Acadiana Regional Airport (ARA)

Acadiana Regional Airport (ARA), located in New Iberia, Louisiana, is a major general aviation and industrial facility situated on the grounds of the former Naval Air Station New Iberia. The airport is distinguished by its extensive infrastructure, including an 8,002-foot runway capable of accommodating large cargo and military aircraft. While it does not offer scheduled commercial passenger service, it serves as a critical hub for the region's economy, particularly supporting helicopter operations for the offshore oil and gas industry, as well as aircraft maintenance, painting, and cargo logistics.

Instead of a traditional passenger terminal, the airport operates through Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) that cater to private pilots, corporate crews, and industrial tenants. Travelers arriving by private aircraft will find modern facilities offering pilot lounges, flight planning rooms, and conference areas. Security protocols are managed by the individual FBOs and tenant companies, with no TSA screening checkpoints present for the general public. The atmosphere is professional and focused on aviation support rather than mass transit.

Amenities at Acadiana Regional are centered around the needs of aviation personnel. The FBOs typically provide refreshments, Wi-Fi, and courtesy cars for crew members. For those with extended wait times, the airport is a short drive from New Iberia's historic district, famous for its Cajun cuisine and the Tabasco factory on Avery Island. The airport's location off Highway 90 makes it a convenient alternative to Lafayette Regional Airport for general aviation traffic entering the Acadiana region.