Omaha Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

Omaha is primarily served by a single major commercial airport, with several smaller facilities supporting general aviation and military operations. The city’s air travel is efficiently consolidated into one modern terminal, providing straightforward access to eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. This simplicity makes planning travel to the heart of the Midwest easier than in multi-airport regions.

This guide provides everything you need to know about flying into and out of Omaha, including terminal details, ground transportation options, and key local travel insights.

Eppley Airfield (OMA)

Overview: Eppley Airfield is the primary commercial airport serving Omaha and the greater region of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. Located approximately 3 miles (5 km) northeast of downtown Omaha, it is one of the most conveniently located major airports relative to its city center in the United States. It serves as a focus city for Southwest Airlines.

Terminals: Eppley Airfield operates from a single, modern terminal building with two concourses. A major terminal renovation and expansion project is currently underway, set to be completed in 2026, which will add gates and enhance amenities.

• Main Terminal: Houses all ticketing, baggage claim, security, and ground transportation. The design is linear and easy to navigate.
• Concourse A (Gates 1-12): Located to the east, serving Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and United Airlines.
• Concourse B (Gates 14-24): Located to the west, serving Southwest Airlines.

The concourses are connected post-security, allowing access to all gates and concessions once through TSA.

Getting to and from Eppley Airfield (OMA):

• Rental Car:
  The most flexible option for visitors. The Rental Car Facility is located on the airport grounds, a very short drive from the terminal. A free, 24/7 shuttle bus runs continuously between the terminal and the rental facility (a 2-3 minute ride).
• Ride-Hailing (Uber/Lyft):
  The most common on-demand option. The designated pick-up zone is on the ground level of the parking garage, directly across from the terminal baggage claim. A ride to downtown Omaha typically costs $12-$20.
• Taxi:
  Taxis are available at the ground transportation curb outside baggage claim. Fares to downtown are metered and generally range from $20-$25.
• Hotel Shuttles:
  Many hotels in the metro area offer complimentary shuttle service. The pick-up area is located on the ground transportation curb. Confirm with your hotel in advance.
• Public Transit (Metro Transit):
  Public bus Route 16 provides service between the airport (stop at the north end of the parking garage) and downtown Omaha. It is an extremely economical option (fare: $1.25), but service frequency is limited (especially on weekends) and travel time is longer (approx. 25-35 minutes to downtown).
• Parking:
  Airport parking is convenient and relatively affordable. Options include the connected Garage, an open Economy Lot, and a Cell Phone Waiting Lot. The garage is a short, covered walk to the terminal.

Best for: All commercial airline travel to the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. Its proximity to downtown and efficiency make it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

Millard Airport (MLE)

Overview: Located in southwest Omaha, Millard Airport is a public-use general aviation airport. It does not handle scheduled commercial passenger service. It is a hub for private aircraft, corporate jets, charter flights, air taxi services, and flight training.

Terminal/Facilities:

• No commercial passenger terminal. Services are provided through Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) like B. R. A. S., Inc., which handle fueling, hangaring, and passenger services for private aircraft.

Getting to and from Millard Airport:

• Private Vehicle / Pre-Arranged Transport:
  All transportation must be arranged via taxi, ride-hailing, or through your charter company/FBO. No public transit serves the airport.

Best for: Private aviation, corporate travel, and local flight training.

Offutt Air Force Base (OFF)

Overview: Located south of Omaha in Bellevue, this is a major United States Air Force installation and home to the U.S. Strategic Command. It has a military airfield with significant runway capability.

Note for Travelers: This is an active military base, not a public airport. Access is restricted to authorized military and government personnel. All civilian commercial travel must use Eppley Airfield (OMA).

Which Omaha Airport Should You Choose?

For all travelers booking on commercial airlines, Eppley Airfield (OMA) is the only choice. Its exceptional proximity to downtown Omaha makes it one of the most convenient airport-to-city connections in the country.

Millard Airport (MLE) serves only the private aviation community. For the general public, Eppley is the sole option.

Local Travel Context: While Omaha has a developing bus system and a useful streetcar in downtown/midtown, the metropolitan area is spread out. For visitors planning to explore beyond the urban core (e.g., to the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, Old Market, or out to suburban destinations), renting a car or using ride-hailing is highly recommended.

Essential Information for Omaha Travel

Arriving at OMA: The airport is renowned for its ease and short security lines. The walk from the farthest gate to baggage claim is under 10 minutes. The ongoing terminal expansion will add space but is designed to maintain this efficiency. Follow signage for ground transportation on the lower level.

Local Tips:

• Parking is Easy: The attached garage is highly convenient, often with ample space, and rates are reasonable. The economy lot is a great budget option with frequent shuttle buses.
• Dining at OMA: The airport features several local Nebraska favorites, including Runza and the 402 Burger Co., offering a taste of the region before you even leave the terminal.
• Weather Considerations: Omaha experiences full continental seasons. Winter snow and ice storms (Dec-Feb) can cause delays, though the airport is well-equipped. Summer can bring severe thunderstorms. Check forecasts before travel during these seasons.
• Construction Awareness: With the terminal modernization project ongoing through 2026, allow a little extra time for check-in and navigating the terminal, and be mindful of temporary signage.
• Quick City Access: The short drive to downtown (often 10 minutes without traffic) means you can go from your airplane seat to a restaurant in the Old Market very quickly.

Final Advice: Flying into Eppley Airfield is typically a hassle-free introduction to Omaha. To maximize your visit, consider your need for a rental car based on your itinerary, take advantage of the easy and affordable parking if you drive, and enjoy the local flavors available at the airport. Its convenience is a point of pride for the city.