MSN Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know MSN Airport
Discover the ease of flying from Madison Dane County Airport (MSN), a gateway nestled in Wisconsin's capital, offering a seamless and comfortable travel experience. MSN stands out with its unique art exhibits, showcasing local talent and providing a cultural touch to your journey. This guide simplifies your travel with essential information on flight statuses, terminal details, parking, dining, and shopping. Navigate MSN effortlessly and for more airport insights, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.
iFly Tip: Prepare for a smooth journey with children by visiting our comprehensive guide.
Navigating MSN's Terminals
The airport has one main terminal with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 6 gates and Concourse B has 4 gates. The airport is mainly served by three major airlines: Delta, American, and United. Delta and American operate out of Concourse A while United operates out of Concourse B.
As you enter the airport, you will find the ticket counters for all airlines on the left side of the terminal. Once you have checked in, you can proceed to the security checkpoint which is located in the center of the terminal. After passing through security, you will find yourself in the main terminal area where you can access both concourses.
Concourse A offers a variety of food and beverage options including a coffee shop, a bar, and a restaurant. Concourse B has fewer options but still offers a coffee shop and a snack bar. Both concourses have restrooms and charging stations for electronic devices.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Madison Dane County Airport has only one terminal, the Main Terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. However, if you need to get to a specific gate, you can easily walk from one end of the terminal to the other in less than 10 minutes. There are no train or shuttle bus options available as the airport is small enough to navigate on foot.
Tips from MSN Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Madison Dane County Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MSN-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
"When you arrive at MSN, everything is pretty straightforward. The terminal is compact, so even if you have a tight connection, you can get from Concourse A to B in under 10 minutes. Keep an eye out for the local artwork near the gates; it's a nice touch that makes waiting a bit more pleasant." — John D., Sun Prairie, WI, January 2024
"If you’re flying with United, head straight to Concourse B after security. It’s less crowded, and you can grab a quick coffee at the snack bar before boarding." — Emily W., Middleton, WI, March 2024
Getting To/From the City
"Madison Metro Route 20 is a great budget-friendly way to get downtown. It picks up right outside baggage claim. If you're in a hurry, though, Uber or Lyft might be faster, especially during peak hours." — Raj P., Fitchburg, WI, February 2024
"I always recommend booking a GO Riteway shuttle in advance if you’re heading to one of the nearby hotels. They’re reliable and can save you some hassle after a long flight." — Lisa K., Monona, WI, April 2024
Parking
"For short trips, the on-site parking garage is super convenient, but if you’re going to be away for more than a few days, consider the off-airport lots. They’re cheaper, and the shuttle service is pretty efficient." — Mark R., Waunakee, WI, May 2024
"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It’s free for 30 minutes, and you can just swing by the curb once your guest is ready." — Sarah L., Verona, WI, June 2024
Inside the Airport
"Before you go through security, grab a bite at the Great Dane Pub. Their local brews are worth trying if you have time to relax." — Tom H., Cottage Grove, WI, July 2024
"Don’t miss the Wisconsin Marketplace for last-minute gifts. They have some unique local products that are perfect for souvenirs." — Anna F., DeForest, WI, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the flight status displays frequently. They’re updated in real-time, so you can keep track of any changes to your departure or gate." — Mike T., McFarland, WI, September 2024
"Security lines here are usually quick, but it never hurts to arrive early. Use the time to explore the art exhibits or grab a coffee if you breeze through." — Jessica M., Stoughton, WI, October 2024
iFly Tip: Stay ahead of the curve with advice on minimizing delays from our airport wait times page.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At MSN Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers must remain in their vehicles at all times while waiting for passengers.
If drivers need to wait for their arriving passengers, there is a designated cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area is free to use and allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and collected their luggage. Once passengers have arrived, drivers can then proceed to the curbside for pick-up.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are multiple lots and garages located within close proximity to the main terminal, making it easy to park and catch your flight.
If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes while you wait for your party to arrive.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, and designated spaces are located near the terminal for easy access.
For those looking for an economical option, off-airport parking is available with shuttle service to the terminal. This can be a great way to save money on parking fees while still ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience.
Transportation Options
Madison Airport offers a variety of transportation options to help travelers get to their final destination:
- Car Rentals: Madison Airport provides several car rental facilities located in the baggage claim area. Major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with a taxi stand located outside of the baggage claim area. Fares are determined by the meter, and drop-off areas are conveniently located near the terminal entrance.
- Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available for pickup outside of the baggage claim area. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
- Airport Shuttles: GO Riteway provides 24/7 shuttle service to nearby hotels and other destinations. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares vary depending on the destination. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
- Public Transportation: The Madison Metro bus system serves the airport, with Route 20 connecting the airport to downtown Madison and other destinations. The bus stop is located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares are determined by the distance traveled. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or online.
iFly Tip: Skip the hassle of removing shoes and belts with TSA PreCheck.
Airport Hotels
When traveling, finding the right hotel near the airport can make your trip much more convenient. Whether you're in town for a quick business trip, visiting a renowned university, or exploring a vibrant downtown, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels, these establishments cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Most of these hotels are located within a short distance from the airport, ensuring easy access for air travelers. Many are also in close proximity to major highways, providing easy access to various city attractions. They offer an array of amenities, including fitness centers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and even fully-equipped kitchen suites. Regardless of your purpose of visit or budget, you're sure to find a suitable accommodation option. To explore more, view all Dane County Airport Hotels here.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at Madison Airport (MSN), you won't be disappointed. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit every taste and budget.
For a quick snack or coffee, head to Ancora Artisan Coffee & Tea or the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. Both are located in the main terminal and offer a cozy atmosphere to relax before your flight. If you're looking for a heartier meal, try the delicious burgers at Dotty Dumpling's Dowry or the Mexican-inspired dishes at Pedro's Mexican Restaurante. Both restaurants are located just outside the main terminal and offer a unique dining experience.
When it comes to shopping, the airport has a variety of options to choose from. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the Wisconsin Marketplace or the Madison News & Gifts store. If you need to stock up on travel essentials, head to the Hudson store for a wide selection of snacks, magazines, and travel accessories.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at MSN can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Dane County Regional Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the main terminal for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Dane County Regional Airport features a designated children's play area near the gate area.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: An ATM is available in the main terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the main terminal. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to check the status of your flight at MSN Airport.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display that corresponds with your flight and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to your flight status. This can include departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at the 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: Madison Dane County Airport (MSN) is located in Madison, Wisconsin, United States.
- Terminals: The airport features one main terminal.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the MSN Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Madison Dane County Airport handles approximately 3,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MSN are Atlanta, Chicago, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Denver.
- Hub Status: Madison Dane County Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although Delta Air Lines and American Airlines operate numerous flights from the airport.
Airport History
MSN Airport, located in Madison, Wisconsin, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1919: The airport was established as a municipal airport.
- 1936: The airport was renamed Truax Field in honor of Lieutenant Thomas L. Truax, a local pilot who died in a plane crash.
- 1942: The airport was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and used as a training base.
- 1946: The airport was returned to civilian control after the war.
- 1958: The airport was renamed Dane County Regional Airport.
- 1985: The airport was renamed Dane County Regional Airport-Truax Field to honor Lieutenant Truax once again.
- 2009: The airport was renamed Madison Dane County Regional Airport to better reflect its location and to avoid confusion with other airports in the region.
- 2017: The airport completed a $40 million renovation project that included a new terminal building, parking garage, and other improvements.
Today, the airport serves over 1 million passengers each year and is an important transportation hub for the region.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Madison Dane County Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: MSN
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 608-246-3380
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Madison Dane County Regional Airport, 4000 International Lane, Madison, WI 53704, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Madison Dane County Airport Q&A
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