BMI Airport Insights & Guide
Key BMI 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 BMI Airport
Welcome to Bloomington Airport, the heart of Illinois and home to the unique "Prairie Aviation Museum." This airport not only facilitates your travel needs but also offers a glimpse into aviation history, ensuring a memorable start to your journey. Our guide simplifies your travel with essential information on flight status, terminals, parking, and more, all while guiding you to the best dining and shopping spots. For a deeper dive into airport insights, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.
iFly Tip: Streamline your travel with insights from our airport info guide.
Navigating BMI's Terminals
Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport has one main terminal with two concourses, A and B. Concourse A has 5 gates and Concourse B has 4 gates. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United operate out of this airport and use both concourses. The airport also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and services available for passengers to enjoy before their flight.
To navigate the airport terminals, passengers can follow the signs located throughout the terminal to find their airline's check-in counter and departure gate. The airport also has information booths located throughout the terminal where passengers can ask for assistance or directions. For those with mobility issues, the airport offers wheelchair assistance upon request.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Bloomington Airport, there is only one terminal, the Main Terminal. Therefore, passengers do not need to worry about getting between terminals. Upon arrival, passengers can easily navigate the Main Terminal to find their baggage claim, ground transportation options, and other amenities. The Main Terminal is relatively small, so walking times are minimal. However, if passengers require assistance or have mobility issues, airport staff can provide shuttle services to help them navigate the terminal.
Tips from BMI Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BMI-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 BMI, keep an eye out for the clear signage that guides you to your specific airline's check-in area. It's a small airport, so you'll find everything within a short walking distance. If you’re ever unsure, the information booth near the entrance is very helpful." — Emily T., Normal, IL, December 2023
"For those with mobility issues, don't hesitate to request wheelchair assistance right at the entrance. The staff is very accommodating and ensures a smooth journey through the terminal." — John K., Bloomington, IL, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The Connect Transit bus system is a lifesaver if you're looking to save on transportation costs. It's reliable and stops right outside the terminal, making it easy to get to downtown Bloomington." — Priya S., Normal, IL, March 2024
"If you're using rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft, head to the designated pick-up area. It's well-marked and easy for drivers to find you quickly." — Carlos M., Bloomington, IL, May 2024
Parking
"For long trips, I always use the Economy Lot. It's much cheaper than the Main Terminal lot, and the shuttle service is frequent and quick." — Sarah L., Champaign, IL, June 2024
"If you're picking someone up, the Cell Phone Waiting Area is super convenient. It's close to the terminal, and you can wait there for free until your passenger is ready." — Tom R., Peoria, IL, August 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick bite before your flight, Dunkin' Donuts is my go-to. It's perfect for grabbing a coffee and a sandwich on the run." — Lisa W., Decatur, IL, September 2024
"Don't miss Avanti's Italian Restaurant if you have some time. Their pasta dishes are a great way to enjoy a sit-down meal before boarding." — Ahmed N., Springfield, IL, October 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"I recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before your flight. Though BMI is small, security lines can be unpredictable, especially during peak times." — Megan P., Urbana, IL, November 2024
"Use the airline apps to check your flight status. They provide real-time updates, which helps in managing any unexpected delays or gate changes." — David J., Bloomington, IL, January 2024
iFly Tip: Get the full picture of your flight journey with our pilot's guide to flying.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When it comes to picking up and dropping off passengers at the airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, curbside parking is strictly prohibited at the airport. This means that drivers cannot park at the curb to wait for passengers or load/unload luggage. Instead, there are designated areas for drop-off and pick-up located near the terminal entrance.
If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, there is a cell-phone waiting area available. This area is located off-site, but close enough to the terminal for a quick pick-up. Drivers can park for free in this area and wait for their passenger to call or text when they are ready to be picked up. Once you receive the call, you can quickly make your way to the terminal to pick up your passenger.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're flying out of Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport, you'll find a range of parking options to suit your needs. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking in its on-site lots and garages. The Main Terminal lot is the closest option and is ideal for short-term parking. The Economy Lot is a more affordable option for longer stays, and a shuttle service runs between the lot and the terminal building.
If you're waiting to pick up arriving passengers, you can use the Cell Phone Waiting Area located just outside the terminal. This area allows you to wait in your car until your passenger has landed and collected their luggage, at which point you can drive to the terminal to pick them up.
Handicapped parking is available in all on-site lots and garages, with designated spaces located close to the terminal building. If you have any specific needs or requirements, contact the airport in advance to ensure that your needs can be accommodated.
Off-airport parking is also available near BMI, with several private lots offering affordable rates and shuttle services to the terminal building. This can be a great option if you're looking to save money on parking fees.
Get details about BMI parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
When arriving at Bloomington Airport (BMI), there are several ground transportation options available to travelers.
- Car rental: Car rental facilities are located on the lower level of the terminal building, and major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available for rental.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available outside of the baggage claim area, and fares are determined by the meter. Drop-off areas are located near the terminal entrance.
- Ride share services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available for pickup in the designated rideshare area outside of the terminal. However, there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
- Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for transportation to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares vary depending on the shuttle service provider.
- Public transportation: Public transportation options include the Connect Transit bus system, which provides service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of the terminal building, and fares are determined by the distance traveled.
iFly Tip: Skip the hassle of removing shoes and belts with TSA PreCheck.
Airport Hotels
Whether you're a business traveler in need of a convenient location or a tourist looking to explore, finding a suitable hotel near the airport can significantly enhance your travel experience. Our guide provides an overview of some of the best hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious accommodations. These hotels not only offer a comfortable stay but also provide amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, airport shuttles, and in-house dining options. From the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, an IHG Hotel, which is just 0.7 miles from the airport, to the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington, located 2.7 miles away, there's a wide range of options to suit every traveler's needs. View all Bloomington Normal Airport Hotels now, including rates, on a map.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
BMI offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite, head to Dunkin' Donuts or Subway, both located in the main terminal. For a sit-down meal, try Avanti's Italian Restaurant, which serves up delicious pasta dishes and sandwiches. You can find Avanti's near the baggage claim area.
When it comes to shopping, there are a few options to choose from. For last-minute travel essentials, visit the Hudson News store, which offers books, magazines, snacks, and more. If you're looking for a gift or souvenir, check out the Prairie State Marketplace, which features locally-made products like candles, jewelry, and artwork. You can find both of these stores in the main terminal.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at BMI Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, click here to navigate the options.
Passenger Services
BMI, also known as BMI, is a small airport located in the United States. Despite its size, it offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible.
For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at the airport's information desk. If you're traveling with children, there are designated play areas to keep them entertained. Special-needs services are available upon request, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.
If you need to do some banking, there is an ATM located in the main terminal. Additionally, medical help is available at the airport's first aid station. If you have any questions or concerns, the airport's friendly staff is always available to assist you.
Flight Status Info
When traveling by air, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. One way to do this is by checking the in-airport flight displays (FIDS), which provide real-time information about flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. These displays are located throughout the airport, and are easy to find. Simply look for the nearest display and search for your flight number.
Another way to stay informed about your flight status is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own app that you can download for free. These apps allow you to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes directly to your phone. You can also check your flight status and receive updates on any changes to your itinerary. Some airlines also offer text, email, and push notifications that you can sign up for to receive updates about your flight.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at BMI 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: Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) is located in McLean County, Illinois, United States.
- Terminals: The airport has one main terminal building that handles all passenger traffic.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. For a list of all airlines, check out the BMI Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport handles approximately 2,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from BMI are Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, and Minneapolis/St. Paul.
- Hub Status: Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although American Airlines and Delta Air Lines operate significant flights from the airport.
Airport History
Bloomington Airport, also known as BMI, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1915 - The airport was established as a grass airstrip known as the Normal-Bloomington Aviation Field.
- 1927 - The airport was officially named Bloomington Municipal Airport.
- 1942 - The airport was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces and used as a training base during World War II.
- 1946 - The airport was returned to civilian control and renamed Bloomington-Normal Airport.
- 1955 - The airport's runway was extended to 6,000 feet to accommodate larger aircraft.
- 1976 - The airport was renamed Central Illinois Regional Airport to reflect its growing importance in the region.
- 1990 - The airport's terminal was expanded and renovated to better serve passengers.
- 2010 - The airport completed a major runway reconstruction project to improve safety and efficiency.
Today, BMI continues to serve the Bloomington-Normal area and surrounding communities with daily flights to major hubs across the country.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Central Illinois Regional Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: BMI
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 309-663-7383
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Central Illinois Regional Airport, 3201 CIRA Drive, Suite 200, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport Q&A
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