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Whether you're taking your very first flight or just unaware of the aviation landscape in Arkansas, this definitive travel guide to major airports in Arkansas for new passengers is meant to help you easily take your flight from check-in to touchdown.
Airports can be intimidating with the scary music, security lines, boarding gates, terminals, and strange signage. I promise you will feel much better knowing how the system works, where to go, and what to expect. Therefore, we've compiled exactly what you need to know in this ultimate Arkansas airport guide, including terminal maps, airline information, travel tips, and airport overviews.
Let's start with the major airports in Arkansas and help you fly with confidence.
After what felt like a long hiatus, many Arkansans are starting to venture out, especially with some of the beautiful weather we've enjoyed lately. While Arkansas may not be an international mega-hub like Atlanta or Dallas, we have several modern, reliable airports for domestic travelers and connecting passengers. When you travel from one of Arkansas's airports, you will likely experience friendly service, few crowds, shorter lines, and ease/flow of movement - just what the doctor ordered for first-time flyers.
Let me tell you what you will find in this overview of the airports in Arkansas:
Overview of Arkansas airports
List of operators and destinations offered by Arkansas airports
Map of terminals and tips for traveling throughout the airports
Transportation and parking are available.
Travel tips to keep your travel experience simple and easy.
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Clinton National Airport (LIT), located in Little Rock, is Arkansas's most significant and busiest airport. It processes more than 2 million passengers annually, making it the most important airport for anyone coming into the state capital.
Leading airlines: American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Frontier, and Allegiant Airlines
Destinations: Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Charlotte, New York, Las Vegas, Orlando, Chicago, Houston
Clinton National Airport has one terminal, which makes navigating LIT extremely simple. What to expect on arrival at LIT:
Check-in & ticketing: located on the upper level of the terminal.
Security Checkpoint: Right after ticketing, you will find the security checkpoint with multiple lanes.
Gates: You will have access to 12 gates (1-12) to take you on your flight, and once you are in the terminal, you can walk to the gates.
Travel Tip: Arrive at the airport 90 minutes before to avoid feeling rushed when leaving on the flight!
Short-term and long-term parking are available steps from the terminal.
Rideshares like Uber/Lyft and taxis are available at the ground transportation exit.
Rental car counters are available on the property from baggage claim.
Situated in Highfill, near Bentonville and Fayetteville, XNA serves the rapidly growing Northwest Arkansas region, home to major companies like Walmart and Tyson Foods.
Major carriers: American Airlines, United, Delta, Breeze Airways, Allegiant, Frontier
Destinations: Chicago, Denver, New York, Miami, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Atlanta
XNA’s terminal is modern and user-friendly.
Ticketing counters: Located near the main entrance
Security checkpoint: One main screening area
Gate areas: Divided into two concourses, but it is easy to walk between them
Travel Tip: Early morning and evening flights are busiest—plan ahead.
Parking: Short- and long-term options with shuttle service
Rideshare: Pick-up zones marked outside the main terminal
Public transit: Limited—consider a rental car if you’re staying long
In western Arkansas, FSM is a smaller regional airport that offers essential connections and a laid-back flying experience, ideal for new travelers.
Primary carrier: American Eagle (operated by Envoy Air)
Destinations: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
FSM has a straightforward setup:
One terminal with short walking distances
Minimal lines at check-in and TSA
Gates: Only a few, so no chance of getting lost
Travel Tip: Even during peak hours, FSM is quiet. Perfect for nervous flyers.
Free parking options available (a rare perk!)
Ground transport: Limited—pre-arrange rides or rentals
TXK is a convenient and efficient airport for residents of southern Arkansas and northern Texas.
Carrier: American Eagle
Main route: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
Small terminal, minimal foot traffic
Fast boarding, short security wait times
Comfortable for first-time travelers who want a stress-free experience
Free parking lots right outside the terminal
Rental car desks are available inside.
Travel Tip: No food vendors inside—bring snacks or eat before arriving.
This airport serves the scenic spa city of Hot Springs. Though it has limited commercial flights, it remains a valuable option for regional and charter travelers.
Mainly charter flights or private aviation
Occasional commercial service (check local updates.)
No crowds
Easy check-in and boarding process
Relaxed vibe compared to larger airports
Proximity to downtown Hot Springs
Parking is free and abundant.
Travel Tip: If flying private or on a charter, HOT is a smooth and stylish entry point into central Arkansas.
If you’re flying to or from Arkansas, the right airport depends on your location and your needs:
| Airport | Best For | Notable Perks |
| LIT (Little Rock) | Central Arkansas | Most connections and airlines |
| XNA (Bentonville) | Northwest Arkansas | Modern terminal, business travel focus |
| FSM (Fort Smith) | Western Arkansas | Easy navigation, minimal crowds |
| TXK (Texarkana) | South Arkansas | Quick access, free parking |
| HOT (Hot Springs) | Central Arkansas | Charter/private flights, scenic destination |
Understanding your airport’s layout before arrival helps you navigate more confidently. While each Arkansas airport is compact and beginner-friendly, here are some general terminal map tips:
Check online maps on the airport’s website before arriving.
Download airport apps (like LIT or XNA) for real-time gate changes.
Follow signage for ticketing, TSA, gates, and baggage claim—it's color-coded in most airports.
Ask staff—Arkansas airport employees are known for Southern hospitality
Bonus Tip: Screenshot your boarding pass and terminal map to your phone for easy access even without Wi-Fi.
If this is your first time flying, these travel tips will make the journey much smoother:
Use TSA-approved travel-size containers.
Could you check baggage size and weight requirements for your airline?
Keep valuables and chargers in your carry-on
Small airports: 60–90 minutes before departure
Larger airports like LIT or XNA: 2 hours recommended
Remove shoes, belts, and laptops.
Liquids must be under 3.4 oz and placed in a clear zip-lock bag.
Follow TSA staff instructions calmly
Boarding is usually by group or row.
Have your ID and boarding pass ready.
Be attentive to announcements
Delays happen—bring entertainment or snacks.
Ask for help if you’re unsure; staff are there for you
For those worried about air travel, we have provided a complete travel guide to major airports in Arkansas for new flyers. Air travel can be scary for first-timers, but these airports are smaller, more personalized, and easier to manage than larger airports. Great for those getting used to flying for the first time!
Whether traveling for business, vacation, or visiting family, you will find friendly people, convenient terminals, and helpful travel tips to help you at every step of your journey. Fly the friendly skies by keeping this Arkansas airport guide, and let your first flight take off to many more flights in the future.
Fly safe—welcome to the sky!
This content was created by AI