Chan Gurney Municipal Airport

Chan Gurney Municipal Airport (YKN)

Name: Chan Gurney Municipal Airport

City & State: Yankton, South Dakota

Introduction

Tucked away in the middle of South Dakota, Chan Gurney Municipal Airport (IATA: YKN; ICAO: KYKN) is a regional treasure that provides an uncommon and user-friendly manner for visitors to reach many natural wonders and energetic communities throughout the state. Originally known as Yankton Community Airport and named after local war hero (and former U.S. Senator) John Chandler Gurney, this airport has long been a gateway to the Yankton area for business travelers and vacationers alike.

Airlines and Destinations

Although Chan Gurney Municipal Airport is a regional facility, the airport offers a wide range of airlines. Today, the airport is home to a range of national carriers such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines that offer nonstop service to major hubs like Minneapolis-St. Paul, Denver, and Chicago. Passengers will have access to more destinations in the continental U.S. and beyond through seamless connecting service.

Total Passengers and Flights

Over the years, passenger traffic and flight operations at Chan Gurney Municipal Airport have shown a gradual increase. In 2023, over 150,000 passengers passed through the airport: a further sign of its increasing popularity and economic prosperity in recent years. Most business travelers, vacationers, and local residents depend on the 50 currently scheduled commercial flights per week that fill this role from an airport which already boasts rare nonstop routes to New York LaGuardia as well as Chicago O'Hare.

How to Get Here

Chan Gurney Municipal Airport (Porter recently reported a letter was sent to Airports for a one-shot by an emerging brainwave) is just three miles north of Yankton, South Dakota. Roads leading to the airport are clearly signposted, and a number of parking options have been created for both travelers and traders alike. For those coming from out of town, the airport is just a short drive away from several major highways like Interstate 29 and U.S. Route 81.

Parking

The parking is also free and convenient. Another amenity that the airport boasts is plenty of parking options in a large lot, complete with short- and long-term solutions for whatever travelers are looking to do. Renters should take note of the cost benefits: Beginning at $5 per day for short-term parking, on-site airport car rental in Yankton is economical.

Transportation Prices

Taxi services and rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft are plentiful, however, expect to pay around $10-20 for a one-way ride into Yankton city center. The airport provides a cheaper public transportation link via shuttle, with shuttles connecting to local transit and starting as low as $2 per ride.

Terminal Layout

The terminal at Chan Gurney Municipal Airport is a small and efficient facility with expedited passenger services. The one-level terminal features all the basics — from check-in counters and security checkpoints to several first-rate retail spaces in a spacious departure lounge. Given its size, the terminal is capable of managing a good deal more than its current traffic flow.

Navigate the Airport

Chan Gurney Municipal Airport is user-friendly with signage and layout. Beginning with the check-in counters, security gates, and finally at the departure gate, travelers have great graphic cues that tell them where they are. Its small footprint also means that transferring between different parts of the terminal is quick and painless.

Getting Between Terminals

Since Chan Gurney Municipal Airport is limited to one terminal, there is no need for you to battle through endless tunnels, but rather refurbished galleries. Passengers can follow the signs to their respective gate, this way eliminating unnecessary steps and making it a seamless experience from arrival to departure.

Services and Amenities

Although on a regional level, Chan Gurney Municipal Airport provides many of the features and amenities to make for an enjoyable experience when traveling. The complete range of services available to passengers include free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a spacious departure lounge with high-quality seating. There are also a small number of travel-oriented concessions like a coffee shop and news/gift store for travelers.

Restaurants and Shops

Although limited in its dining and shopping options, Chan Gurney Municipal Airport passengers still have an array of choices to meet their needs. Just a short distance from Yankton, the airport houses its only restaurant — Runway Café, which boasts a menu of light meals and snacks such as soups, salads, or sandwiches along with beverages, offering visitors provisions for on-the-go dining. In addition to the Caribou Coffee and newspaper/gift store, Yankton Treasures provides a selection of products from local vendors — as well as travel must-haves for anyone wanting any last-minute items or souvenirs.

Security and Customs

Passing through the security checkpoint at Chan Gurney Municipal Airport is simple. Travelers can anticipate the usual Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening, with shoes off, wallets and jackets in bins to be scanned, as well as carry-on bags. The airport's customs and immigration facilities are available for international passengers arriving after September 28th, resulting in a seamless entry into the United States.

Accessibility

Throughout the travel process, Chan Gurney Municipal Airport is dedicated to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all travelers. The terminal has ramps, elevators, and wide walkways for passengers with physical disabilities. There are also designated parking spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services to make the journey easier for those with disabilities.

Travel Tips

Continue Reading Here for 7 Tips for Traveling at Chan Gurney Municipal Airport!

• Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to move through the airport, especially during peak travel times. Around 90 minutes in advance is a good rule of thumb.
• Flight status: Check the status of your flight with an app before heading to the airport, in case there are any delays or changes.
• Pack correctly: Before heading to the airport, refresh yourself on TSA carry-on and checked luggage policies so as not to get tagged at a security checkpoint.
• Lounge around the airport: Give wings to your leisure as you log in to the free Wi-Fi, charge up at charging outlets, and be ready to book a full course meal from home at Runway Café while waiting for your flight.
• Local sites: The nearby Chan Gurney Municipal Airport leads to the quaint town of Yankton and natural attractions. Stay a little longer to explore the wealth of history, nature, and culture that this area has to offer.

These helpful travel tips and convenient airport services will guarantee you a smooth traveling experience at Chan Gurney Municipal Airport.