Spokane Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

Spokane, the largest city in Eastern Washington, is served primarily by one commercial airport. This regional hub provides essential connections to major US gateway cities, with limited direct international service. Understanding the airport’s straightforward layout and ground transportation options is key for travelers visiting the Inland Northwest for business, leisure, or as a gateway to regional attractions.

This guide provides clear, practical information about Spokane’s airport, including its facilities, how to get to downtown, and what you need to know for your travels.

Spokane International Airport (GEG)

Overview: Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the primary commercial airport serving Eastern Washington, Northern Idaho, and parts of Western Montana. Located approximately 7 miles (11 km) west of downtown Spokane, it is a modern, manageable facility that serves as a focus city for Alaska Airlines and is served by all major US domestic carriers.

Concourses & Terminals:

• Main Terminal: Houses the single, consolidated security checkpoint, ticketing/check-in for all airlines, and baggage claim. All concessions and services before security are located here.
• Concourses A & B: Both concourses are located airside, after security. They are directly connected to the main terminal and to each other, making connections between gates very simple.
  • Concourse A: Primarily serves Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
  • Concourse B: Primarily serves American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Frontier Airlines.

Note: Despite having two concourses, GEG operates as a single, integrated terminal. You can walk between all gates and facilities without needing to re-clear security.

Getting to and from Spokane Airport:

• Rental Car:
  The most popular option for visitors to the region. The Rental Car Facility is located directly across the street from the terminal and is accessible via a short, covered skybridge from the baggage claim level. All major rental companies are represented.
• Taxi & Ride-Hailing (Uber/Lyft):
  Designated pick-up areas are located on the commercial roadway outside the baggage claim doors. Taxis are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ride-hailing services operate freely. A trip to downtown Spokane takes 15-20 minutes and typically costs $25-$35.
• Public Bus (Spokane Transit Authority – STA):
  The Route 60 – Airport/Downtown bus offers an economical connection. The bus stop is located on the arrivals level, outside door 1. The trip to downtown (Plaza bus station) takes about 25-30 minutes. Check the STA website for current schedules and fares.
• Hotel Shuttles & Private Shuttles:
  Many area hotels offer complimentary shuttle service. The pick-up area is on the commercial roadway. Private shuttle companies also service nearby destinations like Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
• Personal Vehicle:
  The airport is easily accessible via I-90 (Exit 277B). Short-term and long-term parking are available directly in front of the terminal and in an adjacent economy lot, connected by a free shuttle.

Best for: All travelers to Spokane and the Inland Northwest, serving as the main domestic hub for the region with connections to Seattle, Portland, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Minneapolis, among others.

Felts Field (SFF) – General Aviation

Overview: Felts Field is a public-use general aviation airport located about 7 miles (11 km) northeast of downtown Spokane, along the Spokane River. It handles private planes, charters, flight training, and aviation services but does not handle scheduled commercial airline flights.

Getting to and from Felts Field:

• Transportation is typically arranged via private charter company, pre-booked taxi/ride-hail, or rental car delivered to the FBO (Fixed-Base Operator). There is no public transit directly serving the airport.

Best for: Private pilots, chartered flights, and aviation services.

Essential Travel Information for Spokane Airport (GEG)

Location & Layout: The airport is compact and efficient. From curb to gate typically takes less than 15-20 minutes, even during busier periods. The two concourses are small and easily navigable.

Dining & Shopping: Options are limited but adequate, with regional-themed restaurants and news/gift shops available both before and after security. More extensive dining options are available in downtown Spokane or the nearby “Geiger Heights” area.

International Arrivals: While GEG has limited seasonal service to Mexico and occasional charters, it has a dedicated Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility to process international arrivals. These passengers will clear customs and immigration in Spokane.

Departure Tip: Security wait times are generally short. Arriving 90 minutes before a domestic flight is almost always sufficient, even during peak morning hours. The airport is rarely congested.

Ground Transport to Regional Destinations

To Coeur d’Alene, ID:
The resort city of Coeur d’Alene is about a 40-minute drive east via I-90. Options include rental car, taxi/ride-hail (approx. $60-$80 one-way), or pre-booked private shuttle services.

To Ski Resorts (Schweitzer, Mt. Spokane, Silver Mountain):
A rental car is highly recommended for accessing regional ski areas. Shuttle services may be available through specific resorts or tour operators, especially during peak season—book in advance.

To Eastern Washington University (Cheney) or Gonzaga University:
Rental car, taxi, or ride-hailing are the most direct options. Public transit may require connections and longer travel times.

Bottom Line: Spokane International Airport (GEG) is a stress-free, user-friendly regional airport. For the smoothest experience, renting a car is often the most practical choice for exploring the region, though ride-hailing is efficient for downtown trips. Allow standard domestic travel times, as delays are uncommon in this uncongested facility.