๐บ๐ธ Limestone, United States of America
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.
Loring International Airport (LIZ) in Limestone, Maine, is a unique and significant general aviation hub, notable for its former life as a major Strategic Air Command base during the Cold War. For travelers requiring commercial flights, the nearest primary option is Presque Isle International Airport (PQI), located approximately 25 miles to the southwest via ME-89. You should coordinate with local agencies in Limestone or Presque Isle to have a vehicle delivered to the airfield with prior notice. Weather in the 'Crown of Maine' can be extreme, with the potential for heavy snow and localized morning fog during the winter months (November to April). Always reconfirm your transport 24 hours before departure to ensure a smooth transition.
It features one of the longest runways in the eastern United States (over 12,000 feet) and primarily serves as a vital base for large aircraft maintenance, private charters, and specialized flight testing. For those arriving at LIZ via private aircraft, ground transportation should be pre-arranged. Taxis are available in the local area but should be booked in advance of your landing. Pilots should always check for the latest NOTAMs and regional weather briefings.
While it does not host scheduled commercial airline service (like JetBlue or United), it is a critical hub for the regional industrial park and the surrounding Aroostook County region. While the facility provides professional pilot amenities including a comfortable lounge and flight planning room, there are no on-site car rental desks inside the terminal building. A unique tip for visitors is utilizing the airport's proximity to the historic Loring Military Heritage Center; many travelers utilize the airfield as a technical stop before exploring the unique natural beauty of the northern Maine wilderness. LIZ provides a quiet, professional, and welcoming arrival point for business leaders and researchers visiting the Loring Commerce Centre, provided all ground logistics are secured in advance to navigate the scenic rural highways.
โข Check ahead for limited amenities and operating hours.
โข Check your flight status before leaving for the airport.
โข Allow extra time during peak travel periods at this airport.
โข Keep important documents easily accessible at this airport.
โข Download your airline's mobile app for updates at this airport.
Minimum domestic connection:
45 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
60 minutes
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Last updated: April 2026 | Data Source: IATA and other airline sites and resources