Capital Airport

Begin your journey through the American Midwest at Capital Airport, serving as the main aerial gateway to the historic heritage of Illinois. Named in honour of the 16th US President, Abraham Lincoln, this cosy aviation hub eliminates the stress typical of giant hubs, offering warm local hospitality and a calm atmosphere in return. Located just an hour's drive from the city of Taylorville, it serves as the ideal starting point for those who value comfort, speed, and the opportunity to touch history from the very first minutes of arrival.

Capital Airport (Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport) is renowned for its unique design and passenger convenience, making it one of the most pleasant regional airports in the country. Here is what makes it special:

• Historical Atmosphere: Passengers are welcomed by installations and statues dedicated to the life of Abraham Lincoln, immediately immersing them in the region's cultural context.
• Speed of Service: Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, passing through security control (TSA) takes mere minutes, allowing you to arrive at the airport later than is required in large metropolises.
• Modern Amenities: The terminal is equipped with free high-speed Wi-Fi and numerous charging stations for gadgets, allowing you to stay connected without interruption.
• Comfort for Everyone: The airport features rest areas, a nursing room for mothers and children, as well as convenient navigation for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Transport Accessibility: The presence of car rental counters directly in the terminal makes the trip to Taylorville or other cities in the state as simple and fast as possible.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about Capital Airport (SPI), officially known as Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, which serves the city of Springfield as well as nearby communities including Taylorville, it is recommended to consult official sources. Below are the main contact details for your convenience.

• Official Airport Website: www.flyspi.com. This is the most reliable source of information regarding flight schedules, terminal services, parking, and airport news.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (217) 788-1060. You can call this number for enquiries regarding general airport operations.
• Airport Address: 1200 Capital Airport Dr, Springfield, IL 62707, USA. We recommend checking the route via online maps before your journey.
• Email: To contact the airport administration, a special contact form is available in the "Contact Us" section of the official website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains pages on social networks where it publishes operational updates. Links to official accounts are usually located on the website's homepage.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage during a flight, please contact your airline's representative first. For items left within the terminal (not on the plane), please use the form on the "Lost and Found" page of the airport website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance directly within the terminal building, you may approach the information desks or call the helpline.

There are several ways to get from Taylorville to Capital Airport (Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, SPI), the region's main air hub located near Springfield. Given the distance of approximately 50 kilometres, the journey usually takes between 45 and 60 minutes. As there is no direct public transport connection, most travellers choose a car or taxi.

Travelling by Car is the most convenient and popular way to reach the airport. You can drive your own vehicle or rent one. Capital Airport hosts representatives of major rental companies, allowing you to easily return a car right before your flight. The airport has several parking zones: short-term parking is convenient for quick drop-offs or picking up passengers, whilst long-term parking offers more favourable rates for those leaving their car for several days or longer. Parking costs here are generally significantly lower than at major airports in the USA.

Taxis, Ride-sharing, and Transfers are an excellent choice for those who value comfort and prefer not to worry about parking. A ride can be ordered via popular apps such as Uber and Lyft, or by using local taxi services. The cost of a trip from Taylorville to the airport will be quite substantial, so it is recommended to check estimated fares in advance. For a better price or for travelling in a large group, consider booking a pre-arranged shuttle or private transfer.

Unfortunately, there is no direct public transport, such as buses or trains, between Taylorville and Capital Airport. Travellers wishing to save money would first have to reach downtown Springfield by intercity bus (if available) and then transfer to a local city bus or taxi to the airport. Such a route is very complex and time-consuming, so it is practically unused by tourists.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that Capital Airport (SPI) is the nearest and most convenient point of departure from Taylorville. However, to find a greater number of flights, including international ones, some travellers consider larger, albeit more distant, airports. For example, St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) offers a much wider network of routes but is approximately a two-hour drive away. Other regional options include General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) and Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI). Regardless of your choice, the most reliable way to reach any of these airports remains travelling by car, so always allow sufficient time for the road.

Capital Airport (SPI) is distinguished by a compact structure that is easy for passengers to understand. It consists of one main passenger terminal which handles all commercial flights, both departures and arrivals. Such an organisation makes navigation through the airport as simple and fast as possible, sparing travellers the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive and logical. On the ground floor, you will find airline check-in counters and the baggage claim area for arriving passengers. After check-in and baggage drop, departing passengers proceed to the second floor, where the security checkpoint (TSA) and boarding gates are located. Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to worry about transfers—all key zones are within walking distance of each other.

The Departure Zone is located on the second floor after the security checkpoint and features a comfortable and modern waiting lounge with several boarding gates. The Arrival Zone, in turn, is on the ground floor. Immediately after disembarking the aircraft, passengers descend to the baggage claim belts and the exit to the city.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Capital Airport usually takes significantly less time than at major international hubs. Due to the small passenger flow, queues for check-in and security are typically minimal. Despite this, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure to check luggage and pass through security without haste.

Overall, navigating the terminal will not cause any difficulties even for first-time visitors. Clear signs lead from the entrance to the check-in counters, then to the security area and boarding gates. It is practically impossible to get lost here, making travel through Capital Airport particularly convenient and predictable.

The history of Capital Airport (SPI), located in Springfield, the capital of Illinois, and serving nearby cities such as Taylorville, is closely linked to key events of the 20th century. Its journey began at the height of World War II: the airfield was officially opened on 1 January 1942 as a training base for the Army Air Forces of the USA. Pilots and combat aircraft crews trained here, making a significant contribution to the country's military efforts.

After the war ended, the facility was demilitarised and transferred to civilian use. In 1947, the airport came under the management of the city of Springfield, receiving the name "Springfield Municipal Airport". A landmark moment in its history was the renaming in 1967. In honour of Illinois' most famous resident, the 16th US President, the airport received its modern and proud name — Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport.

With the development of civil aviation, the airport was constantly modernised. In the 1960s, with the arrival of jet aircraft, runways were reconstructed, and a new terminal was built. Subsequent decades were also marked by significant infrastructure improvements, including terminal expansion and navigation equipment updates, to meet growing demands for passenger comfort and safety.

An interesting fact: thanks to its location in the state capital and its connection to Lincoln's name, the airport has repeatedly hosted important government and presidential flights. Today, Capital Airport (SPI) is not just a transport hub but an important part of the region's historical heritage, continuing to play a key role in ensuring transport accessibility to central Illinois for tourists and business travellers.

Capital Airport (SPI) offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed so that your journey begins or ends as pleasantly as possible. Here you will find several options for a snack—from cafes where you can have coffee with fresh pastries, to small restaurants offering hot meals. Shops are also available where you can purchase souvenirs, newspapers, and travel essentials.

For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi and electronic device charging stations are available throughout the terminal, allowing you to always stay connected. Comfortable conditions are created in the general waiting halls, and special zones may be available for those seeking more privacy. ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed within the airport; however, currency exchange bureaus may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange this in advance.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and escort services available upon prior request. Families with children can use the nursing room to care for babies in a quiet environment. Basic medical assistance can be obtained at the airport if necessary.

If you need to stay overnight, there are several hotels of various price categories located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, easily accessible by taxi or shuttle. For business travellers, business centre services or small conference rooms may be available; it is best to check information regarding these in advance on the official airport website.

Despite its compact size, Capital Airport (SPI) offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. The main dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal and are available both before and after passing through security control.

The airport's main establishment is The Capital City Bar & Grill, located in the public zone (landside), before the security checkpoint. This is an excellent place for those who have time for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Here you can order classic American dishes: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetisers. Special attention should be paid to the local culinary speciality — the Horseshoe sandwich, which is an open-faced sandwich with meat, covered with French fries and cheese sauce. This is a hearty and authentic dish worth trying to get acquainted with Illinois cuisine.

For those who have already passed security (airside), a small bar operates in the departure zone. It is ideal for a quick snack before boarding. Here you can order beverages, including coffee, as well as purchase pre-packaged sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. This is the optimal choice if you are limited on time.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Vegetarian options, such as salads or meat-free sandwiches, can generally be found on the main menu, but for stricter diets (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal), ready-made offers are unlikely to be available. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with staff or carry necessary snacks with you. Prices in the airport establishments are moderate, typical for regional US airports. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: cafes open before the first departures and close after the last aircraft departs.

To ensure your journey through Capital Airport in the city of Taylorville goes smoothly, make use of our tips. The main advantage of this airport is its compactness, which makes all pre-flight procedures fast and convenient, helping you start your trip across the USA without unnecessary fuss.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Forget about stress and long queues. For a comfortable departure from Capital Airport, we recommend arriving approximately 90 minutes before your flight's departure. Thanks to the terminal's small size, this time will be more than sufficient to calmly check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security.

Check-in and Security Control: To save even more time, complete online check-in for your flight, which is usually available 24 hours before departure. The screening procedure here also moves quickly. Be prepared to remove large electronics and your bag of liquids from your carry-on luggage in advance to speed up the process.

Hand Luggage Rules: Remember the basic rules: all liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Power banks and other lithium batteries are permitted only in carry-on luggage. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited.

Savings and Comfort: Bring an empty water bottle with you—it can be refilled after passing through security. Light snacks will also help save money, as food at the airport can be pricey. If the airline allows, choose your seat when booking: a window seat for beautiful views or an aisle seat for greater freedom of movement.

If You Have a Connection: Upon arriving at a transit airport, immediately check the gate number for your next flight, as information may change. Ensure you have enough time for the transfer.

In Case of Flight Delay: Remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and further instructions. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with drinks or meals.