Yuma International Airport

Yuma International Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a true aerial gateway to the sunniest city on the planet. The uniqueness of this air harbour lies in its proximity to a legendary Marine Corps base, thanks to which passengers on civil flights often become spectators of breathtaking military aircraft take-offs. Here, amidst the landscapes of the Arizona desert, the atmosphere of a calm journey intertwines harmoniously with the power of modern technology.

Features and Advantages:

The main highlight of the airport is its shared use with the US Marine Corps Air Station. This means that while waiting for your flight, you might see the latest fighter jets on the runway, turning an ordinary wait into a small air show. Furthermore, the terminal is renowned for its compactness and convenience: there are virtually no queues here, and all procedures, from check-in to security screening, are completed as quickly as possible.

For passenger comfort, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the territory, along with cosy waiting areas. Special attention is paid to military personnel: a special lounge, the Military Comfort Center, operates for them with a homely atmosphere. And thanks to Yuma being officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the sunniest city in the world, flight delays due to bad weather are a rare exception here.

For your convenience, we have gathered all the necessary contact information for Yuma International Airport (YUM). These details will help you plan your journey and contact airport representatives should any questions arise.

• Official Website: www.flyyuma.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (928) 726-5882
• Airport Address: 2191 E 32nd St, Yuma, AZ 85365, USA
• Email: airport@yuma-az.gov
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on social networks where news and updates for passengers are published. Current links can be found on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline directly. If you have left items in the airport terminal, contact the administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general enquiries and assistance, please use the airport information desk phone number.

Getting to Yuma International Airport (YUM) from the city of Yuma is effortless, as it is located just a few kilometres southeast of the centre. Thanks to such a convenient location, the journey to the terminal takes minimal time, and travellers can choose the most suitable mode of transport depending on their budget and preferences.

The most economical way to get to the airport is by using public transport. The YCAT (Yuma County Area Transit) bus system offers route No. 4, which directly connects the city centre with the airport. The bus ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes and costs only a few dollars. This option is ideal for tourists travelling light and wishing to save money.

For those who value comfort and speed, the best choice would be taxis or ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in the city. A car journey from the centre to the airport will take just 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will be higher than the bus, but this is compensated by convenience, especially if you are travelling with bulky luggage or in a group. This is the fastest and most direct way to get to your flight.

If you plan to explore the surroundings of Yuma and other corners of the USA, an excellent solution would be car rental. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at Yuma International Airport. You can pick up a car upon arrival or return a car rented in the city right before departure. For those driving to the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones located within walking distance of the terminal.

Many travellers also arrive in the region via larger transport hubs. If your route lies through San Diego International Airport or the nearby Mexicali Airport, getting to Yuma will not be difficult. The most convenient way is car rental, which will allow you to enjoy scenic views along the way. The drive from San Diego takes about three hours. Additionally, intercity buses run between these cities and Yuma, offering a more budget-friendly alternative for continuing your journey.

Yuma International Airport (YUM) is distinguished by its compactness and simplicity, making it very convenient for travellers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all commercial flights, both arrivals and departures.

The terminal building has a logical and clear layout. Check-in zones, security control, boarding gates, and baggage claim are in close proximity to one another. Thanks to the small size and clear signage, navigating the airport causes no difficulties. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings, which significantly saves passengers' time and energy.

A unique feature of the airport is that it shares runways with a US Marine Corps air base in the USA, so sometimes one can observe military aircraft flights. The terminal itself, although modernly equipped, retains the charm of historical architecture. Inside, you will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait: check-in counters, car rental desks, and a café.

Check-in and screening procedures at Yuma Airport usually pass quickly and simply, without the long queues characteristic of major aviation hubs. typically, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure. This time is enough to check in luggage without haste, pass security control, and reach your boarding gate.

The history of Yuma International Airport (YUM) is closely intertwined with the development of American military aviation, making it one of the most unique airports in the USA. Its journey began in 1928 with the opening of a small airfield, Fly Field, which served as a modest runway for early mail and passenger planes crossing the desert landscapes of Arizona.

A key moment in the airport's history was World War II. The airfield was transferred to the US Army and transformed into Yuma Army Airfield. During these years, it became one of the largest and busiest flight schools in the country, where thousands of pilots trained to fly bombers such as the B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator. It was a critically important training centre that made a significant contribution to the military effort.

After the war, the airfield returned to civilian use, but its military significance was not forgotten. In 1956, it was reactivated as a US Air Force base, and in 1962, it was transferred to the US Marine Corps and received its current military designation — Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma. It was then that a joint-use agreement was signed, allowing civilian flights to operate alongside military operations, creating the modern Yuma International Airport.

Significant modernization of the airport occurred in the 1990s when a new, more modern passenger terminal was built to better serve the growing number of travellers. Today, the airport continues to play a dual role: it is an important transport hub for southwestern Arizona and one of the main bases for Marine pilot training. Thanks to more than 300 sunny days a year, the weather in Yuma is considered ideal for flying.

One of the most interesting facts is precisely its joint-use status. Passengers departing from Yuma can watch the take-offs and landings of the most modern military fighters. Due to intense military activity, the airport regularly ranks among the busiest in Arizona in terms of flight operations. Every year, the famous air show takes place at MCAS Yuma, attracting thousands of spectators and demonstrating the power and precision of military aviation.

Yuma International Airport (YUM), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure convenience and quick navigation, making your stay here as pleasant as possible.

In the airport building, you will find a café and restaurant where you can have a snack before departure, drink coffee, or have a full lunch. There is also a small shop offering souvenirs, press, and travel goods. The selection may not be as large as in major hubs, but the basic needs of travellers are taken into account.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices are also provided in the waiting lounges, so you can easily recharge your smartphone or laptop. For military personnel and their families, a special lounge is open — the Freedom Lounge, offering comfortable conditions for rest.

Financial services are mainly represented by ATMs where you can withdraw cash. Currency exchange points are generally absent in small regional airports, so it is recommended to take care of money exchange in advance. In case of necessity, airport staff can provide first aid.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and special assistance for boarding and disembarking, which can be booked in advance. For travellers with small children, there are mother and child rooms with changing tables.

Although there are no hotels within the airport territory itself, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity, which can be quickly reached by taxi or shuttle. There are no specialised conference halls or business centres at the airport, as it is primarily oriented towards serving passenger flights.

Dining options at Yuma International Airport (YUM) reflect its compact size. There isn't a wide variety of restaurants here as in major hubs; however, passengers can find a comfortable place to have a snack or a full meal before departure.

The main and, essentially, the only dining establishment at the airport is Brewers Restaurant & Sports Bar. It is important to note that it is located in the main part of the terminal, before security control (landside). This means it is accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. We recommend planning your time to eat here, as after security screening (airside), the choice will be limited to vending machines.

The menu at Brewers Restaurant & Sports Bar features classic American cuisine. Here you can order:

• Hearty burgers and sandwiches, which are excellent for a full lunch.
• Various salads and snacks for a lighter bite.
• Traditional breakfasts for those departing on morning flights.
• A wide selection of beverages at the bar.

This establishment is suitable for both a leisurely meal while waiting for a flight and a quick snack.

Regarding special dietary requests, due to the limited selection, finding vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes may be challenging. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff — perhaps some menu items can be adapted, for example, by ordering a salad without certain ingredients. The price range at the restaurant is average, typical for US airports. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: the establishment opens before the first departures and closes after the last plane leaves.

Key tip for travellers: if you are hungry, eat at Brewers Restaurant & Sports Bar before you go through security control. After screening, the only option will likely be machines with drinks and snacks.

When planning a departure from Yuma International Airport, it is important to calculate your time correctly. Although it is not the largest air hub in the USA, it is better to arrive in advance to avoid rushing. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, allow at least 3 hours — this time will be needed to pass all formalities, including customs and border control.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure. This will allow you to choose a seat and obtain a boarding pass in advance. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage. When passing security control, be ready to present your ID and boarding pass, as well as remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Following these simple rules will help you pass screening quickly and without unnecessary questions.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat offers more legroom and the freedom to stand up. Regarding hand luggage, remember the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag. Check the permissible dimensions and weight of hand luggage on your airline's website in advance to avoid extra charges at the airport. Sharp objects and other prohibited items should be left at home or checked in with your luggage.

If you have a transfer in Yuma, especially from an international flight to a domestic one, check whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Typically, this is a mandatory procedure when entering the country. When passing customs control, keep your passport and completed declaration ready. Be prepared to answer standard questions about the purpose of your trip and the contents of your luggage. Clear and honest answers will help you pass this formality quickly.

Travelling through the airport can be less expensive if you follow a few tips. Weigh your suitcases at home to avoid paying for excess weight. Take an empty reusable water bottle with you — it can be filled after the security zone. Light snacks brought from home will help save on expensive airport cafés. Also, consider the possibility of booking parking or a transfer in advance; this often works out cheaper than paying on the spot.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, the first thing to do is contact a representative of your airline. They will provide current information and explain possible options: rebooking on another flight, providing meal vouchers, or even a hotel. While waiting, make use of the airport amenities: connect to the Wi-Fi, charge your gadgets, and rest in the waiting area. Stay calm — airport and airline staff will do everything possible to assist you.