upon request). City restaurants in Union tend to close quite early compared to metropolises — many kitchens stop working around 21:00, although fast food on the highway may operate longer or around the clock.

Summary:

• Quick Snack: Vending machines in the terminal lobby (Landside/Airside — single zone).
• Full Lunch: 5 minutes by taxi/car to Union city (BBQ, diners).

Travelling through Union County Airport (USC) differs radically from the experience of flying through large commercial hubs. An atmosphere of private aviation reigns here, where the main priority is saving time and the personal comfort of the passenger. To ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared a number of practical tips considering the specifics of this small airfield.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early". In the context of private aviation, this would be a waste of time. Since there are no long queues for check-in and luggage drop-off, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is quite sufficient to meet the pilot, load belongings, and board. If you are departing on an international flight (which requires prior arrangement) or you have a large volume of cargo, it is better to arrive 30 minutes early.

Check-in and Security Control

The procedure for passing formalities here is simplified to the maximum:

• No TSA: There are no familiar metal detector frames, body scanners, or need to remove shoes or belts at the airport.
• Documents: Verification of identity is usually carried out directly by the aircraft captain or ground service staff (FBO) before boarding. Keep your passport or ID close at hand.
• Direct Access: Often, passengers can drive their car practically up to the aircraft itself (with staff permission) to unload luggage, bypassing the terminal building.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

In private jets and small aviation charters, the concept of "seat assignment" works differently. Seats are not assigned by a system automatically:

• Balancing: Often, the seating arrangement is determined by the pilot based on the centre of gravity (weight distribution) of the aircraft. Be prepared that you may be asked to change seats to ensure flight safety.
• Comfort: If the weight balance allows, you can choose any seat you like. In small business jets, all seats are considered "business class" or "first class" seats.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: Do's and Don'ts

Luggage rules here are more flexible than on commercial airlines but have their own physical limitations:

• Type of Bags: It is strongly recommended to use soft bags instead of rigid suitcases. Luggage compartments of light aircraft often have non-standard shapes, and soft luggage is much easier to stow.
• Liquids: The strict "100 ml" rule does not usually apply here. You can take a bottle of water, your favourite lotion, or drinks on board, provided it is not prohibited by the rules of the specific air carrier.
• Dangerous Items: Standard prohibitions on weapons (without special permission), explosives, and flammable substances remain in place for general safety purposes.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Union County Airport is not designed for connecting flights in the usual sense. There is no transit zone here. If your route involves a transfer to a commercial flight:

• Plan a ground transfer to the nearest major airports: Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP) or Charlotte (CLT). Allow at least 1–1.5 hours for the road journey.
• Bear in mind that luggage will not be transferred automatically; you will have to collect it and take it with you.

Customs Control

Union County Airport is primarily a domestic airport. There is no permanent customs and border control point here. If you plan to fly here from abroad on a private jet, the pilot is obliged to arrange customs clearance in advance at a "Port of Entry" — the nearest international airport (for example, in Charlotte) — before continuing the flight to Union. Direct arrival from another country without an intermediate landing here is generally impossible.

How to Save Time and Money

• Parking: Use the airport's free parking. This is a significant saving compared to paid car parks at major hubs.
• Food: Since there is no full cafe in the terminal, buy food and drinks in advance at a regular supermarket in the city of Union. Prices in vending machines may be higher, and the selection is limited.
• Transport: If you need a taxi, book it in advance (at least 30–40 minutes before arrival). In this quiet area, Uber or Lyft cars are not always available instantly.

Actions in Case of Flight Delay

In small aviation, delays are most often related to weather conditions, as small aircraft are more sensitive to wind and storms.

• Stay in touch with the pilot: They possess the most up-to-date information and make the decision regarding departure.
• Use the Lounge: While waiting for the weather to improve, make use of the comfortable rest area in the terminal, where there is free Wi-Fi, coffee, and TV.
• Have a Plan "B": If the weather is unflyable, be prepared that the flight might be rescheduled for the next morning or you may be offered the option to reach your destination by rental car if the distance permits.