Wilmington International Airport Travel Guide - Beyond Borders

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Wilmington International Airport Travel Guide

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Remitly Editorial Staff
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Key Highlights

Are you thinking about taking a trip through Wilmington? Here’s a quick way to see why Wilmington International Airport, or ILM, is easy for travelers.

  • ILM is the third biggest airport in North Carolina. People say it’s all about good service and that warm Southern feel.

  • You will find big airlines like Delta, American, and United here. They have non-stop flights to many top spots.

  • The airport just finished a $60 million terminal expansion. There are now five more gates, a restaurant, and new places to shop and eat.

  • It’s no trouble to find your way. Parking is easy, and it’s simple to get your bags after you land.

  • You will also get fun extras like a putting green and nice rocking chairs inside the terminal for your comfort.

Introduction

Welcome to Wilmington, North Carolina. When you come to this part of the United States, your trip starts at Wilmington International Airport, or ILM. This airport is not too big, which helps make your travel easy and good for you. There is no stress or long waiting like in some big crowded airports. At the terminal, you get to feel so much Southern charm. There is art to look at, nice places to sit, and it’s simple to move from one area to the next. When you fly in or out of ILM, your time in Wilmington will get off to a good start right away.

Overview and Location of Wilmington International Airport

Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is the main airport for people in southeastern North Carolina. It gives people access to big airlines and to planes that are not for large crowds. The airport property is easy to get to because it is in New Hanover County. It is also very close if you want to drive into historic Wilmington or out to the nice local beaches.

The airport is an important place for travel in this area. ILM wants to help people have a smooth trip. Because of where it is, this airport is a good place to start your visit to the Cape Fear area on the coast. Now, let’s talk about how to get there and what you will find at Wilmington International Airport.

Airport code, address, and access routes

Getting to and from Wilmington International Airport is easy. The airport’s FAA code is ILM. You will see this when you book your flight. It will help you know that you have the right airport.

The airport is right in the middle of Wilmington, North Carolina. When you need to go to the terminal, it’s a short trip from any part of the city. Be sure to keep the address and phone number close by when you are getting ready to go.

  • Airport Code: ILM

  • Address: 1740 Airport Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28405

  • Phone: 910-341-4125

You will find the drive is simple, whether you use your own car or a ride-share. The main routes to ILM are clear. The signs will show you where the terminal and parking are. You can get in and out of the airport with no trouble, and it gives you a good amount of time before your flight.

Facilities map and main terminal layout

Navigating the ILM terminal is a stress-free experience. The airport features a single, easy-to-manage terminal that has recently benefited from a significant terminal expansion. This project has enhanced the passenger experience by adding more space, services, and comfort.

The layout is intuitive, with ticketing and baggage claim on the lower level and the security checkpoint leading to the gate area on the upper level. The recent expansion added five new gates, a new restaurant, and additional concession areas, so you have more options while you wait for your flight.

The terminal is designed for efficiency and comfort, reflecting the welcoming spirit of New Hanover County.

Facility Level

Key Features

Level 1 (Lower)

Baggage Claim, Ground Transportation, Rental Cars

Level 2 (Upper)

Ticketing, Security Checkpoint, Gate Area, Dining, Shopping

Airlines, Destinations, and Flight Information

Are you thinking about where you can go from ILM? Wilmington International Airport makes it easy to reach many top places with great airlines. You can book a flight for work or fun with carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Avelo.

No matter if you want to fly to a big city or relax in Fort Lauderdale, there are easy non-stop and seasonal trips. The airport keeps adding new spots so all people can start their trip from Wilmington without trouble. Let’s take a look at the flights and airlines you have there.

Domestic and seasonal flight routes

ILM has a great list of non-stop flights that help you reach many big cities and vacation spots. You can get to important hubs for international flights, or go straight to the top places in the country. The airport keeps adding new flights to meet the needs of people who travel.

There is year-round service to the main cities, and during some times of the year, there are even more routes you can use for your travel plans. Some of the most traveled places you can get to from here are sunny florida cities and some major spots in the northeast.

  • Florida Destinations: Fort myers (RSW), Orlando (MCO), Miami (MIA), Tampa (TPA)

  • Northeast Destinations: New york city (LGA), Boston (BOS), Philadelphia (PHL)

  • Other Major Hubs: Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)

Flight times and schedules may change, so you should check with the airlines to have the latest update before you go.

Major airlines operating at ILM

A diverse mix of major and low-cost carriers operates out of Wilmington International Airport, giving you plenty of choices when booking your travel. These airlines connect southeastern North Carolina to the rest of the United States and beyond through their extensive networks.

You can fly with trusted names like American Airlines, Delta, and United, which offer multiple daily flights to their major hubs. This provides excellent connectivity for both domestic and international journeys. Additionally, airlines like Avelo, Breeze, and Sun Country offer non-stop flights to a variety of leisure destinations.

Here’s a look at some of the major airlines and their primary hub destinations from ILM.

Airline

Key Hubs/Destinations from ILM

American Airlines

Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Philadelphia (PHL)

Delta Air Lines

Atlanta (ATL), New York (LGA)

United Airlines

Newark (EWR), Washington D.C. (DCA)

Passenger Services and Amenities

At Wilmington International Airport, your comfort matters. The ILM terminal gives you many helpful services to make sure you have a good time while you wait. You can use this time to get work done, eat some good food, or shop before you go.

The airport has free Wi-Fi and cozy places to sit and relax. There are also special things that show what makes wilmington unique. You will find all the services you need here. Keep reading to find out more about eating, shopping, and other important things you can do at the terminal.

Dining, shopping, and lounge options

Feeling hungry or want to pick up a souvenir before your flight? ILM gives you plenty of choices now because of the recent terminal expansion. You can even try out the new full-service restaurant.

It is easy to get food and drinks before or after the security checkpoint. There are options if you want a fast snack or need time to sit down and enjoy a meal. Most dining and shopping places are close to the gate area. That way, you can be near your departure point and just relax.

  • Dining: You will find cafes and a full-service restaurant with a bar, so there is something for everyone.

  • Shopping: There are shops for travel basics, gifts, and neat Wilmington items you might like to take home.

  • Lounge: In the gate area, you can relax in comfortable seats, and there are rocking chairs that add a bit of Southern charm.

ILM also has a fun putting green, so you can work on your golf swing as you wait.

Wi-Fi, charging stations, and other traveler essentials

Staying connected is simple at ILM. The airport has free Wi-Fi in the whole terminal. You can use it to go online, check emails, or watch shows while you wait for your flight. This is a great help for people who travel today.

If you worry about your device losing power, do not. The terminal has many charging spots. You will find them near the gates and in the lounge. You can charge your phone, laptop, or tablet before your flight. That way, you will be ready for your trip.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free, fast internet is there for all passengers in every part of the terminal.

  • Charging Stations: Many outlets and USB ports are set up in places where people sit, so you can charge your devices.

These handy services make the travel experience at ILM easy and smooth.

Parking and Ground Transportation

Getting to and from ILM is simple. The airport in wilmington gives you many parking options. You can find one for a quick trip or if you plan to be away for a week. From your baggage pickup to the parking lot, the whole setup is made for ease.

When you land, there are many ways to leave the airport. You have ground transportation options like rental cars, shuttles, and taxis. It is easy to get from ilm to downtown wilmington or reach the closest beaches. Let’s see what you can pick from below.

Short-term, long-term, and economy parking options

Wilmington International Airport has different parking options on airport property, and they are all just a quick walk to the terminal. You do not need to wait for a shuttle. This helps you get to your gate fast and easy. Pick a lot that works well for your budget and the time of your trip.

The parking lots are well-lit. People patrol them often, so you can feel good about leaving your car there. If you need to park for a few hours or a few weeks, you can find something that works for you.

  • Short-Term Parking: Good for picking up or dropping off someone. It is the closest spot to the terminal.

  • Long-Term Parking: Good for people who will be away for a few days. There are rates for daily and weekly parking.

  • Economy Parking: This one costs the least and is great for long trips. You will still walk to the terminal with no trouble.

With these choices, you will have no trouble finding the right parking spot for your plans at wilmington airport.

Rental cars, shuttles, and taxis to downtown Wilmington

Once you have picked up your luggage, there are many ways for you to get from the terminal to downtown Wilmington or somewhere else you want to go. You will see rental car counters right by baggage claim. You can get your car fast and be on your way.

If you do not want to drive, you can walk outside the terminal and there are taxis and ride-share cars waiting. They will take you right to your hotel, the beach, or another spot in Wilmington. Some hotels offer shuttles, so check to see if your hotel has one before you arrive.

  • Rental Cars: The main rental car companies all have spots inside for you to rent a car.

  • Taxis & Ride-Shares: You can get in a taxi or a ride-share right outside the terminal.

With these choices, getting from the wilmington terminal to your final stop is quick and easy.

Security, TSA PreCheck, and Traveler Tips

Going through security at ILM is often easy and quick. The TSA team works hard to help every person move through the checkpoint in a safe and fast way. Still, it’s a good idea to be ready.

If you know the security steps and what time you should get to the airport, your trip can have less stress. Some people can use programs like TSA PreCheck. These can help you get through screening much faster. Below, we will talk about when you should arrive at ILM and give more details about tsa programs.

To have a good start to your trip, you need to give yourself enough time for check-in and tsa screening. ILM has a simple and quick layout, but planning ahead is still the best way. This is true for busy times, like in june when a lot of people travel.

You should try to get to the airport at least 90 minutes before your plane leaves if you are flying in the country. This lets you park, check your bags with your airline, and go through tsa. You will not need to feel rushed.

  • Standard Arrival: Be at ILM about 90 minutes before your flight leaves.

  • Peak Travel Times: Try to get to the airport up to two hours early if you are flying out during a holiday or busy mornings.

If you follow these tips, you will have plenty of time to get to your gate. You will also be able to take it easy before you get on your flight.

TSA PreCheck and accessibility services

Wilmington International Airport tries to make things quicker and easier for people by offering TSA PreCheck. With this program, people who are in it can use a special line. It helps you move through the security check faster. You do not have to take off your shoes, or your laptop from your bag. Things like liquids, belts, and light jackets can all stay on or in your bag too.

If you travel a lot, signing up for TSA PreCheck can really help you save time at the airport. You need to do an online application. After that, go to an enrollment center to finish the process. Once you get approved, just put your Known Traveler Number on your airline tickets.

  • TSA PreCheck: There is a special lane at ILM. People can move faster through security in the terminal with it.

  • Accessibility Services: The wilmington airport will be helpful for all people. If you need things like wheelchair help or other support, ask your airline for it.

These services make it easy for you to move around the sitere and get through the tsa process. Every person at the airport will be supported in doing these things.

Real-Time Flight Updates and Airport Assistance

It’s important to know what is happening with your flight. This will help your travel day at Wilmington International Airport go well. The airport gives you real-time updates on when flights will arrive and leave. You can use this to plan when you should get to the airport, or when to pick up someone who is coming in.

If you need help, such as finding your gate or looking for something you lost, help at the airport is easy to get. Having the right contact numbers for the airport can fix your problems fast. Now let’s see how to find this information about Wilmington.

How to check arrival and departure status

There are a few quick ways to find out what is happening with your ILM flight. The best and most trusted way is to check the Wilmington International Airport website, FlyILM.com. There, you can see all arrivals and departures in real-time.

You can look up your flight by typing in the flight number. You also have the option to look through the whole list of flights for the day. The site refreshes the details often, so you can get the latest on any hold-ups, flights that do not take off, or when your gate is moved. Your airline may also share instant updates through their own apps.

  • Airport Website: Go to FlyILM.com to see live boards for arrivals and departures.

  • Airline Apps: Download your airline’s app to get push updates for your flight.

With these options, you can keep up with your wilmington or ilm plans. You will feel less worried on your travel day since you know what is coming.

Lost and found information and airport contacts

Losing something while you travel can be tough, but ILM makes it easy to try to get your stuff back. If you think you lost your item in the terminal, like near the gate area or by security, you need to reach out to the lost and found at the airport.

The best way to start is by calling the airport’s main info number. The staff will listen to you and let you know if they found your thing. If you left something on the plane, you have to call the airline and not the airport.

  • Airport Lost and Found: If you lose something in the terminal, call the main airport information line at 910-341-4125 to get help.

  • Airline Lost and Found: If you lose something on a plane, talk to the airline you flew with.

Having these Wilmington airport numbers ready can help you a lot if you lose your stuff at ILM or near the gate area. This makes your time at the airport less stressful.

History and Development of Wilmington International Airport

Wilmington International Airport stands as a important part of how travel works in southeastern North Carolina. Since the start, ILM has helped connect people in the region with other parts of the US. Over the years, service has reached more places like New Haven.

The airport keeps making the terminal and other spaces better, so people have a nicer time when they visit. The most recent terminal expansion shows how ILM always works for the future and gives good service. Here are a few big moments from the journey of ILM.

Historical milestones and key expansions

The history of Wilmington International Airport is marked by continuous progress. Over the years, the airport has undergone several key expansions to accommodate more passengers and larger aircraft, including improvements to its runway and terminal facilities.

These developments have been crucial in establishing ILM as the third-largest airport in North Carolina. Each expansion has added capacity and modern amenities, reflecting the growth of the Wilmington region itself. The airport’s evolution showcases a long-term vision for serving the community.

The most significant recent milestone was the completion of a major expansion project in 2023, which dramatically transformed the passenger experience.

Milestone

Description

Early Development

Establishment of the airport to serve the Cape Fear region.

Runway Expansions

Periodic extensions to accommodate larger commercial aircraft.

2023 Terminal Expansion

A $60 million project that added five gates and new concessions.

Recent improvements and future projects

The most important change at ILM lately is the $60 million terminal expansion that finished in 2023. This terminal project made the airport much bigger and better. Now, ILM can take care of more travelers for many years to come.

This work shows that the people who run the airport think about the future. The new space and changes improve things for everyone. The terminal now gives more room for people and helps meet what they need. By June of the last year, most of this work was done. The project stands out as a key step in making ILM a more modern place.

  • Five Additional Gates: The terminal expansion added more gates, so there can be more flights at one time.

  • New Concessions: There is a new restaurant now, plus more shops, giving travelers better food and shopping options.

These changes are part of ILM’s promise to be the best airport around.

Conclusion

To sum up, Wilmington International Airport is a great starting point to visit the beautiful coastal part of North Carolina. The airport has modern spaces, many flight choices, and puts a focus on keeping travelers happy. ILM is made to make your trip better from the moment you get there. You can grab a meal or find your way around with easy ground travel options, so this place has what you need. When you are getting ready for your next trip, keep in mind the tips we have talked about here. These tips can help you have a smooth time at the airport. If you have any questions or need any help, you can always ask. The team is here for you. Have a good trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What parking options are available at Wilmington International Airport?

Wilmington International Airport has a few easy parking choices right on the airport property. You can pick from short-term, long-term, and economy lots. All these are close to the terminal, so you can walk in. This makes it simple to get a good parking spot that works for your budget and the amount of time you need to park.

How can I find real-time flight status for ILM?

You can see real-time flight status for ILM right on the airport’s site, FlyILM.com. The site shows live trackers for arrival and departure times. You can also check your flight with your airline’s app, which will send you push updates if your flight changes.

How do I contact the airport for lost and found?

To reach Wilmington International Airport (ILM) about things lost in the terminal or at security, you should call their main info line at 910-341-4125. If you think you left something on the airplane, please get in touch with your airline’s lost and found department directly.