โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
60
minutes
International โ International
45
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) uses a single main terminal building. According to the airport's official history, the current 275,000-sq-ft terminal opened in May 1994 with 10 gates and was designed to be expandable to 19.
A terminal expansion completed in July 2007 added five departure gates and about 10,000 sq ft of concession space, bringing the total to 15 gates. These improvements reinforced the airport's compact, single-terminal layout.
Passenger amenities are centralized in that terminal, including the Passport Club lounge located between Gates 10 and 12 and a Visitor Information Center in the heart of baggage claim. This layout keeps arrivals, departures, and services in one easy-to-navigate building.
๐ Connection Tips
Allow extra time for connections as this award-winning airport (named #1 Best Domestic Airport by Travel+Leisure in 2022) experiences rapidly increasing passenger traffic with TSA security lanes expanding to 6 by fall 2024 and terminal expansion adding 4 more gates by November 2025. Seasonal weather patterns moderately impact flight operations, with summer bringing afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity typical of the Georgia coast, while winter weather is generally mild and favorable for aviation operations, though occasional tropical systems during hurricane season can affect the region. Joseph's/Candler Health System, plus emergency helicopter services for the coastal region
The facility maintains excellent operational reliability despite serving both historic Savannah and Hilton Head resort areas, though summer thunderstorms and occasional tropical weather can create temporary delays during Georgia's humid subtropical climate conditions. The airport's strategic location serves dual markets as the gateway to Savannah's world-renowned historic district and squares, and Hilton Head's luxury resort destinations, making it unique among regional airports for serving both cultural tourism and beach resort traffic.
Ground transportation options are comprehensive and include rental cars from all major agencies, taxi services, ride-sharing apps, and charter bus connections to both downtown Savannah's historic district and Hilton Head's resort beaches, with advance booking recommended during peak tourist seasons and major events. Emergency services and medical evacuation capabilities are extensive with coordination to Savannah's major medical facilities including Memorial Health University Medical Center and St.
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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