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Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport MKE Airport Traveler Guide

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MKE Airport Insights & Guide

Key MKE Airport Topics:

Getting to Know MKE Airport

Welcome to our Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport Online Guide. Serving as the largest airport in Wisconsin, MKE is renowned for its easy navigation and efficient services. This guide is tailored to help you, whether you're departing, connecting, or arriving at this well-organized hub. If your travel itinerary includes other airports, do explore our comprehensive guide to worldwide airports for more insights and information.

iFly Tip: Discover how to secure the best parking deals on our comprehensive guide.

MKE Airport has four terminals, including Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, and the Main Terminal. Concourse C has 10 gates, Concourse D has 14 gates, Concourse E has 8 gates, and the Main Terminal has 48 gates. Major airlines that operate out of MKE include Delta, Southwest, United, and American Airlines, among others.

To navigate the airport terminals, passengers can use the moving walkways and escalators to get to their gates quickly. The airport also provides shuttle services that run between the Main Terminal and the Concourses. Passengers can also use the airport's interactive maps to locate their airline departure gates and other services.

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

Connecting Between Terminals

At the airport, getting between terminals is a breeze. The airport has one main terminal and three concourses: Concourse C, Concourse D, and Concourse E. The main terminal is located in the center of the airport and is connected to Concourse D and Concourse E by pedestrian walkways. These walkways are located on the upper level of the terminal and are easily accessible via escalators and elevators. The walk time between the main terminal and Concourse D is approximately 5-10 minutes, while the walk time between the main terminal and Concourse E is approximately 10-15 minutes.

To get to Concourse C, passengers can take the complimentary shuttle bus service that operates between the main terminal and Concourse C. The shuttle bus runs every 10 minutes and the ride takes approximately 5 minutes. The shuttle bus pick-up and drop-off locations are located on the lower level of the main terminal, near baggage claim.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport (MKE) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MKE-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

"MKE has a straightforward layout with one main terminal divided into Concourses C, D, and E. If you're flying Southwest, you'll be in Concourse C. For Delta and United, head to Concourse D. Make sure to check the airport maps online before you arrive to familiarize yourself with the layout." — John M., Wauwatosa, WI, August 2023

"The signage at MKE is very clear, but if you ever get lost, just look for the information desks located near the security checkpoints. The staff there are always helpful and can guide you to your gate or any other facility you need." — Emily R., Oak Creek, WI, September 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The Amtrak station is conveniently connected to the airport via a shuttle bus, which runs every 10-15 minutes. It's a great option if you're coming from downtown Milwaukee or other nearby cities." — David K., Racine, WI, October 2023

"For those driving to the airport, I recommend using the off-site parking lots. They are cheaper and offer free shuttle services to the terminal. Just make sure to book in advance during peak travel seasons." — Lisa P., West Allis, WI, November 2023

Parking

"If you're parking at MKE, the SuperSaver lot is the best value. It's a bit further from the terminal, but the shuttle service is frequent and reliable. You can save a lot compared to the closer lots." — Michael T., Glendale, WI, December 2023

"For short trips, the hourly parking garage is very convenient. It's right next to the terminal, so you can get in and out quickly. Just keep in mind that it fills up fast during holidays." — Karen L., Greenfield, WI, January 2024

Inside the Airport

"If you have some time before your flight, check out the Mitchell Gallery of Flight near Concourse C. It's a small museum dedicated to aviation history and a nice way to spend some time." — Steve H., Franklin, WI, February 2024

"For food, I highly recommend stopping by the Milwaukee Marketplace in Concourse D. They have a variety of local Wisconsin foods, including cheese curds and bratwurst, which are must-tries!" — Rachel W., Brookfield, WI, March 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"To avoid long security lines, try to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times. The TSA PreCheck line is usually much shorter if you have that option." — Tom S., Mequon, WI, April 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays around the airport. They are updated frequently and can give you a heads-up on any delays or gate changes. It’s also a good idea to download your airline’s app for real-time updates." — Jessica B., South Milwaukee, WI, May 2024

iFly Tip: Make the gate pass request process simpler with help from our gate pass tips.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At MKE, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal or any of the three concourses: Concourse C, Concourse D, and Concourse E. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers must stay with their vehicles at all times while waiting for passengers.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, there are cell-phone waiting areas located near the airport. These areas are free and provide a convenient place to wait until passengers are ready to be picked up. Once passengers are ready, drivers can quickly make their way to the curbside for pick-up.

Parking Facilities & Options

MKE Airport offers a range of parking options to suit every traveler's needs. There are several on-site parking options available, including surface lots and parking garages. The surface lots are located near the terminal and offer a convenient option for short-term parking. The parking garages are located adjacent to the terminal and provide covered parking for long-term stays.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, the airport offers a cell phone waiting lot. This area allows drivers to park for free and wait for their passengers to call and let them know they are ready for pick up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking facilities. Designated parking spaces are located near the elevators in the parking garages and near the terminal in the surface lots. Shuttle buses are also equipped with wheelchair lifts for easy transportation to and from the parking facilities.

Off-airport parking is also available and can be a more economical option for travelers. Several off-site parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and some even offer additional services such as car detailing and oil changes.

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

Transportation Options

The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport.

Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz all having a presence. The rental car counters are located in the baggage claim area of the main terminal, and the rental cars are parked outside the terminal building.

Taxi services are also available, with taxi stands located outside of the baggage claim area. The fare from the airport to downtown Milwaukee is approximately $30.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. The pickup area for these services is located outside of the baggage claim area, and there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed in the vehicle.

Airport shuttles are available for travelers who need transportation to hotels or other destinations in the area. The shuttle pickup area is located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares vary depending on the destination.

Public transportation options include the Milwaukee County Transit System, which operates buses from the airport to downtown Milwaukee and other destinations in the area. The bus stop is located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares start at $2.25.

iFly Tip: Understand the complexities of cockpit communication and protocols by checking out our cockpit operation guide.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're on a quick layover or a longer stay, finding the right hotel near the airport can make all the difference. From hotels offering complimentary airport shuttle services to those with fitness centers and conference facilities, we've compiled a list of some of the best options for you. Each hotel is unique in its offerings, with some providing private parking, others boasting a fitness center, and some offering concierge services. To find out more, check out our comprehensive guide on General Mitchell Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for some delicious food or a bit of retail therapy during your time at Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport, you're in luck. With a variety of options available across Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, and the Main Terminal, there's something for everyone.

For a quick bite to eat, head to Auntie Anne's in Concourse C for a soft pretzel or two. If you're in the mood for something heartier, try the Milwaukee Burger Company in Concourse D for a juicy burger and fries. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, make your way to the Miller Brewhouse in the Main Terminal for a delicious meal and a cold beer.

When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. Pick up some last-minute souvenirs at the Wisconsin Marketplace in the Main Terminal, or treat yourself to a new pair of headphones at the InMotion Entertainment store in Concourse E. If you're in need of some reading material for your flight, head to the Hudson News in Concourse C.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Milwaukee Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport offers a range of passenger services to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for all passengers.

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, so if you misplace an item, you can report it immediately.

If you are traveling with children, there are designated play areas available in Concourse C and Concourse D. The airport also offers special needs services, including wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities.

For those who need to do some banking, there are several ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport. Additionally, medical help is available at the airport for any emergencies or medical needs.

Overall, Milwaukee Airport provides a range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for all passengers.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at MKE.

One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminals. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate assignments. Simply locate the display for your airline and flight number to get the latest updates.

Another way to stay informed is to download your airline's mobile app. Many airlines offer apps that allow you to receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also check the app for real-time updates on your flight status.

If you prefer to receive updates via text or email, you can sign up for alerts through your airline's website. Simply enter your flight information and contact details to receive updates as they happen.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at MKE 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: Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport (MKE) is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features four terminals: Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, and the Main Terminal.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the MKE Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport handles approximately 20,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 200 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MKE are Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, and Phoenix.
  • Hub Status: Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and Frontier Airlines.

Airport History

Milwaukee Airport, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • In 1919, the airport was established as Hamilton Airport, named after the founder of the Hamilton Manufacturing Company.
  • In 1926, the airport was renamed Milwaukee County Airport and became the first airport in the United States to be owned by a county.
  • In 1941, the airport was renamed General Mitchell Field in honor of General Billy Mitchell, a Milwaukee native and aviation pioneer.
  • During World War II, General Mitchell Field served as an important training and supply base for the U.S. military.
  • In 1955, the airport was renamed Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport to reflect its growing role in international travel.
  • In 1985, a major renovation and expansion project was completed, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • In 2019, the airport celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of events and activities.

Today, Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport serves millions of passengers each year and continues to play an important role in the aviation industry.

Airport Contact Information

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

  • IATA Code: MKE
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 414-747-5300
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, 5300 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207, United States

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

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Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport Q&A

MKE offers several parking options including surface lots, parking garages, and a free cell phone waiting lot. Off-airport parking is also available with shuttle services.
A complimentary shuttle bus service operates between the Main Terminal and Concourse C every 10 minutes. The ride takes approximately 5 minutes.
Yes, the Milwaukee County Transit System bus is a great budget-friendly option. It costs $2.25 and the stop is right outside baggage claim.
Popular dining options include Milwaukee Burger Company in Concourse D and Miller Brewhouse in the Main Terminal.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
You can check flight status using the in-airport flight displays, your airline's mobile app, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport offering amenities like complimentary shuttle services, fitness centers, and conference facilities.
The top airlines with the most daily flights are Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines.
The Wisconsin Marketplace in the Main Terminal offers a great selection of local souvenirs.
Lost and found services are available at the airport. You can report a lost item immediately.