Purdue University Airport

Purdue University Airport is more than just the air gateway to the city of West Lafayette. It is the first university-owned airport in the United States and a true legend of American aviation. Since its founding, it has served simultaneously as a training ground for future pilots from the renowned Purdue aviation school and a convenient transport hub for visitors to the region. Here, history meets innovation, and the spirit of student life and the thirst for discovery are felt even on the runway.

The main feature of the airport is its inseparable link with Purdue University. It serves as a "living laboratory" for students of the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology, where they gain practical experience in air traffic control, aircraft maintenance, and airport management. Historically, this place is connected with the legendary aviator Amelia Earhart, who worked at the university and prepared here for her final flight in the Lockheed Electra 10-E aircraft, funded by the Purdue Research Foundation.

For travellers, LAF airport offers exceptional convenience. Thanks to its location right on the campus grounds, it is the ideal arrival point for those visiting the university, attending scientific conferences, or coming for sports events. In addition to serving commercial flights, the airport is a vital centre for general and corporate aviation for the entire region, offering a full range of services for private jets.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Purdue University Airport (LAF). If you require additional information, we recommend consulting official sources.

• Official Website: The most accurate and up-to-date information on airport operations, available services, and passenger regulations can always be found on the official Purdue University Airport website.
• Help Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +1 (765) 494-3424.
• Airport Address: The airport is located in the city of West Lafayette at: 1401 Aviation Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the address: airport@purdue.edu.
• Social Media: To follow the latest news and announcements, subscribe to the airport's official pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you must contact the airline directly. The airport administration does not handle the search for items checked onto a flight.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to booking, ticket changes, carriage rules, and special assistance, please contact your airline representatives. For general questions about terminal operations, use the phone and email listed above.

Getting to Purdue University Airport (LAF) from West Lafayette is quite simple due to its close proximity to the city and campus. There are several convenient methods suitable for different budgets and preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The local bus network, Greater Lafayette's CityBus, serves the city and its surroundings. The cost of a single trip is usually around $1, making this method very affordable. Although routes may not go directly to the terminal door, some stops are within walking distance. Be sure to check the current schedule and route map on the official CityBus website, as frequency may vary.

Taxis and Transfers are the fastest and most comfortable way. A taxi ride or a trip via ridesharing services (such as Uber or Lyft) from the city centre or university campus will take just 5-15 minutes. The estimated cost of such a trip is $10–20 depending on demand and time of day. This is an ideal choice for travellers with heavy luggage or those departing early in the morning or late at night. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is especially convenient for groups.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom of movement if you plan to explore not only the city but also other regions of the USA. Offices of several major rental companies are located at or near the airport. Rental costs usually start from $40–60 per day for an economy class car, but can vary depending on the season and company. Having your own car allows you not to depend on transport schedules. For those arriving in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided right at the terminal with options for both short-term and long-term stays.

It is worth noting that Purdue University Airport mainly serves regional and charter flights. For a wider choice of destinations, including international ones, travellers often use larger air hubs. The main regional hub is Indianapolis International Airport (IND), located approximately 95 km away. Other alternatives include Chicago airports, such as Midway (MDW), as well as Willard Airport (CMI), South Bend Airport (SBN), and Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA).

Purdue University Airport (LAF) in West Lafayette is a compact and easy-to-navigate aviation hub. Contrary to expectations one might have of a large university centre, there is only one passenger terminal here. This small building handles all flights, both arrivals and departures, making it extremely convenient for passengers unaccustomed to the hustle and bustle of large airports.

The terminal layout is intuitive. All key areas—check-in counters, security screening, a small waiting area, and baggage claim—are located in one building a short distance from each other. Thanks to this, getting lost here is virtually impossible. Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between terminals is irrelevant here—all operations take place in a single space.

Passing through registration and security procedures, when there are regular commercial flights, usually takes minimal time. Due to the low passenger traffic, queues here are a rarity. Typically, you can allocate no more than 30-45 minutes for all pre-flight formalities before departure. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to check with your airline's information. The main navigation advice is simple: follow the signs, of which there are few, and you will easily find everything you need within minutes of entering the building.

The history of Purdue University Airport (LAF) is unique and closely intertwined with the development of aviation in the USA. Opened in 1930, it went down in history as the first university-owned airport in the US. From the very beginning, it served a dual purpose: as a public transport hub for the city of West Lafayette and its surroundings, and as a living laboratory for Purdue University's prestigious aviation programme, training future pilots and engineers.

One of the brightest pages in the airport's history was its connection with the legendary aviator Amelia Earhart. In 1935, she joined the university faculty as a consultant. It was here, in the hangars of Purdue Airport, that she prepared her famous Lockheed Electra 10-E aircraft for her final, fateful round-the-world flight. During World War II, the airport also played an important role, serving as a training centre for military pilots, and in 1942, its first passenger terminal was opened.

Purdue University Airport is rightfully considered part of the "Cradle of Astronauts"—a title given to the university itself for the vast number of alumni who have conquered space. The most famous of them, Neil Armstrong, the first man on the Moon, learned to fly right here and made his first solo flight. Over the decades, the airport has been constantly modernized: runways have been extended to accommodate larger aircraft, and navigation equipment has been updated in accordance with modern standards.

Today, Purdue University Airport is not just a historical site. It continues to fulfil its mission, serving commercial flights and remaining a leading training centre for a new generation of aviators. Its rich history, from the pioneering flights of Amelia Earhart to the first steps of future astronauts, makes it more than just a transport hub—it is a true monument to American aviation and the human striving for the skies.

Purdue University Airport (LAF) is a compact and modern terminal offering passengers essential services for a comfortable journey. Although the range of amenities reflects the airport's regional status, everything necessary for a short wait before a flight is available here.

For a quick snack, vending machines with snacks and beverages are installed in the airport. Throughout the terminal, passengers can use free Wi-Fi by connecting to the university network. If you need to recharge your gadgets before departure, charging stations are available in the waiting area.

Please note that banking services, such as ATMs or currency exchange points, are not available in the terminal building. Passengers are advised to take care of cash in the city of West Lafayette in advance. Specialized business lounges or VIP lounges are also not provided at the airport.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with standards adopted in the USA. Infrastructure includes accessible restrooms and ramps, and you can contact an airline representative for assistance with boarding and disembarking. Families with small children can use changing tables located in the restrooms.

There is no on-site hotel or conference rooms in the terminal; however, many accommodation options and business venues can be found within a few minutes' drive, on the Purdue University campus, and in the surrounding areas. In case of a medical emergency, you should contact any airport staff member to call emergency services.

When planning a trip through Purdue University Airport (LAF), it is important to consider its specific features. It is a small regional airport primarily serving private aviation and training flights, so its infrastructure differs from major international hubs. At present, there are no traditional restaurants or cafes in the passenger terminal.

Passengers waiting for a flight have access to vending machines with a limited selection of snacks (crisps, chocolate) and beverages. This is the only option for a snack directly inside the terminal building. There are no establishments offering hot meals, fresh pastries, or specialized menus, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal options.

In this regard, it is strongly recommended to eat beforehand prior to arriving at the airport. Since the airport is located in close proximity to the city of West Lafayette, you will easily find many options for every taste and budget in the city itself. Thanks to Purdue University, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets where you can have a full lunch or grab a takeaway meal.

Travelling through Purdue University Airport (LAF) in West Lafayette, USA, can be simple and convenient if you know a few nuances. To ensure your flight goes smoothly, use our tips to save time, money, and stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Purdue Airport is small, so long queues are rare here. However, it is recommended to arrive 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure. This time is sufficient to check in calmly, drop off luggage, and pass through security control. To save time, check in for your flight online and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Security Screening: The procedure is standard for the US. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Due to low passenger traffic, screening here usually proceeds faster than at major airports.

Seat Selection: If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. An aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. Seats in the front of the cabin will allow you to leave the aircraft faster upon arrival. Families with children often find it more convenient to sit at the front of the cabin, close to the restrooms and flight attendants.

Hand Luggage: It is forbidden to carry sharp objects (knives, scissors with blades longer than 10 cm), weapons, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage. We recommend taking a portable charger, a light snack, and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security.

Connecting Passengers: Purdue Airport is usually the starting or ending point of a route, rather than a transit hub. If you have a connection planned at another, larger airport (for example, in Chicago), ensure there is enough time between flights—at least 1.5-2 hours. Check with the airline if you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transfer point.

Customs Control: Purdue Airport serves primarily domestic flights, so most passengers do not encounter customs and border control. If you arrive on an international private or charter flight, you will undergo standard US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures.

Saving Time and Money: Book tickets in advance to get the best price. Travel light with only hand luggage to avoid paying for baggage and waiting to collect it. Online check-in, preparing documents, and packing hand luggage correctly are the best ways to save time at the airport.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible rebooking options. Ask if the carrier provides vouchers for food or beverages. Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to check flight status and inform loved ones about schedule changes.