Aiken Regional Airport (AIK)

Aiken Regional Airport (AIK) is a premier general aviation and corporate aviation facility located seven miles north of the historic city of Aiken, South Carolina. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and exceptional service, the airport serves as a critical gateway for the region's prominent equestrian community and the nearby Savannah River Site. Most notably, AIK acts as a primary reliever airport for the annual Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia, providing high-capacity aircraft parking and specialized handling for corporate jets ranging from light turboprops to long-range Global Express aircraft. The terminal experience at Aiken is centered around the well-appointed facilities of Aiken Aviation, the resident Fixed-Base Operator (FBO). Inside the terminal building, passengers and flight crews have access to a comfortable customer lounge equipped with high-definition televisions and high-speed Wi-Fi. For aviators, the facility provides a dedicated pilot lounge, a professional flight-planning room, and a quiet room for rest between missions. During the high-traffic Masters week, the terminal expands its services to include complimentary meals and refreshments for visiting crews, reflecting the classic Southern hospitality for which the city of Aiken is famous. Operational efficiency is a hallmark of the Aiken terminal, particularly during major regional events. The airport features a 5,000-foot primary runway and expansive ramp space that can accommodate a significant volume of private air traffic. During the first week of April, the facility implements specialized air traffic control procedures, including temporary towers and preferred arrival routes, to ensure the safe and rapid movement of tournament visitors. Beyond golf, the terminal remains a year-round hub for business and recreational flying, offering on-site rental car services through providers like Go Rentals and providing a professional, non-congested alternative to the larger commercial airports in the Central Savannah River Area.