Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA)

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) is a modern and efficient aviation gateway to the Texas Panhandle, located approximately six miles east of downtown Amarillo. Named in honor of NASA astronaut and Amarillo native Rick Husband, the airport serves as a critical link for the region's robust agricultural, energy, and tourism sectors. This airport operates a single, two-level passenger terminal building with 12 gates, completed through a $52.2 million renovation in 2011 and rededicated to NASA astronaut Rick Husband in 2003, handling daily scheduled flights from major carriers including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, which provide essential connections to hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Dallas Love Field (DAL), and Denver (DEN).

The terminal experience at Amarillo is characterized by its clean, spacious design and its straightforward, user-friendly layout. The lower level is dedicated to arrivals and baggage claim, while the upper level hosts the airline check-in counters and a centralized TSA security checkpoint. Post-security, passengers have access to a comfortable main concourse with amenities including the full-service Ranch Kitchen & Cocktails restaurant, a Dunkin' Donuts, and several gift shops. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and designated business areas offer convenient charging stations for travelers needing to stay connected. The single-terminal design ensures that all gates are just a short walk away, making for a stress-free and efficient passenger journey.

Operational excellence is a hallmark of the AMA terminal, which is also home to a dynamic general aviation community supported by two state-of-the-art Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs), Signature Aviation and Haven FBO. These facilities provide comprehensive services for private and military aircraft, including fueling, maintenance, and modern pilot lounges. The airport's two long runways, including a 13,502-foot runway that is one of the longest in the country, make it a popular refueling stop and a designated Space Shuttle launch-abort site. For visitors, the airport represents a professional and welcoming entry point to the iconic landscapes of the American West, offering immediate access to historic Route 66 and the dramatic beauty of nearby Palo Duro Canyon State Park.