Airports Near Charleston
Looking for the nearest airport to Charleston? Charleston is served by a couple of airports located in different directions around the city. With two airports within a 50-mile radius, you still have solid options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to Charleston?
The closest airport to Charleston is University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI), a medium-sized airport located approximately 37.9 miles (61 km) north of the city center. The driving distance is about 49.5 miles (79.7 km), which typically takes around 1 hour and 4 minutes by car.
If you're looking for better connectivity, the nearest major airport is Indianapolis International Airport (IND), located about 101.3 miles (163.1 km) east of Charleston in a straight line. The driving distance is around 121.3 miles (195.2 km), with an average travel time of about 2 hours and 34 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
For better flight options, consider St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), which offers more connections. It's located 128.4 miles (206.7 km) southwest of Charleston. The driving distance is approximately 147.3 miles (237.1 km), with a typical drive time of 2 hours and 50 minutes.
University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI)
Direct Distance 📏
37.9 miles
61 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
49.5 miles
79.7 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 4 min
Direction ➤
North
Decatur Airport (DEC)
Located 43.5 miles (70 km) northwest of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
43.5 miles
70 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
54 miles
86.9 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 24 min
Direction ➤
Northwest
Nearby airports to Charleston
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois Willard Airport | CMI | Champaign | 37.9 mi (61 km) | 49.5 mi (79.7 km) | 1 h 4 min | Medium-sized |
| Decatur Airport | DEC | Decatur | 43.5 mi (70 km) | 54 mi (86.9 km) | 1 h 24 min | Medium-sized |
| Central Illinois Regional Airport | BMI | Bloomington | 78.3 mi (126 km) | 103.6 mi (166.7 km) | 2 h 3 min | Medium-sized |
| Springfield Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport | SPI | Springfield | 83.4 mi (134.2 km) | 95.4 mi (153.5 km) | 2 h 15 min | Medium-sized |
| Purdue University Airport | LAF | West Lafayette | 91.1 mi (146.6 km) | 121.3 mi (195.2 km) | 2 h 56 min | Medium-sized |
| Indianapolis International Airport | IND | Indianapolis | 101.3 mi (163.1 km) | 121.3 mi (195.2 km) | 2 h 34 min | Large |
| Evansville Regional Airport | EVV | Evansville | 106.6 mi (171.6 km) | 129.4 mi (208.3 km) | 3 h 10 min | Medium-sized |
| Scott Air Force Base | BLV | Belleville | 110.7 mi (178.1 km) | 129.1 mi (207.8 km) | 2 h 32 min | Medium-sized |
| General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport | PIA | Peoria | 113.8 mi (183.1 km) | 149.3 mi (240.3 km) | 2 h 49 min | Medium-sized |
| St. Louis Lambert International Airport | STL | St Louis | 128.4 mi (206.7 km) | 147.3 mi (237.1 km) | 2 h 50 min | Large |
| Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois | MWA | Marion | 128.8 mi (207.3 km) | 148.9 mi (239.7 km) | 2 h 48 min | Medium-sized |
| Owensboro–Daviess County Regional Airport | OWB | Owensboro | 133 mi (214.1 km) | 167.3 mi (269.2 km) | 4 h 6 min | Medium-sized |
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Charleston, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.