Loring International Airport (LIZ)

Loring International Airport (LIZ), identified by its FAA LID ME16, is a specialized aviation and industrial facility located in Limestone, Maine, on the site of the former Loring Air Force Base. As a former strategic bomber base during the Cold War, the airport does not possess a traditional commercial passenger terminal with standard airline services. Instead, the facility's operations are centered around a dedicated general aviation terminal that functions as a combined Fixed-Base Operation (FBO) and administrative hub for private, corporate, and cargo aircraft. The terminal structure provides essential amenities tailored to the needs of general aviation pilots and business travelers. Inside, visitors have access to basic waiting areas and essential administrative services managed by the Loring Development Authority (LDA). While the facility lacks the extensive retail and dining options of major commercial hubs, it offers a professional environment for flight coordination and logistical support. The airport is notable for its massive infrastructure, including the historic Arch Hangar and two 12,101-foot runways, which are among the longest in the state of Maine and capable of accommodating the largest aircraft in the world. Ground transportation to and from the LIZ terminal is primarily managed via private vehicles and local arrangements, as the airport is located approximately three miles from the Limestone town center. There are currently no scheduled commercial airline services operating at Loring, with the nearest passenger hub being Presque Isle International Airport (PQI), located about 17 miles to the southwest. Due to its status as a private-use facility, prior permission is required for all landings, and operations are typically restricted to daylight hours under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). The airfield remains a critical site for future aerospace development and regional cargo logistics in northern Maine.