Key Highlights
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The most convenient regional airport is Waco Regional Airport (ACT). It is just a few minutes away from downtown Waco and the Silos.
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For more flights, you can fly into big airports in Dallas, Fort Worth, or Austin. These are all within 100 miles of Waco.
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Many direct flights to Waco connect through bigger Texas cities. This helps people travel straight from other major metropolitan areas.
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American Airlines is the main commercial airline for Waco Regional Airport.
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Besides commercial flights, TSTC Waco Airport helps with general aviation and also has flight training programs.
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Renting a car is a good idea for getting around Waco and the areas nearby, no matter which airport you use.
Introduction
Welcome to Waco! This city is right in the middle of Texas. It is a lively place and easy to get to, whether you drive or fly. If you want to fly in, there are a few good ways to do it. The regional airport that is closest is the Waco Regional Airport. This airport puts you close to all the local spots in town. This guide will help you learn all you need to know about flying into Waco. Learn how to pick the best airport, and find out how to get into town from the Waco Regional Airport once you land.
Main Airports Serving Waco, Texas
When you go to the city of Waco in Texas, you can pick from a few airports to fly into. The main one is the Waco Regional Airport. This regional airport is close to the city and you can get to most of the main spots with a short drive. The airport is a good choice if you want your trip to Waco to be fast and easy.
There are also some bigger airports not too far from Waco. You can drive to these airports if you want more flight options. Knowing the airport codes and where they are can help you pick the best one for your time and money when you come to Texas.
Waco Regional Airport (ACT) Overview
The main airport for Waco is the Waco Regional Airport, known by the airport code ACT. One big plus is how close it is to the city. It’s only about 16 minutes by car from downtown Waco and the Silos. Since this is a regional airport and not a big one, there are shorter lines, security checks go a lot quicker, and it’s easy to get around. This helps make coming or leaving the airport smooth for people.
Waco Regional Airport has a few runways and a control tower, so flights run well and safe. Even though this is not a large place, it offers all the key things people need when they get to Waco. It helps people avoid problems and cuts down on waiting after you land.
The main airline here at Waco Regional Airport is American Airlines. People use it to fly to and from the Dallas/Fort Worth area. But since getting in and out of this regional airport is easy and quick, ticket prices for flights right into Waco might be a bit more than airports near the area that are bigger.
TSTC Waco Airport and Other Local Facilities
Besides the main regional airport, the city of Waco also has the TSTC Waco Airport. This airport is different. It is the biggest airport in the United States that is run by a school, Texas State Technical College (TSTC). The airport in Waco has large runways and good buildings, including a primary runway that can hold big jets.
The TSTC Waco Airport is a main spot in Texas for learning how to fly. At TSTC, you can study to be a pilot or learn about Aircraft Airframe and Aircraft Powerplant technology. The airport in Waco gives students from all over, including the ones at Baylor University Flight Center, a good place to get hands-on experience.
This airport is also used by private and business planes. It is a big help for charter flights and regular flyers in the region. TSTC Waco Airport is right by the I-35 road, so it is quick to get in and out. Businesses and people who want to fly in Central Texas, but stay out of busy big airport traffic, find it the best choice.
Airlines, Destinations, and Direct Flight Options
Knowing how you will fly to Waco is an important part of planning your trip. The local airport has commercial airlines that help you get here easily. There are not many direct flights from far away, but most connections go smoothly.
If you know which airlines come into Waco and where they connect, you can make your trip better. In the next parts, we will talk about the airlines that come here and the nonstop options for direct flights to Waco.
Commercial Airlines Operating from Waco
When you fly into Waco Regional Airport, you’ll be flying with American Airlines. As the main carrier for the airport, American Airlines provides reliable service connecting Waco to its massive hub at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). This makes traveling to Waco from anywhere in the world a simple, two-step process.
While other major carriers like Southwest Airlines operate out of nearby airports such as Dallas Love Field, they do not currently offer service directly into Waco. The focus at Waco Regional Airport is providing a streamlined connection through one of the world’s busiest airports.
This setup ensures that even though it’s a smaller regional airport, you still have access to a global network. Your journey will likely involve a layover at DFW before a short flight completes your trip to Waco.
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Airline |
Primary Hub |
Serves Waco Regional Airport (ACT)? |
|---|---|---|
|
American Airlines |
Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) |
Yes |
Nonstop Flights and Connections Available
If you want to know where you can fly nonstop from Waco Regional Airport, the main answer is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). This direct flight lets you get to and from many major cities around the world.
You won’t find direct flights from Waco to other big cities or popular vacation places. But flying into DFW makes travel simple and easy. The trip from Waco Regional Airport to DFW takes you about 90 miles. The time in the air is short and quick.
When you fly out of Waco, your travel will usually look like this:
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First, you get a nonstop flight to DFW.
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Next, you wait at DFW for your next flight.
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After that, you board a new flight that takes you to your final stop, with American Airlines or its partners.
With this service, even a small regional airport like Waco’s gives the city strong ties to places all over the globe.
Alternative Airports Near Waco
Waco’s regional airport is very easy to use, but you do have other choices. If you want more flights to pick from or hope to find better prices, look at other big airports near Texas. Dallas and Austin have major airports, and they are both just a two-hour drive from Waco. Flying into Dallas or Austin can give you a good option when you plan to visit Texas.
These bigger airports give you more things to choose from, including more airlines and international flights than the regional airport in Waco. Let’s look at the major airports close by. You can also check out a few small airfields near Waco that might also work for you.
Major Airports in Dallas and Austin
Yes, there are other big airports close to Waco. Within about 100 miles, you can pick from three good options. North of Waco, you will find two choices in the Dallas area: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL). DFW is huge. It has many airlines, so it is a good choice for people traveling far. Dallas Love Field is a smaller spot. Most flights at Love Field are on Southwest Airlines, so you will see fewer people there.
In the south, you can use Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). It is about 93 minutes from Waco. There are lots of airlines and places to go from AUS, with a clear Austin feel. All three airports give the travelers plenty of choices for food and shopping.
If you pick one of these airports, you may get better ticket prices and more flight times to choose from. But, keep in mind that you will need to arrange ground transportation, like a rental car, to travel from Dallas or Austin to Waco.
Regional and Private Airfields within Driving Distance
Outside the main commercial airports, the area in and around the city of Waco has several smaller airfields. These serve people who use private or charter flights. Some even fly their own planes. The TSTC Waco Airport is a good example of this. It has many services for those in business and private flights.
These smaller airports offer more privacy and ease than big commercial airports. If you be on a business trip or planning a special group tour, using a private airfield in Texas can help you save both time and trouble. Many of these airports are spread out across Central Texas, so you are not far in miles from where you need to go.
Key airport options near Waco include:
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TSTC Waco Airport (CNW): This is a large airport that is set up for private, government, and corporate flights.
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McGregor Executive Airport (PWG): Another airport close by for general flights and private jets.
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Various private strips: There are also many small, private airfields all through the Texas region.
These choices be good for making charter flights fast and simple for anyone traveling to Waco.
Getting to and from Waco Airports
After your plane lands on the runways near Waco, you will need to get to your final stop. If you land at Waco Regional Airport, or if you come in through Austin or Dallas, you still have to find a way to downtown Waco.
The good news is there are a few ways to get there. You can use public transportation, book a private shuttle, or find a rideshare. Getting from the airport into the middle of Texas is easy. Here are the different ways you can make the trip.
Ground Transportation and Public Transit Options
There is some public transportation in the city of Waco. But, it might not be the quickest way to get from the regional airport to downtown Waco. The city’s transit is better for getting around inside Waco, not as much for getting from the airport to the city center. So, many people choose other ways to travel because they want it to be easier.
It is a good idea to have a car while in the city of Waco. This gives you the freedom to go where you want and to see places around Waco. You can walk in the downtown area, but many important places are spaced out. Having a car helps people get the most out of their time here.
When you are thinking about what to do, here are some options:
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Rental Cars: This is the most flexible way to travel. You can get a car at all the big airports.
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Taxis and Rideshares: You can find these in Waco, but you may have to wait a bit longer.
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Shuttle Services: If you book ahead, you can take a shuttle straight to your hotel.
Using only public transportation to get from the regional airport to downtown Waco can be tough. It’s a good idea to look at other ways to travel.
Shuttle Services, Taxi, and Rideshare Availability
For people who do not want to rent a car in the city of Waco, there are other ways to get around. You can use shuttle services, taxis, and rideshare apps. Many local companies have shuttle services you can book early. These can take you from the airport straight to your hotel in the city of Waco. This is often a good choice if you want to save money or if you are traveling with some friends or family. This way is also less stressful.
There are also taxis at the airports. You will usually see a taxi stand just outside the baggage area. This is a good and quick way to get to your hotel or any other place. You do not have to wait long after you land.
Rideshare apps, like Uber and Lyft, also work in Waco. But you have to know that there might not be as many drivers as in big cities. Because of this, you may have to wait more time. During busy times or late at night, it could be hard to find a car. It is smart to check the app right away when you get to the runways to see if any cars are near you.
Services and Amenities at Waco Regional Airport
The Waco Regional Airport (ACT) may not be big, but it has what you need for a good trip. The airport is set up to be quick and easy, so you can get from the curb to your gate without trouble. You will find all the things you need to have a nice journey.
This regional airport in Texas is clean and gives you easy parking. Waco Regional Airport puts passenger comfort first. In the next parts, we will talk about what the terminal offers, car rentals, and other things you can use at this friendly Waco airport.
Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services
The terminal at Waco Regional Airport is set up to be clean and easy to use. You will find it comfortable and simple to get around. Since it is a regional airport, you do not have to go on long walks or deal with signs that are hard to follow. The whole place helps you move fast, so you get where you need to be in the city of Waco or out of it.
Inside, there are the main services and things you need as a traveler. There are waiting areas with seats where you can sit and relax before your flight. You will find restrooms and other needed spaces close by. The small size of this regional airport means you have everything near you.
Waco Regional Airport does not have a lot of shops or many options for food like bigger airports do. Instead, it gives you what you need for a good, easy travel day. There is more of a focus on friendly service and getting people in and out fast. You feel the friendly nature of the city of Waco when you are here.
Car Rentals, Parking, and Accessibility Features
Getting a rental car at Waco Regional Airport is easy. You will find cars from well-known companies right at the terminal. After you get your bags, you can pick up the car and go. This makes it easy for you to see Waco and its nearby places whenever you want.
Parking at the regional airport is simple too. The lots are right by the terminal building. You do not have to walk far with your bags. They have both short-term and long-term parking. The prices are good and your car will be safe.
The airport setup is made to help all people. Here are some things you will find for easier access:
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Handicap spaces close to the terminal entrance.
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Ramps and bathrooms that every person can use in the building.
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Help is ready for those who need it.
These things make sure everyone can be comfortable when traveling through Waco Regional Airport.
Student and Charter Aviation in Waco
Waco is more than just a place for people who travel for business. This city in Texas is big for flying schools and private air trips, too. The TSTC Waco Airport is a main spot for this. It helps student pilots, people taking business charter flights, and others. All of this makes flying in this part of Texas stand out even more.
Waco has great flight schools and spots made for private jets. Because of this, Waco is key for those learning to fly and travelers who want something special. Let’s check out the flight schools and private jet options you can find in Waco.
Flight Training Programs at TSTC Waco Airport
Yes, the TSTC Waco Airport is one of the best places for flight training in Texas. The airport is part of Texas State Technical College. It is in the city of Waco. Here, students have a chance to learn from experienced instructors and use up-to-date tools.
The college has a few different degree programs. These are Aircraft Pilot Training, Aircraft Airframe Technology, and Aircraft Powerplant Technology. At this airport, students get to learn by doing. Many people, including students working with the Baylor University Flight Center, come for this hands-on training. They all get to work in a real airport, which gives them good experience.
Training at TSTC Waco Airport helps many people who want to become pilots or work as technicians. Students get to study in classrooms and then use what they learn at the airport. This is why the TSTC Waco Airport in the city of Waco is great for those who want to begin a future in aviation.
Charter Flights and Private Jet Services
If you want a more private and flexible way to travel, Waco has some great choices for charter flights and private jets. The TSTC Waco Airport in Texas is set up well for this. The airport has long runways and many top-notch facilities. It can handle all kinds of private planes, from small ones to big business jets.
When you pick a charter flight, you get to make your own schedule. You also avoid large crowds and long lines, like you might find at a busy regional airport. This is good for business trips, group outings, or for anyone who wants more privacy and help on their trip. There are also several fixed-base operators (FBOs) in Waco, such as Servion of Waco, that offer full support to those flying private.
You will get things like fuel, upkeep, and someone to help with passengers. This makes sure your trip, from the time you get here to when you leave, goes well. No matter if it is for business or fun, the private aviation setup in Waco and the TSTC Waco Airport makes this part of Texas easy and nice to visit.
Conclusion
To sum up, Waco’s airports make it easy to get in and out of this busy Texas city. You can choose the Waco Regional Airport or look at others near the area. There are many airlines and direct flights you can take, so you have some good choices. Ground travel and help for travelers are also there to make sure your trip goes smoothly. If you’re interested in learning to fly or want to book a special flight, TSTC Waco Airport offers that. In Waco, there is something nice for everyone. So, pack your things and come see what Waco has for you. If you want help planning your visit, just get in touch for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airport should I use for flights to Waco?
For the best convenience, you can fly to Waco Regional Airport (ACT). It is just minutes away from downtown Waco. If you want more flight choices and maybe lower fares, think about landing at Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Dallas Love Field (DAL), or Austin-Bergstrom (AUS). Then, drive to Waco, Texas from one of these airports.
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Are there budget-friendly flight options from Waco?
Tickets to Waco Regional Airport are often not cheap. If you want to save money, look at flights to the bigger airports in Dallas and Austin. More airlines fly to these big hubs. That helps keep prices lower. But, you must find a way to get from there to Waco.
How do I reach downtown Waco from the airport?
The best way to get from Waco Regional Airport to downtown Waco is by renting a car, using a taxi, or calling a rideshare. You can also book a shuttle ahead of time if you like. There is not much public transport between the airport and downtown, so using private ways to travel is the better choice.