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Altoona–Blair County Airport (AOO), originally dedicated as Cove-Valley Airport in 1938, has served as a vital aviation gateway for Central Pennsylvania for over eight decades. Owned and operated by the Blair County Airport Authority since 1952, it became the county's primary commercial aviation facility following the closure of the nearby Duncansville Airport in the 1950s. Today, it remains a critical link for the region's economic and educational sectors.
The airport features a modern, 50,000-square-foot passenger terminal designed for maximum efficiency and traveler comfort. Passengers benefit from professional TSA security services, free short-term and long-term parking, and a variety of modern tech amenities including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and dedicated device charging stations. The facility also houses a 90-foot air traffic control tower and a modern aircraft fueling facility, ensuring high standards of safety and operational readiness for both commercial and general aviation.
A standout feature of the terminal is 'La Fiesta,' a popular Mexican restaurant located on the second floor. Offering a unique dining experience, the restaurant is accessible from both the public landside area and the flight line, allowing travelers, pilots, and local residents to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, including favorites like fajitas and chimichangas. The restaurant also provides a selection of beer and wine, making it a favorite spot for a meal with views of the active airfield.
As a participant in the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) program, the airport ensures reliable connectivity for the region with daily commercial jet service to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) operated by Contour Airlines. This service is particularly important for the local business community and students at Penn State Altoona, located approximately 50 miles away. With its compact design and quick check-in processes, AOO provides a stress-free alternative to larger, more congested metropolitan airports for those traveling to and from the heart of Pennsylvania.
Airlines Serving AOO
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Altoona Blair County Airport (AOO) operates as a critical regional gateway through the federal Alternate Essential Air Service (AEAS) program, receiving nearly $28 million in four-year funding to provide daily nonstop service to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) via Contour Airlines. Located in Martinsburg, Pennsylvania, 14 miles south of Altoona, the airport switched from Philadelphia service to Charlotte effective October 1, 2024, now offering one-way tickets starting at just $74 with access to over 180 worldwide destinations through the Charlotte hub. Contour Airlines operates 30-passenger jets with an exceptional 100% completion rate that exceeds the Department of Transportation's budgeted 97% rate, requiring periodic schedule adjustments to balance federal subsidy limits of $6,492,990 annually. The compact terminal design ensures efficient connections with TSA security screening typically completed within 15 minutes, though arriving 60-90 minutes before departure is recommended for stress-free processing.
The 50,000-square-foot terminal features professional amenities including free Wi-Fi, device charging stations, complimentary short-term and long-term parking, and the unique 'La Fiesta' Mexican restaurant on the second floor offering runway views and full dining service accessible from both landside and airside areas. Ground transportation includes major rental car agencies (Hertz, Avis, Fox) with counters in the terminal, 24-hour taxi services meeting all flights, and ride-sharing apps providing connections to central Altoona (30-minute drive) and Penn State Altoona campus. The airport's 90-foot air traffic control tower and modern fueling facilities support both commercial operations and general aviation activity.
With a current 55% load factor matching DOT projections, the Charlotte route demonstrates growing success for regional connectivity. The facility's original 1938 origins as Cove-Valley Airport and transition to Blair County Airport Authority ownership in 1952 established its role as Central Pennsylvania's primary commercial aviation facility. Free parking fills quickly during race weekends and peak travel periods, making early arrival advisable for convenient parking spots near the terminal.
Expert Travel Tips & Insights
Pro Traveler Secrets
• Parking is free at Altoona but fills fast on race weekends available.
• Arriving early ensures a convenient spot at this airport.
• Check your flight status before leaving for the airport.
• Allow extra time during peak travel periods at this airport.
• Keep important documents easily accessible at this airport.
Quick Facts
Minimum domestic connection:
60 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
120 minutes
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