Central Wisconsin Airport

Welcome to Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA), also known as "C-Way" — the key aerial gateway to the heart of the state of Wisconsin. Opened in 1969, it became a vital transport hub replacing the smaller airfields of Wausau and Stevens Point, allowing for the reception of jet aircraft for the first time. Today, it is a modern and compact airport serving not only business travellers but also tourists eager to explore the picturesque corners of central and northern Wisconsin, including the Granite Peak ski resort. As the fifth busiest airport in the state, CWA offers a convenient and swift start to your journey.

Central Wisconsin Airport is valued by travellers for its compactness and convenience. With only one terminal, navigation is intuitive, and the time required for security checks and check-in is minimal. In 2020, the departure zone was modernised: passengers can now enjoy comfortable seating, charging stations for gadgets, and updated lounges. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and you can pass the time before your flight at The Blind Rooster Cafe + Market, which features a full menu, refreshments, and a souvenir shop.

For those arriving in the region, services from major car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and National are available right at the airport. You can also use taxi services or apps like Uber and Lyft. A significant advantage for those picking up passengers is the parking — the first three hours are provided free of charge. All this makes Central Wisconsin Airport an excellent starting point for your journey across the USA.

• Official Website: www.fly-cwa.org
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (715) 693-2147
• Airport Address: 100 CWA Drive, Mosinee, WI 54455, USA
• Email: A direct email address is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official airport website for enquiries.
• Social Media: You can follow updates and airport news on their official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For items lost within the terminal building, please contact the airport's Lost and Found service. If your luggage was lost or damaged during a flight, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to general questions, you may use the main airport phone number or the feedback form on the website.

Getting to Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) from the city centre of Wausau is quite simple, although transport options have specifics typical of smaller cities in the USA. The journey usually takes about 20-25 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Transfers. This is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach the airport. Local taxi services operate in the city, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early flight. Some hotels also offer shuttle services for their guests — it is worth confirming this information when booking.

Car Rental. If you prefer freedom of movement, car rental is your best choice. Offices of major rental companies are present at Central Wisconsin Airport, making it easy to pick up a car upon arrival or drop it off before departure. This is particularly convenient for those planning to travel around the region.

Personal Car and Parking. Many locals and travellers reach the airport by private car. The airport offers convenient parking options: there are both short-term lots for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, and long-term parking for those leaving their car during their trip. Parking zones are located in immediate proximity to the terminal.

It is worth noting that direct public transport connections (such as city buses) between Wausau and the airport may be limited or non-existent. Therefore, travellers relying on this option should check current schedules and routes on local transport company websites in advance or opt for a taxi or car rental.

When planning your trip, it is also worth considering alternative airports that might offer more flight options or better fares. Among the nearest options are Outagamie Regional Airport in Appleton and Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay. Although they are located further away (approximately 1.5–2 hours by car), sometimes this can be a justified choice for your itinerary.

Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) is a modern and compact airport designed for maximum passenger convenience. Its key feature is the presence of one main passenger terminal where all flights are serviced. This structure completely eliminates the need for complex transfers and makes navigation intuitive even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is very simple. On the ground floor, you will find airline check-in counters where you can drop off luggage and receive your boarding pass. Immediately behind them is the security screening checkpoint (TSA). After passing through control, you enter the secure area — the waiting lounge with boarding gates. Thanks to the airport's small size, the walk from the entrance to the gate takes mere minutes.

The arrivals area is also located in the same building. After disembarking from the aircraft, passengers proceed to the lower level to the baggage claim area. The offices of car rental companies are located here as well, which is very convenient for further travel in the region. Since everything is in one building, there is no need for shuttles or long walks between terminals.

Pre-flight procedures at Central Wisconsin Airport usually proceed very quickly. Unlike large hubs, there are rarely long queues for check-in and security here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before your flight's departure to complete all formalities without haste, enjoy a coffee, and calmly wait for boarding.

The main recommendation for navigation is simply to follow the signs. All zones are clearly marked, and getting lost here is practically impossible. The compactness and thoughtful layout make CWA one of the most convenient and least stressful airports for starting or ending your journey.

The history of Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) is a story of regional cooperation and development. The airport was founded as a joint project of Marathon and Portage counties to serve the growing cities of the central part of the state, including Wausau and Stevens Point. The official opening took place in 1969. The new airport replaced small municipal airfields that could no longer cope with modern aircraft and increasing passenger traffic.

Since opening, CWA has gone through several stages of modernisation. A key moment was the large-scale reconstruction and expansion of the terminal in the early 2000s. This project significantly improved passenger comfort: new jet bridges were added, waiting lounges and check-in areas were expanded, and the baggage handling system was modernised. These improvements allowed the airport to meet modern standards and increase its capacity.

Over decades of operation, the airport has been served by various airlines, ensuring the region's connection with major hubs in the USA. One of the first carriers was North Central Airlines, which, through a series of mergers and acquisitions, eventually became part of Delta Air Lines. Today, Delta, along with American Airlines and United Airlines operating flights through their regional partners, remains one of the main carriers connecting Central Wisconsin with Chicago, Minneapolis, and Detroit.

An interesting fact: despite the airport often being associated with the city of Wausau, physically it is located in the small town of Mosinee, roughly equidistant from Wausau and Stevens Point. This strategic location was chosen intentionally so that CWA could effectively serve business and tourist flows of the entire region, rather than just one specific city. This approach has made it a crucial transport hub for the central part of Wisconsin.

Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped and thoughtfully designed for travellers' needs.

You can have a snack or drink coffee before departure at the Mosinee Grille restaurant, located in the main terminal hall. It serves American cuisine and offers a variety of beverages. For those looking for souvenirs or travel goods, there is a small shop where you can buy press, snacks, and gifts with local symbols.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected, work, or be entertained while waiting for boarding. Special stands and power outlets are conveniently located in the waiting lounges for charging electronic devices.

Although there are no specialised airline VIP lounges in the airport, the waiting areas at the boarding gates are quite comfortable. For business travellers, a conference room is available for rent to hold meetings. Financial services are represented by ATMs, but currency exchange points are absent, so it is worth taking care of money exchange in advance.

The airport fully complies with accessibility standards for passengers with reduced mobility, offering ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and other amenities. Families with small children can use changing tables in the restrooms. In case first aid is needed, please contact any airport employee.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, but several hotels are located in close proximity, a few minutes' drive away. Many of them provide free transfers to and from the terminal for their guests, making them a convenient option for rest before or after a flight.

When planning a snack or a full meal at Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA), it is important to remember that this is a compact regional airport, and the choice of establishments is corresponding. The main dining options are concentrated in one place, which makes navigation very simple.

The main and essentially sole establishment where you can eat is the restaurant Mosinee Grille. It is located in the "secure" zone, meaning after passing security control. This is a convenient place to relax while waiting for your flight. Before the security checkpoint, there are no cafes, only vending machines with drinks and snacks are available.

The Mosinee Grille menu features classic American cuisine: burgers, sandwiches, salads, and various snacks. In the morning, you can order breakfast. If you want to try something local, pay attention to cheese curds — a popular snack in the state of Wisconsin. The venue also offers a selection of local and national beverages.

Regarding special dietary needs, the choice may be limited. Vegetarians will likely find a salad on the menu or be able to ask for a sandwich prepared without meat. For stricter diets (such as Halal or vegan), it is best to check possibilities directly with the staff. Prices in the establishment are average by airport standards. The restaurant's operating hours are tied to the flight schedule: it opens before the first morning departures and closes after the last evening plane departs.

Recommendations for Travellers:

• For a quick snack, appetizers such as fries or the aforementioned cheese curds are suitable.
• For a full lunch or dinner, it is best to order a burger or one of the hearty sandwiches while seated at a table with a view of the runway.

To ensure your journey through Central Wisconsin Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. The airport in Wausau is relatively small, making it easy to navigate, but proper preparation always helps avoid stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure. During peak seasons (for example, during holidays), it is better to allow 2 hours. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage: Prepare for security checks in advance. All liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Familiarise yourself with the full list on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website.

Seat Selection and Transfers: If the airline allows, choose your seat when booking. Seats in the front of the cabin allow for a quicker exit from the aircraft, while flights feel more stable near the wings. For passengers with connections, we advise checking the gate number for the next flight immediately after landing — it may have changed. Factor in the time needed to move between terminals, especially in large hub airports.

Customs Control: Since Central Wisconsin Airport primarily serves domestic flights, most passengers will not need to pass through customs or passport control. These procedures are relevant only for travellers arriving from abroad, and they are usually conducted at the first airport of arrival in the country.

Savings and Flight Delays: To save money, book tickets in advance and consider travelling with only hand luggage to avoid baggage fees. in case of a flight delay, contact an airline representative for information. Know your rights: for lengthy delays, airlines may provide vouchers for meals or hotel accommodation. Keep a phone charger handy to stay connected and monitor your flight status updates via the airline's app.