โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Sacramento Mather Airport (MHR) is a significant aviation and business hub located in Rancho Cordova, California, on the site of the former Mather Air Force Base. The terminal is a modern, single-story facility that primarily supports air cargo operations, general aviation, and specialized corporate charters. Its expansive design reflects the airfield's history as a major military strategic hub, now repurposed to serve as a premier base for private, industrial, and large-scale logistical aviation in the Sacramento metropolitan area.
The terminal experience at Mather is professional and efficient, catering primarily to cargo personnel, business travelers, and specialized aviation crews. Inside, passengers have access to comfortable waiting lounges, modern flight planning rooms, and a range of meeting facilities designed for corporate and industrial clients. The layout is optimized for the handling of large aircraft, with immediate access to massive apron areas and hangar facilities that are among the most extensive in northern California. Security and administrative services are managed with a focus on high-end executive travel and specialized logistical operations, including major fire-fighting and search-and-rescue aviation.
Amenities within the MHR terminal include several cafes and comfortable waiting areas that provide a professional environment for travelers in transit. While the airfield does not offer extensive general public commercial retail, its location within the Mather Commerce Center provides convenient access to a wide range of local businesses, industrial services, and hotels. Ground transport is readily available, with dedicated taxi services and car rental agencies providing reliable connections to downtown Sacramento, the nearby state capital administrative districts, and the various industrial zones across the Central Valley.
๐ Connection Tips
Sacramento Mather Airport (MHR) in California is a unique and significant general aviation and industrial hub, formerly serving as the Mather Air Force Base. For those arriving at MHR via private aircraft, ground transportation is exceptionally well-supported. A unique feature of MHR is its role as a regional historical site, featuring the on-site 'California Capital Airshow' every fall. Weather in the Sacramento valley follows typical Mediterranean patterns, with the potential for localized morning fog (the 'Tule fog') during the winter months and intense heat during the summer. Always check for the latest NOTAMs and localized weather patterns before departure.
It serves as a vital base for corporate charters, private executive flights, and major air cargo operations (notably for DHL and UPS), while acting as a significant reliever for Sacramento International (SMF). On-site car rental services are available through local agencies but should be pre-arranged with the Fixed Base Operator (FBO), which provides full-service fueling (100LL and Jet A) and professional pilot amenities including a renovated lounge and flight planning room. Arriving 45 to 60 minutes before departures is standard for these regional hops. Pilots should always be prepared for the specialized airspace coordination required when operating near the SMF Class Charlie.
While it does not host scheduled commercial airline service (like Southwest or United), its location just 10 miles east of downtown Sacramento makes it a prime 'connection' point for executive travelers wishing to avoid the congestion and complex airspace of the larger commercial terminal. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are very active in the Rancho Cordova area and provide a convenient 15 to 20-minute link to the city center and the major tech parks. The airport features two substantial paved runways, including a 11,301-foot primary strip capable of handling the largest business jets and heavy transports. MHR provides a professional and remarkably efficient arrival experience, reflecting the unique industrious and historic character of the Sacramento region.
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 Sacramento Mather Airport