โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Esler Regional Airport (KESF) operates with two substantial asphalt runways covering 2,161 acres at 112 feet elevation: Runway 09/27 measuring 5,999 by 150 feet and Runway 14/32 measuring 5,601 by 150 feet, both capable of handling heavy aircraft including Boeing 737s, Boeing 757s, and C-17 Globemasters. Under a 99-year lease to the Louisiana Army National Guard, this joint-use military and civilian facility serves as home to Army Aviation Support Facility #2 (AASF#2) with approximately 60% military operations and 40% civilian activities.
The airport maintains essential terminal facilities for both military and general aviation operations, with fuel services provided through civilian contractor Million Air Interlink Inc. offering both military and civilian aircraft refueling capabilities. Annual operations total approximately 12,725 aircraft movements, averaging 35 per day with 53% general aviation and 47% military training exercises and operations supporting the Louisiana Army National Guard's training mission.
Operational capabilities focus on supporting intensive military training activities while accommodating general aviation and corporate aviation needs, with runways designed to handle the heaviest military transport aircraft. The facility maintains no scheduled commercial passenger service but provides comprehensive support for military operations, charter flights, and private aircraft operations serving the Alexandria-Pineville region, demonstrating successful dual-use airport operations balancing military training requirements with civilian aviation access.
๐ Connection Tips
Esler Regional Airport (ESF) is a vital and specialized aviation facility located in central Louisiana, serving as a critical hub for both general aviation and high-activity military training operations. For travelers, it is essential to note that ESF does not currently host regularly scheduled commercial airline services; most visitors flying commercially into the region utilize Alexandria International Airport (AEX), which is located approximately 15 miles to the southwest. However, for private pilots, corporate charters, and military contractors, ESF offers high-quality support with its robust infrastructure, featuring two asphalt runwaysโthe 5,999-foot runway 9/27 and the 5,601-foot runway 14/32, both 150 feet wide.
A major connection tip for pilots and passengers is maintaining extreme vigilance for frequent military training exercises; the airport often shares its airspace with heavy helicopters and tactical transports, which can lead to sudden, temporary runway closures. Ground transportation is a key logistical factor; since the airport is situated about 10 miles northeast of the Alexandria city center, pre-arranging a rental car or local taxi pickup is highly recommended as on-demand ride-share presence is limited. The terminal is a functional building providing basic waiting areas and essential pilot services, making it a favorite for those visiting the nearby Kisatchie National Forest or the various military heritage sites in the region.
Arriving at least 60 minutes before your private or charter departure is sufficient to navigate the facility comfortably. Always confirm local airfield status and any active NOTAMs with the airport manager before arrival. ESF remains a professional and highly resilient node in Louisianaโs transportation network.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the primary international airport serving New Mexico, located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. The airport boasts a distinctive Pueblo-style architectural terminal, which is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. This single, multi-level terminal efficiently manages all arrivals and departures, featuring a logical layout designed for passenger convenience. The lower level is dedicated to arriving passengers, housing baggage claim areas (three in total to serve Concourses A and B) and providing direct exits to ground transportation.
The upper level of the terminal is the departure zone, where travelers will find airline ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and access to the two main concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A primarily serves American Airlines, Delta, and United, while Southwest Airlines predominantly operates out of Concourse B. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, ensuring ample capacity for its scheduled domestic flights and limited international services. Recent upgrades include a TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project, which has enhanced security screening with up to four lanes and modern passenger amenities like new escalators and elevators.
Amenities at ABQ are comprehensive for a regional international facility. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, a variety of shops (including those offering local artisanal gifts), and diverse dining options ranging from cafes and fast-food outlets to restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine. Additional facilities like a Meditation Room and an observation deck contribute to a comfortable travel experience, complemented by a notable art collection displayed throughout the terminal.
๐ Connection Tips
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers excellent ground transportation connectivity just 3 miles southeast of downtown. ABQ RIDE provides completely free bus service (fare-free since November 2023) with Route 50 connecting the airport to downtown via Union Square Bus Station every 15-30 minutes, taking just 24 minutes total - the bus stop is conveniently located on the lower level at the west end of the shuttle island. Route 50 also connects to the Alvarado Transportation Center downtown where passengers can transfer to the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.
Rail Runner connections are enhanced through Route 350 (Railrunner Connecting bus) and free bus transfers when you have a valid Rail Runner ticket purchased in advance online or via mobile app - otherwise pay the driver a $1 fare each way. Official taxi service is available with fares starting at $35 to downtown Albuquerque through companies like ABQ Metro Taxi (505-450-8580) and Aspen Rides (505-388-3692). Ride-sharing via Uber and Lyft requires pre-booking as street hailing is not permitted.
For Santa Fe destinations, Groome Transportation operates 30 daily trips taking 75 minutes with variable pricing, while RoadRunner Charter provides door-to-door service to Santa Fe and Los Alamos areas. The Rail Runner Express connects Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Belen with convenient airport shuttle connections. Recent December 2025 improvements under the ABQ RIDE Forward Network Plan enhanced transit connectivity throughout the metropolitan area.
โ Back to Esler Regional Airport