RST Airport Insights & Guide
Key RST Airport Topics:- 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 RST Airport
Welcome to Rochester International Airport (RST), the only airport in Minnesota with a direct connection to Mayo Clinic via public transit, making it a crucial hub for medical travelers. Our compact yet modern airport ensures a seamless travel experience, offering easy access to southern Minnesota. Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for essential information on flight status, parking, shopping, and more, all designed to streamline your journey.
iFly Tip: Learn how to deal with lost luggage by reading our baggage info page.
Navigating RST's Terminals
The airport has one terminal building with two levels. The terminal has a total of 14 gates, with gates 1-6 located on the lower level and gates 7-14 on the upper level. The terminal is divided into two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B.
Concourse A is located on the lower level and houses gates 1-3. This concourse is primarily used by Delta Air Lines and Delta Connection. Concourse B is located on the upper level and houses gates 7-14. This concourse is primarily used by American Airlines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air.
Passengers can easily navigate the airport terminals with the help of clear signage and maps located throughout the terminal building. There are also information desks located in the terminal where passengers can ask for assistance or directions.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Rochester International Airport, there is only one terminal building, so passengers do not need to worry about getting between terminals. All gates, shops, and restaurants are located within the same building, making it easy to navigate and find your way around. The terminal is also equipped with moving walkways to help passengers get around quickly and comfortably.
Tips from RST Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Rochester International Airport (RST) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from RST-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 Delta, you'll be in Concourse A on the lower level. It’s a smaller airport, so everything is pretty close by, but keep an eye on the signs for quick navigation." — Emily J., Rochester, MN, December 2023
"For those using American Airlines or United, head to Concourse B on the upper level. The moving walkways are a great help if you're in a rush." — John K., Byron, MN, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The public buses are a reliable and economical way to get to downtown Rochester. They run frequently, and the stop is just outside the terminal." — Priya S., Stewartville, MN, March 2024
"For a quicker ride, I usually take a taxi or use a ride-share app like Uber. The pickup area is easy to find right outside the terminal." — Ahmed B., Kasson, MN, May 2024
Parking
"I prefer the long-term parking lot for trips longer than a few days. It’s just a short walk from the terminal and offers both covered and uncovered options." — Laura M., Pine Island, MN, June 2024
"If you're just picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It’s free and only a few minutes from the terminal." — Tom R., Zumbrota, MN, August 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick caffeine fix, Caribou Coffee in the main terminal is my go-to. It’s perfect for grabbing a coffee before a flight." — Mei L., Rochester, MN, September 2024
"If you have some time before your flight, check out the Minnesota Marketplace for unique local gifts and souvenirs. It’s worth a visit." — Carlos F., Eyota, MN, October 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check your flight status on the airport’s display boards or your airline’s app. It’s the best way to stay updated on any delays or gate changes." — Sarah T., Chatfield, MN, November 2024
"Arrive early, especially during peak travel times. The airport is small, but security lines can still get long." — David P., Lake City, MN, January 2024
iFly Tip: Make sure you're prepared by knowing the common mistakes at airport security.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At RST, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting area if they need to wait for their passengers.
The cell-phone waiting area is located just a short distance from the terminal building and is free to use. Drivers can park their vehicles here and wait for their passengers to call them once they have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up. This helps to reduce congestion at the curbside and ensures that the airport remains safe and secure for all passengers.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at RST Airport, there are several options available to travelers. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with both lots and garages available. The short-term parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal, making it a convenient option for those dropping off or picking up passengers. The long-term parking lot is located just a short walk from the terminal and offers both covered and uncovered parking options.
For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, RST also offers a cell phone waiting area located just minutes from the terminal. This area allows drivers to wait in their car until their passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in both the short-term and long-term parking lots, with designated spaces located near the terminal entrance for easy access.
For travelers looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is also available near RST. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can often be a more affordable option for longer trips.
Transportation Options
When arriving at Rochester International Airport (RST), travelers have several transportation options to choose from:
- Car Rentals: Rochester International Airport offers several car rental companies located within the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These companies provide a range of vehicles to suit different needs and offer convenient access right from the terminal. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to ensure availability.
- Taxis: Taxi services are readily available at RST, with multiple taxi companies providing transportation to and from the airport. The taxi drop-off and pick-up areas are located just outside the terminal building. Fares vary based on your destination, and it is recommended to inquire about the fare before starting your journey.
- Ride-Share Services: For a more budget-friendly option, shared ride services like Uber and Lyft are available at RST. The designated pickup area for these services is located outside the terminal building. Be mindful of any restrictions regarding the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed in these vehicles.
- Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle companies operate services to and from Rochester International Airport. These shuttles typically run on a fixed schedule and have pickup areas located outside the terminal building. Shuttle services are a convenient option for those traveling to nearby cities or hotels. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy travel times.
- Public Transportation: The Rochester Public Transit system operates several bus routes that serve the airport, providing an affordable transportation option to various destinations throughout the city. Bus stops are conveniently located near the airport, and tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or through the Rochester Public Transit website.
iFly Tip: Discover the critical role of pre-flight checks and how they ensure safety in our cockpit operations overview.
Airport Hotels
Whether you're seeking a short stay or a longer visit, a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious experience, we have a variety of hotel options conveniently located near the airport. From hotels with heated indoor swimming pools to those offering complimentary shuttle services to the renowned Mayo Clinic, there's something to suit every traveler's needs. Discover comfort, convenience, and connectivity to ensure a pleasant stay. Ready to explore your options? View our comprehensive list of Rochester Airport Hotels now.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Travelers passing through the Rochester International Airport will find a variety of dining and shopping options to choose from. For a quick bite, head to Caribou Coffee or Dunkin' Donuts, both located in the main terminal. For a sit-down meal, try the Rochester Airport Cafe, which offers classic American fare and is located near the baggage claim area. Another great option is the Cross Grain Brewhouse, which features a full menu of pub-style food and a selection of craft beers. This restaurant is located in the pre-security area of the airport.
When it comes to shopping, the Rochester International Airport has several stores to choose from. For last-minute travel essentials, head to the CNBC News store or the Hudson News store, both located in the main terminal. For something more unique, check out the Minnesota Marketplace, which offers a variety of locally-made gifts and souvenirs. This store is located in the pre-security area of the airport.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Rochester (MN) Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Rochester International Airport (RST) 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 available at the airport. Be sure to check with the airport staff for assistance.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, RST has a designated children's play 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: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Clinic: In case of a medical emergency or health concerns, a medical clinic is located on-site at RST.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight at all times. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at RST.
One of the most convenient ways to check your flight status is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display board located in your terminal and search for your flight information using the flight number or destination.
Another useful tool for staying informed about your flight status is by downloading your airline's mobile app. Most airlines offer mobile apps that allow you to receive push notifications about any changes to your flight, including gate changes, delays, or cancellations. You can also check your flight status and receive updates via text or email.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at RST 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: Rochester International Airport (RST) is located in Rochester, Minnesota, United States.
- Terminal: The airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the RST Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Rochester International handles approximately 3,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from RST are Minneapolis, Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, and Phoenix.
- Hub Status: Delta Air Lines is the largest carrier at RST, using it as a hub for regional flights. American Airlines and United Airlines also have a significant presence at the airport.
Airport History
Rochester International Airport, located in Rochester, Minnesota, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1928: The airport was established as a small grass airstrip.
- 1941: The airport was taken over by the U.S. Army Air Corps and used as a training base during World War II.
- 1946: The airport was returned to civilian control and commercial flights resumed.
- 1960s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the addition of a new terminal building and runway.
- 1995: The airport was renamed Rochester (MN) Airport to reflect its growing importance as a regional hub.
- 2007: The airport completed a $79 million renovation project, which included the construction of a new terminal building and parking garage.
- 2019: The airport announced plans to build a new air traffic control tower and expand its cargo facilities to accommodate growing demand.
Today, RST serves over 400,000 passengers annually and continues to play a vital role in the region's transportation infrastructure.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Rochester International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: RST
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 507-282-2328
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Rochester International Airport, 7600 Helgerson Dr SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Rochester International Airport Q&A
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