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Albany Airport ALB Airport Traveler Guide

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ALB Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:
Key ALB Airport Topics:

Getting to Know ALB Airport

Welcome to our Albany Airport Online Guide, your one-stop source for all essential information about ALB Airport. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, this guide aims to assist you in navigating the airport's terminals with ease. ALB Airport, known for its rich history dating back to the 1920s, offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. From dining options to terminal maps, this guide is designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. If you're planning to explore beyond ALB, our complete guide to airports can provide you with valuable insights about other airports on your itinerary.

iFly Tip: Discover essential advice for navigating airports on our airport info page.

If you're traveling through the airport, you'll find four terminals to navigate: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 8 gates, Concourse B has 10 gates, and Concourse C has 4 gates. The Main Terminal has 14 gates and is home to most of the airport's services and amenities, including check-in counters, baggage claim, and security checkpoints.

Major airlines that use Albany Airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines operate out of Concourse A, while Southwest Airlines and United Airlines operate out of the Main Terminal.

As you navigate the airport, keep an eye out for signs directing you to your departure gate. If you're unsure of where to go, don't hesitate to ask an airport staff member for assistance. They'll be happy to help you find your way.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Albany (NY) Airport has four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the free shuttle bus service that runs every 10-15 minutes. The shuttle bus stops at each terminal and the ride takes approximately 5 minutes. Alternatively, passengers can walk between the terminals using the covered walkways that connect the Main Terminal to Concourse A and Concourse B. The walk time between the Main Terminal and Concourse A is approximately 5 minutes, while the walk time between the Main Terminal and Concourse B is approximately 10 minutes. The walk time between Concourse B and Concourse C is approximately 5 minutes.

Tips from ALB Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Albany International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from ALB-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're flying out of Concourse C, make sure to grab some snacks beforehand as the food options are limited. It's a quieter area, which is great for relaxing before your flight." — Emily D., Colonie, NY, January 2024

"I always use the interactive map online before arriving at ALB. It helps me plan my route and find the closest amenities to my gate, especially when I'm in a rush." — John K., Schenectady, NY, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"For a budget-friendly option, take the CDTA bus. It's reliable and connects you to various parts of Albany, which is perfect if you're traveling light." — Raj P., Troy, NY, February 2024

"If you're in a hurry, I recommend using a rideshare service. They pick you up right outside baggage claim and are usually quicker than waiting for a taxi." — Maria S., Latham, NY, April 2024

Parking

"The long-term parking is quite affordable and within walking distance of the terminal. If you're traveling for more than a few days, it's a convenient choice." — Alex M., Clifton Park, NY, May 2024

"I prefer using the off-airport parking lots. They offer shuttle services that are prompt and cost-effective, especially for longer trips." — Linda T., Rensselaer, NY, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss out on the local craft beers available at the airport bars. It's a nice way to relax and enjoy a taste of Albany before your flight." — Brian J., Guilderland, NY, July 2024

"If you need to do some last-minute shopping, the tech store in the Main Terminal has a great selection of travel gadgets." — Sophie L., Watervliet, NY, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the TSA wait times online before you leave for the airport. It can save you a lot of time and stress, especially during peak hours." — Kevin R., Albany, NY, September 2024

"I find that traveling early in the morning helps avoid the rush and potential delays. Plus, the airport is much quieter and more peaceful." — Grace F., Delmar, NY, October 2024

iFly Tip: Discover what happens behind the scenes during your flight with our airline pilot's explanation.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At ALB, picking up and dropping off passengers is a breeze. The airport provides curbside parking for those who need to quickly drop off or pick up passengers. However, it is important to note that curbside parking is strictly for active loading and unloading only. Vehicles cannot be left unattended, and drivers must stay with their vehicles at all times. Violators may be subject to towing or fines.

If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, the airport offers a convenient cell-phone waiting area located just a few minutes away from the terminals. This area allows drivers to park their vehicles for free and wait for their passengers to call once they have retrieved their luggage. Once the passenger is ready, the driver can quickly make their way to the curbside for pick up.

Parking Facilities & Options

ALB Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. The airport has both short-term and long-term parking options available, as well as a cell phone waiting area for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.

The short-term parking lot is located directly across from the terminal building, making it a convenient option for those who need to park for a few hours or less. The long-term parking lot is located a bit further away from the terminal, but still within walking distance. There are also covered parking garages available for those who prefer to park indoors.

For those who require handicapped parking, there are designated spots available in all of the parking lots and garages, conveniently located near the terminal building.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is also available. These lots are located just a short shuttle ride away from the airport and offer competitive rates.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Albany Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The rental car counters are located in the baggage claim area, and the rental cars are parked just outside the terminal. Car rental
  • Taxi services are available at the airport, with a designated pick-up area located outside the baggage claim area. The fares are metered, and the approximate cost to downtown Albany is around $25. Additional fees may apply for extra passengers or luggage.
  • Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are permitted to pick up passengers at the airport. The designated pick-up area is located outside the baggage claim area. However, there are restrictions on pick-up times, so it's best to check with the service provider for availability.
  • Airport shuttles are available for travelers who prefer a more convenient option. The shuttles operate 24/7 and provide transportation to various locations in Albany and surrounding areas. The pick-up area is located outside the baggage claim area, and the fares vary depending on the destination.
  • For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, public transportation is available. The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) provides bus services to and from the airport, with routes connecting to various locations in Albany and surrounding areas. The bus stop is located outside the terminal, and the fares start at $1.50.

iFly Tip: Discover the role of central airline hubs in efficient flight connections.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. Our comprehensive guide includes a variety of hotel options, from luxury accommodations to budget-friendly choices. These hotels not only offer a comfortable place to rest but also provide amenities such as complimentary airport shuttles, on-site dining, and fitness centers. Some of the hotels include the Hilton Garden Inn, Baymont by Wyndham, Tru By Hilton, and Hotel Trilogy, among others. To learn more about these hotels and to book your stay, check out our Airport Hotels page.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're traveling through Albany (NY) Airport, you're in luck! There are plenty of dining options to choose from, including Dunkin', Wolfgang Puck, Burger King, and more. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there's something for everyone. And when it comes to shopping, ALB has you covered with a variety of stores, from newsstands to tech stores to duty-free shops. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, browse the full directory here.

Passenger Services

Albany (NY) Airport provides a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible. Whether you need wifi access, lost and found, children's areas, special-needs services, banking, or medical help, the airport has got you covered.

Wifi access is available throughout the airport, so you can stay connected while waiting for your flight. If you lose something, the lost and found office is located in the main terminal. For families traveling with children, there are play areas located in Concourse B and Concourse C.

If you require special assistance, the airport offers a range of services to meet your needs. These include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and TTY phones for the hearing-impaired. Banking services are available in the main terminal, with ATMs located throughout the airport.

If you need medical help, there is a first aid station located in the main terminal. In case of emergency, there are defibrillators located throughout the airport. For any other questions or concerns, the airport information desk is located in the main terminal and is available to assist you.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at ALB. One of the most convenient ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS), which are located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another way to stay informed is to download the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines offer mobile apps that allow you to receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also choose to receive updates via text or email, depending on your preference. Make sure to check with your airline to see what options are available.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at ALB Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Albany International Airport (ALB) is located in Albany, New York, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the ALB Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Albany International Airport handles approximately 6,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 70 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from ALB are Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Charlotte, and Philadelphia.
  • Hub Status: Albany International Airport is a hub for Cape Air, a regional airline serving the Northeastern United States.

Airport History

Albany (NY) Airport, also known as Albany International Airport, is located in Colonie, New York. The airport has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1928: The airport was established as a grass airstrip known as Shaker Road Airport.
  • 1941: The airport was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces and renamed Albany Army Airfield.
  • 1945: The airport was returned to civilian control and renamed Albany County Airport.
  • 1950s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 1960s: The airport continued to expand, with the addition of new runways and taxiways.
  • 1990s: The airport underwent another major renovation, which included the construction of a new terminal building and parking garage.
  • 2000s: The airport continued to grow, with the addition of new airlines and destinations.
  • 2010s: The airport underwent another expansion, which included the construction of a new concourse and additional parking.

Today, ALB serves over 1.5 million passengers each year and continues to be an important hub for air travel in the Northeast United States.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Albany International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: ALB
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 518-242-2200
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Albany International Airport, Administration Building, Suite 200, Albany, NY 12211, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Albany Airport Q&A

The airport features four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 8 gates, Concourse B has 10 gates, and Concourse C has 4 gates.
Major airlines operating from the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. American and Delta operate from Concourse A, while Southwest and United use the Main Terminal.
Travelers can choose from car rentals, taxi services, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and public transportation via CDTA buses.
Dining options include Dunkin', Wolfgang Puck, and Burger King, among others. Shopping options range from newsstands to tech stores and duty-free shops, mainly located in the Main Terminal.
Passengers can use a free shuttle bus service running every 10-15 minutes or walk between terminals using covered walkways. The walk time varies between 5 to 10 minutes depending on the terminals.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking, as well as covered garages. There is also a free cell phone waiting area for picking up passengers.
The airport is undergoing modernization with $10.6 million in federal funding. New flight services include nonstop flights to Raleigh-Durham by Avelo Airlines and a second daily flight to Fort Lauderdale by JetBlue.
Consider grabbing snacks before heading to Concourse C due to limited options, and use the shuttle if you have heavy luggage. Also, check TSA wait times online to avoid delays.
Use the in-airport flight displays for real-time updates or download your airline's mobile app for notifications about flight status changes.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, TTY phones, and designated handicapped parking spots near the terminal.