Searcy Field

Searcy Field Airport (SWO), officially known as Stillwater Regional Airport, is not just a point on the map but a vital transport hub closely linked to the life of the city and the renowned Oklahoma State University. As the fourth busiest airport in the state, it serves as an air gateway for students, faculty, business people, and sports teams. Despite its compact size, the airport provides reliable daily connections to one of the world's largest hubs, opening the way for passengers to any destination on the planet.

Features and Benefits

The main advantage of Searcy Field Airport is its exceptional convenience and focus on passenger comfort. Travellers particularly appreciate the free parking, fast check-in, and short baggage wait times, making the entire flight process as calm as possible. Free Wi-Fi is available in the passenger terminal, and the departure hall features a coffee station serving various beverages, from espresso to lattes. The airport's key partner is American Airlines, which operates daily flights to its largest hub, Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), offering routes around the world. Additionally, the airport plays an indispensable role for Oklahoma State University, servicing charter flights for its sports teams and serving as a base for the university's new flight school.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Searcy Field Airport (SWO).

• Official Website: You can always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website: flystillwaterok.com.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For general questions, you may contact the number (405) 372-7881.
• Airport Address: 2020-1 W Airport Rd, Stillwater, OK 74075, USA.
• Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: News and updates can be followed on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For issues related to tickets, flight check-in, or special assistance, please contact your airline's support service.

Getting to Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO), also known as Searcy Field, is quite simple as it is located just a few kilometres north of the city centre. A trip from the centre of Stillwater or the Oklahoma State University campus usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes. Here are the main ways to reach the airport.

Taxi and Rideshare Services. The fastest and most convenient way to get to the terminal is to order a taxi or use apps like Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in the city. This is an ideal option if you are travelling with luggage or value comfort. The cost of the trip will be low due to the short distance, though it is a more expensive option compared to public transport.

Public Transport. The OSU/Stillwater Community Transit bus system operates in Stillwater. Although this is the most budget-friendly method, it is worth checking the current schedule and routes on the official website in advance, as direct services to the airport may run at long intervals or require a transfer. This option is better suited for travellers without heavy luggage and with plenty of time.

Car Rental and Private Transport. If you plan to explore the surroundings of Stillwater and the state of Oklahoma, renting a car is the best solution. Rental company counters operate at the airport and in the city. For those driving to the airport in their own car, convenient parking is provided. There are zones for short-term and long-term parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal.

Alternative Airports. It is worth noting that Stillwater Airport serves a limited number of flights. For a wider choice of destinations, including international ones, many travellers fly into larger airports such as Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City (about 1.5 hours drive) or Tulsa International Airport (also approximately 1.5 hours drive). From there, you can reach Stillwater by rental car or shuttle.

Searcy Field Airport (SWO) is distinguished by its compactness and simplicity, making it very convenient for passengers. The airport operates with only one terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, navigation through the building is intuitive, and the risk of getting lost is reduced to zero.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and the baggage drop-off point are located. After checking in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, which is located right there. After the check, you enter a small waiting lounge with the boarding gate. The arrivals area is also in this building: after disembarking from the plane, passengers proceed to the baggage claim hall and immediately to the airport exit.

Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take mere minutes. There is no need for shuttles or long walks. This is especially valuable for travellers with children or heavy luggage. Completing all pre-flight formalities, including check-in and security, usually takes no more than 20-30 minutes, even during peak hours.

For comfortable navigation, simply follow the signs, which are clearly visible and understandable. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure for a domestic flight. This time will be more than sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing and relax before the flight. Simplicity and efficiency are the main advantages of the Stillwater airport terminal.

The history of Stillwater Airport, known as Searcy Field (SWO), is closely intertwined with military aviation and academic education. Its story began in 1917, when the field was established as a training ground for US Army Air Service pilots during World War I. The airport received its original name, Searcy Field, in honour of Lieutenant Henry L. Searcy, an aviator from Oklahoma who died in 1918.

The most significant phase in the airport's history occurred during World War II. During this time, it was transformed into a major naval air base, Naval Air Station Stillwater. Thousands of US Navy pilots underwent initial flight training here, making Searcy Field one of the country's key training centres. After the war ended, the facility was returned to the municipal ownership of the city of Stillwater.

In the post-war years, the airport became an important centre for civil aviation and, crucially, a base for the Oklahoma State University flight school. The connection with the university and its aviation programme became defining for the airport's development for many decades, turning it into a platform for training a new generation of pilots and aviation specialists.

The recent history of the airport was marked by an important achievement — the resumption of commercial passenger transport. In 2016, after a long hiatus, American Eagle began operating regular flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). A large-scale modernization was carried out for this purpose: a new modern passenger terminal was built, and the runway was improved, allowing it to accommodate modern regional aircraft. This event became a true milestone for the airport, returning it to the map of US commercial aviation.

Thus, Searcy Field Airport has travelled a unique path from a World War I era military airfield to a modern regional hub. Its legacy is not only military feats but also a contribution to the development of aviation education, making its history particularly interesting and multifaceted.

Searcy Field Airport (SWO) in Stillwater is a modern and compact regional air terminal offering passengers all the necessary basic amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal has a cosy waiting lounge where you can relax before departure. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special stations are provided for charging electronic devices.

Dining and shopping options at the airport are limited by its small size. Typically, you can find vending machines with snacks and drinks here. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to visit one of the cafes or restaurants in the city itself before arriving at the airport. There are no specialised shops, including Duty Free, in the terminal.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with accessibility standards. Ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and staff assistance for boarding are provided. For travellers with small children, there are changing tables in the restrooms. However, there are no separate play areas or VIP lounges at the airport.

Regarding other services, there are no currency exchange points or bank branches at Searcy Field Airport, so it is recommended to settle all financial matters in advance. Also, there is no permanent medical point here, but staff are trained to provide first aid in emergency situations. Business centres or conference rooms for rent are not provided in the passenger terminal.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, in the city of Stillwater, located just a few minutes' drive away, you will find many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget — from major hotel chains to cosy motels.

Searcy Field Airport (SWO) is a compact and convenient regional airport, so dining options here are concentrated in one main establishment that serves all passengers. Although the selection is not comparable to large international hubs, you can comfortably have a snack or drink coffee while waiting for your flight.

The main dining point at the airport is a café located in the departure area, immediately after passing security control (airside). Here, a cosy atmosphere awaits you with a menu focused on classic American dishes. It is an ideal place to refresh yourself before your flight while watching the runway. The kitchen offers simple and hearty dishes typical of many establishments in the USA.

For those in a hurry, the menu features quick options: fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and various snacks. If you have time for a more substantial meal, consider the hot breakfasts, burgers, or full lunch sets. Prices here are moderate, comparable to other regional airports in the country. The café's operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens well before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves, so you certainly won't go hungry. If you are looking for more variety, it is worth dining at one of the numerous establishments in the city of Stillwater before arriving at the airport.

Regarding special dietary needs, choices may be limited. Passengers adhering to a vegetarian diet will likely be offered salads or vegetable sandwiches. Finding certified gluten-free or Halal dishes in a small airport can be difficult, so if you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you or check for suitable options in advance.

Travelling through a regional airport like Searcy Field (SWO) in Stillwater has its advantages. Procedures here are faster than in major hubs, but good preparation will always make your trip more comfortable. Here are some useful tips for those flying from this airport in the USA.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure. This time is usually sufficient to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Screening rules are standard for all US airports. Remember the liquids rule: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for separate scanning. Prepare these items in advance to speed up the process. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Connections. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. A window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Most flights from Stillwater operate with a connection in major hubs (for example, in Dallas). When checking in, ensure your luggage is checked through to your final destination. After landing at the transit airport, immediately check the gate number for your next flight.

Saving Money and Customs Control. There is no need to pass customs control for domestic flights within the USA. To save money, book tickets in advance, travel light to avoid excess baggage fees, and bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible rebooking options. Small airports may have limited amenities, so be prepared to pass the time with a book or a pre-downloaded film. Remain calm and check with airline staff regarding your rights to compensation or services (meals, drinks).