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Purdue University Airport

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到普渡大学机场 Tippecanoe County, Indiana. This bustling airport is only 2 nautical miles from Downtown Lafayette. It is owned by Purdue University and serves many travelers. It is reportedly, according to the Regional Development Authority of Indiana airport stats/research data, second only to Indianapolis International Airport in total passenger counts. More than 3,000 passengers used this flight in 2022. Southern Airways Express service to/from Chicago O'Hare announced in January. This brand new airline operates daily flights from/to MidAmerica Airport. 05 Feb 2019 Warren R. Moser Purdue Airport Streamlines Your Visit, Departure.

Live Air Traffic

###ARTICLE Description: Purdue University Airport (IATA: LAF), serving Tippecanoe County, Indiana. The airpark is about 2 nautical miles southwest of Lafayette's central business district. I asked, "Why is the airport so busy?" In fact, it is the 2nd busiest airport in Indiana after Indianapolis International Airport. About 3,161 passenger boardings were recorded at the airport in 2022. Southern Airways Express operates daily flights to Chicago O'Hare International Airport. It is categorized as a regional general aviation facility by the Federal Aviation Administration in its National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2021–25. Purdue University Airport—flying, or just watching from the tools-down area, is good for travel fans. ###END
air Arrivals
air Departures

Basic information about airport

Airport code: KLAF
Type: medium
Continent: NA
Country code: US
Country: United
City Lafayette
IATA: LAF
Longitude: -86.93689727783203
Latitude: 40.41230010986328

Purdue University Airport on Google Maps

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  • WindWind: 1.84 m/sec
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-6 C / 21.2 °F

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The Lighter Side of Purdue: The Boeing® 727 at the Purdue University Airport

Introduction

In the heart of West Lafayette, Indiana lies Purdue University Airport (IATA: LAF), a symbol of the esteemed aviation history at this university. Originally the country's first university-owned airport, this mid-sized facility opened in 1930 and has since become a hive of activity with corporate aviation operations alongside general aviation traffic servicing Purdue University's prestigious flight training school for over these decades.

Airlines and Destinations

Commercial air service has returned to Purdue University Airport following a 20-year absence. In 2024, Southern Airways Express -- part of the Surf Air Mobility family -- launched service with a total of 24 round-trip flights weekly to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago. With the launch of this new service, passengers can now fly to more than 240 global destinations on flights operated by top airlines in partnership with Southern.

Number of Passengers and Departures

Purdue University Airport had 3,161 passenger boardings in 2022, according to data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The airport is poised for a significant increase in both passenger numbers and flight operations with the entry of Southern Airways Express.

How to Get Here

The Purdue University Airport is a public airport 2 nautical miles (3.7 km) southwest of the central business district of Lafayette, in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA. The airport is located in West Lafayette and there are plenty of parking areas available on the airport premises.

Parking

There is a range of parking options at the airport. There is also one east airport gravel lot in addition to the main lot, which is available for A-, B-, and C-permit holders. Staff for Parking Facilities are located on-campus at all times and can assist with questions or concerns during regular business hours.

Transportation Pricing

Flying into the Purdue University Airport, fares for passengers will be competitive. The airport itself is serviced by ride-sharing services, taxis, and shuttle service, ensuring convenient and cost-effective methods for travel to the Airport.

Terminal Layout

Purdue Airport has a small terminal facility conducive to both general aviation and commercial air service. The construction of the new Amelia Earhart Terminal will soon follow and add to these amenities.

Navigate the Airport

The process of taking flights to and from the Purdue University Airport is relatively painless. The facility is equipped with signage and wayfinding to assist in guiding passengers in the right direction – for example, directing them down a pathway noting it leads either into an airport terminal building or FBOs (or other on-site amenities).

Getting Between Terminals

Purdue University Airport operates as a single-terminal airport, and passengers can move around easily. Arrivals, meanwhile, are handled and processed inside the same compact facility.

Services and Amenities

While the Purdue University Airport may be traditionally known for its research and academic ties, we have much to offer our users. This should be a place where general aviation pilots can get fuel service, aircraft maintenance and flight planning resources, as well as passenger amenities such as places to wait and restrooms.

Restaurants and Shops

Though the Purdue University Airport does not currently have on-site dining or retail establishments, there are several restaurants and shops located nearby, and it is only a short drive from the airport to access a range of dining and shopping options.

Security and Customs

Standard security procedures apply, as this is a general aviation airport used by private and corporate aircraft. Travelers must be prepared to adhere appropriately to the TSA regulations and procedures as they do when passing through any facility.

Accessibility

Purdue University Airport is ADA compliant and endeavors to provide all passengers with the same high standards in facilities and assistance. From its infrastructure to amenities, every part of it is made disabled-friendly, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.

Travel Tips

Whether the flight is a private jet or transporting deceased human remains, Purdue University Airport asks that passengers report to their on-site terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. This gives you plenty of time to get through the airport, go through any required security measures, and board your plane effortlessly.