Lake Cumberland Regional Airport

Lake Cumberland Regional Airport, Somerset, Kentucky Charms Idlewild Magazine

Introduction

Surrounded by miles of beautiful hills and valleys in the Lake Cumberland region of Kentucky, the tiny town of Somerset is home to not only an airport that caters to general aviation but one with facilities that might make some larger airports envious. Located in Somerset, this midsized airport serves Pulaski County and the surrounding area, providing a transportation hub for the city since it opened in 1952. If you are a local discovering the area or just passing through and want to connect with some of Kentucky's natural beauty, Lake Cumberland Regional Airport can provide your ingress into adventure.

Airlines and Destinations

Although most U.S. airports use the same three-letter location identifier for the FAA and IATA, this airport is assigned SME by the FAA. Lake Cumberland Regional Airport was previously served using commercial airlines. Locair, a regional airline, once provided scheduled passenger service from the end of 2008 until February 2010. But after Locair pulled out, the airport has aimed to attract general aviation and private charter traffic in addition to serving its local needs.

Number of Passengers/Flights

In recent years, the number of passengers and flights has dropped as a result of its transition away from commercial service. At the peak of its use, thousands passed through every day, but without scheduled commercial service in recent years, overall traffic has dropped. Nonetheless, the airport serves as a valuable amenity to local private pilots along with providing service for charter operators and public access into the beautiful Lake Cumberland region.

How to Get Here

Lake Cumberland Regional Airport is easily reachable. The airport rests 3 NM (6 km) south of the SOM city center. The airport is accessible via U.S. Route 27, one of the major roadways connecting Somerset with other cities and towns in the region, marked by America's Byway runway across State Highway 80 (N37°01'17" W84°35'04").

Parking

The airport provides plenty of parking for those visiting. There is also parking near the most important points of interest so you can have easy access to a terminal or other airport facilities. There is no charge to park, so it's hassle-free for airport departures.

Transportation Options

Being a smaller regional airport, the transportation options in and out of Lake Cumberland Regional are few. But visitors can also take local taxi services or use apps like Uber to travel between the airport and their destination. These transportation services are priced at reasonable prices, with rates changing from service provider to service provider and the distance covered.

Terminal Layout

It's a small single-story terminal building that accommodates amenities for general aviation users. The terminal may not be as big or elaborate compared to larger international airports, but it is designed in such a way that helps passengers move around and provides them with comfort at the same time. It is easy to navigate, featuring easily distinguished locations for check-in, security, and other elements of use.

Navigate the Airport

Lake Cumberland Regional Airport is easy to get around. The terminal is small and well-signed, so it's also easy for visitors to navigate. It is very conducive to a stress-free arrival and departure no matter where you are positioned in the airport.

Getting Between Terminals

Lake Cumberland Regional Airport has a single terminal, so there is no need to worry about switching between terminals. The convenience of passengers can be ensured by making all essential facilities and services available within the building in a smooth manner.

Services and Amenities

Where Lake Cumberland Regional Airport may not offer everything a larger airport offers, you will find the basics to support general aviation travelers. The terminal has a pilot's lounge, small waiting area, and restroom. The airport also provides fuel services, aircraft storage options for private pilots, and charter operators.

Restaurants and Shops

Nearby, dining and shopping options are scarce due to the proximity of the airport. But several food, beverage, and retail establishments in Somerset (about an hour away) cater to the visitor. Whether you prefer a local eatery or an international chain, and even shopping for fun or necessities, can be had just outside the airport gates.

Security and Customs

Because Lake Cumberland Regional is a general aviation airport, not an international terminal riddled with security checkpoints and customs houses like the Jefferson County International Airport in San Francisco, this is expected to create a convenient security screening process for passengers, while preserving the departure experience inside the terminal.

Accessibility

We strive to provide facilities and services that are accessible for all customers visiting Lake Cumberland Regional Airport. Seating and waiting lounges in the terminal building are designed with people with special needs in mind, to make their travel experience smoother. The airport is committed to making travel safe and comfortable for all passengers, so accessibility features such as ramps from the front drive into concourses have been built in, with accessible parking at each terminal provided by a separate entrance prior to vehicle access.

Travel Tips

• If you are flying into a smaller airport, make sure to arrange transportation ahead of time, as compared to bigger terminals, your choices may be limited.
• Get to the airport early so that you have enough time for finding your way around and completing check-in or security.
• Visit the airport website or contact them directly to find out about available services, amenities, and any changes in operations.
• Plan your trip to get the most out of Somerset and the surrounding area, in beautiful Lake Cumberland.
• Understand the airport is small; there's more of a focus on general aviation than bigger commercial airports, so use that as an idea.