โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Eppley Airfield (OMA) is currently operating with a unique split-terminal configuration as of February 2025, part of the BuildOMA modernization project. The airport divides operations between North Terminal (Concourse B, gates B11-B20) serving Southwest and United, and South Terminal (Concourse A, gates A1-A10) serving American and Delta. This temporary arrangement, necessitated by construction of a new Central Pavilion scheduled to open in 2027, requires passengers to navigate between terminals via Terminal Drive walkways or the lower level of the South Garage.
As Nebraska's largest airport, located 3 miles northeast of downtown Omaha, Eppley handles over 5 million passengers annually with Southwest Airlines commanding the largest market share at 37%, followed by American at 21% and Delta at 18%. The split configuration maintains separate security checkpoints, ticketing areas, and baggage claims for each terminal, requiring passengers to carefully verify their terminal assignment before arrival.
Despite the construction, both terminals offer modern amenities including local dining options featuring Omaha steaks, retail shops, and free WiFi. The airport's three runways (14R/32L, 14L/32R, and 18/36) continue normal operations throughout the renovation, which represents the facility's most significant upgrade in four decades and will ultimately create a unified, state-of-the-art terminal complex.
๐ Connection Tips
Eppley Airfield (OMA) sits 3 miles northeast of downtown Omaha with the current split-terminal configuration requiring careful navigation planning. Metro Transit Route 3 provides public bus service to downtown for $1. 25, departing from the South Terminal ground transportation area hourly on weekdays, though service is limited on weekends. Shuttles run every 5-10 minutes, but allow extra time during the terminal split as you may need to request specific terminal pickup. During winter months (November-March), allow extra time for potential weather delays and de-icing procedures.
Ground transportation pickup locations differ by terminal: North Terminal (Southwest/United) passengers exit near gates B16-B19, while South Terminal (American/Delta) passengers use the A-gates area. Taxis queue at both terminals with metered fares averaging $20-25 to downtown hotels and $30-35 to West Omaha business districts. Short-term parking remains available at both terminals ($2/30 minutes, $28/day), while economy lots ($2/hour, $8/day) require shuttle access.
Both terminals have designated ride-share zones for Uber and Lyft on the ground level with typical downtown fares of $15-20. The consolidated rental car facility, accessible via shuttle from both terminals, houses Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The Old Market entertainment district is 10 minutes away, while corporate centers in West Omaha are 15-20 minutes via I-480.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Ambler Airport (ABL) is a remote, state-owned public-use airport located in the Native Alaskan village of Ambler, within the Northwest Arctic Borough. It serves as an indispensable lifeline for this isolated community, as there are no connecting roads. The airport's infrastructure is extremely basic, reflecting its role as a bush airport. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, operations are conducted from a small, heated shelter or a designated waiting area adjacent to the gravel runway. This single facility serves as the waiting lounge, check-in area, and baggage claim point.
The airport is equipped with two gravel runways, the longest measuring 3,000 feet, operating at an elevation of 334 feet above mean sea level. This design accommodates the small aircraft, typically Twin Otters or Cessnas, that are vital for connecting Ambler to larger regional hubs. Passengers should anticipate a highly informal process, with direct interactions with pilots and airline representatives from operators like Bering Air.
Amenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. There are no cafes, restaurants, vending machines, or shops on-site. Travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary provisions, including food, water, and personal supplies. Security procedures are minimal, consistent with bush flying operations in remote Alaska, focusing on adherence to general aviation safety guidelines.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Ambler Airport are exclusively through domestic bush flights, with Bering Air being the primary scheduled carrier. These flights are crucial for linking Ambler with the regional hub of Kotzebue (OTZ) and nearby villages like Shungnak (SHG) and Kobuk (OBU). Kotzebue's Ralph Wien Memorial Airport serves as the main gateway from which most flights to Ambler originate, providing essential connections to Anchorage via Alaska Airlines. Because there are no roads connecting this isolated part of the Northwest Arctic Borough to the rest of the state, these regional air links are the only way to transport supplies, personnel, and medical essentials to the community. Travelers should expect a highly personalized but informal experience, as flights often operate as multi-stop 'milk runs' across the Kobuk River valley.
Travel to and from Ambler is highly dependent on unpredictable Arctic weather conditions and available daylight hours. Flights are frequently subject to significant delays or total cancellations due to adverse weather patterns, including dense fog, heavy snow, or high winds, which are common throughout the year. It is crucial for all travelers to maintain flexible itineraries and to confirm their flight status directly with Bering Air or their charter operator before heading to the airstrip. Unlike major commercial airports, there are no inter-airline baggage transfer services here; all luggage is handled manually by the pilot and ground agents upon arrival and departure. Always prepare for the unexpected and carry essential items in your carry-on, as the challenging environment can lead to extended stays in regional hubs like Kotzebue.
Ground transportation in the village of Ambler is extremely limited and primarily relies on local community members or pre-arranged pickups from your lodging provider. There are no traditional taxi services, Uber, or rental cars readily available at the airport, which is located about 1.5 miles north of the village center. Most residents and visitors use ATVs (four-wheelers) during the summer and snow machines in the winter to navigate the gravel road between the airstrip and the community. Bering Air typically has a local agent who coordinates arrivals and can assist with logistics, but it is vital to have a clear plan for your ground transport well in advance of your touchdown to ensure you are not left stranded at the remote airfield.
Self-sufficiency is paramount when traveling to such an isolated destination, and coordination with local providers like the Kobuk River Lodge is highly recommended. This lodge is the primary provider for both accommodation and meals in Ambler and can often assist with arranging the necessary transport from the airport. During the summer months, travel between Ambler, Shungnak, and Kobuk can also be conducted via small boats on the Kobuk River, though this is a local arrangement and not part of any formal transit system. Having a thorough understanding of your ground logistics, including pre-booked lodging and a confirmed local contact for pickup, is as critical as your flight plan when navigating the unique challenges of the Alaskan bush.
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