North Central State Airport

North Central State Airport — Gateway to the Heart of Rhode Island

Introduction

Located in the heart of Rhode Island, North Central State Airport (SFZ) is a critical air link for communities north of Providence within the greater metropolitan area. From its inception in 1951, this public-use airport has developed into a dependable reliever facility that accommodates the varied aviation demands of our region and beyond.

Airlines and Destinations

Though North Central State Airport offers no commercial passenger service at this time, it is still a popular hub of general aviation activity. Over the years, it has served a number of private aircraft (including corporate jets, recreational flyers, and flight training operations). SFZ is used by pilots and airplane owners from all over the region for their travel and aviation requirements.

Passengers and Flightcounts

North Central State Airport is categorized as a reliever airport that does not report commercial passenger numbers. The facility has around 34 based aircraft and moderate general aviation traffic movements on a daily basis. The airport has two runways, which are 5/23 and 15/33, with the one being longer for aircraft of all sizes to facilitate smooth departures.

How to Get Here

With a location 3 nautical miles east of the town, North Central State Airport is very easy to reach for passengers coming from other parts in Smithfield. For travelers heading to the airport, take Interstate 295 and get off at the Greenville Avenue/Putnam Pike (Rte.) Proceed to the airport entrance shown (below) on Jenckes Hill Road by following appropriate signs.

Parking

There are many parking options available for guests and pilots at the airport. Car parks in the vicinity of the terminal building make it easy to access these amenities. Free Parking: The North Central State Airport offers free parking, a budget-friendly alternative for travelers flying out of the airport.

Transportation Options

They have no major public transportation system because they are mainly general aviation airfields. On the other hand, many alternatives for airport transportation exist. Prices, which depend on service and distance traveled, will vary with taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, as well as rental cars.

Terminal Layout

The building itself is a small, modest single-story tenant with airport offices and pilot lounges. The terminal is well laid out so it is fairly easy for passengers to find their way around and access the many services, as well.

Navigate the Airport

It is easy to get around North Central State Airport — it has only one runway, and there are signs everywhere with clear directions. The new sleek design makes areas like the terminal building, FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) facilities, and other key access points on an airport much more easily identifiable to visitors. Airport staff is also there to help and guide you for a hassle-free experience.

Getting Between Terminals

Being a single-terminal airport, passengers require no moving paths as gate numbers are also low. The primary terminal building handles all airport operations and services, meaning there is no need to transfer between terminals for passengers.

Services and Amenities

Although it does not provide nearly as much in the way of services and amenities that most larger commercial airports do, North Central State Airport is still able to offer general aviation users facilities and resources necessary for occasional travelers. The existing FBO at the airport is open for operation, providing services such as fueling, maintenance, or other support to both pilots and passengers. Also inside the terminal building is a pilots' lounge where people can come and sit down, hang out, or wait for their flights.

Restaurants and Shops

No Restaurants or Retail at North Central State Airport. While the direct terminal has very little in terms of dining or shopping, there are several options directly accessible via car within a handful of minutes from the airport located in Smithfield and Lincoln to cater to pilots, passengers, and visitors.

Security and Customs

North Central State Airport is not a commercial airport but rather a general aviation one, and if you were to fly into NRS, your arrival experience would be more akin to that found at some smaller airports in the U.S. where there is little or no security screening, let alone customs procedures. The use of the airport must comply with all relevant civil aviation regulations and security requirements, for both pilots and passengers.

Accessibility

North Central State Airport is dedicated to offering compliant facilities and services for all of its visitors. The terminal building and surrounding areas are accessible for people with disabilities, including parking spaces near entrances to the airport, ramps in terminals 1A- T1D & Terminal 3 Airport Metro Station leading up to the departure lobby and arrival sidewalk next to drop-off bays on TC point modulating slopes where a blind assistance path of travel is specifically marked, as well as a low counter at boarding gates that can be used by wheelchair users.

Travel Tips

Whether it is your first time visiting North Central State Airport or you have been there a dozen times, always make sure that everything is well-planned and organized. Get to the airport with plenty of spare time for any pre-flight customs, and ensure a timely departure or arrival. Also, take into consideration the time that the airport is in operation and if there are any seasonal or weather events that may affect your flight.