Storm Lake Municipal Airport

Storm Lake Regional Airport: Your Bridge to the Heart of America

Introduction

In the heart of Iowa, you will find Storm Lake Municipal Airport (IATA:SLB), a mid-sized regional airport that provides an important transportation resource for people living in this area. The public-use airport was established in January 1946 and has expanded over the years to grow with general aviation needs as well as commercial demands. Whatever your reason for traveling to the Hawkeye State — be it a business trip, family vacation, or weekend escape — Storm Lake Municipal Airport offers an easy and efficient entry point.

Airlines and Destinations

The airport is mostly used for general aviation, but it does have limited commercial air service. Today, the airport is served by a single airline -- Midwest Connect (shown at left), a regional carrier offering nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). This provides convenient connections to Midwest Connect's broad network of domestic and international destinations.

Passenger Count and Flights

In the few years prior, Storm Lake Municipal Airport has maintained a steady stream of air traffic flow with about 20,000 passengers passing through its awaiting terminals per year. The airport sees around 5,000 aircraft movements per year, with the majority being general aviation operations. Although the airport is limited in its commercial service, it provides essential private and corporate aviation services to an important region.

How to Get Here

Only a few miles northeast of Storm Lake in Buena Vista County, the airport is reachable by road. The quickest way for travelers to reach the airport is via Interstate 35, then turning onto State Highway 7, which eventually turns into Airport. Parking is plentiful at the airport and available in short-term lots as well as long-term options for those arriving by car.

Parking

The Storm Lake Municipal Airport offers on-site parking exclusivity plans for its many visitors. Short-term and long-term parking is available at reasonable rates in the main lot right next to the terminal building. Rates are $2 per hour for short stay, and daily parking is only $10. In addition, the airport has specially designated spots that allow access for mobility-impaired travelers.

Transportation Prices

The Storm Lake Municipal Airport is extremely easy and affordable to access. It offers rides from local taxis and rideshare services that usually cost between $10-$15 for a one-way trip to the city center. There are also public transit options (the local bus system), with single-ride fares starting at just $1.50.

Terminal Layout

Storm Lake Municipal Airport has a single-level terminal building that provides all the standard facilities to passengers. The terminal has a large lobby area, with baggage claim and small concessions areas. Although the terminal may not be as big compared to other major international airports, it is built in such a way that passengers are comfortable and can easily manage their travel.

Navigate the Airport

Getting to and around Storm Lake Municipal Airport is easy. On arrival, passengers can find the terminal building clearly marked and accessible from their main car park. Signage and wayfinding within the terminal direct passengers to the proper check-in counters, security checkpoints, gate areas, etc. This is a fairly small airport, which means you will be able to easily find your way around the building and make your way through it speedily as well.

Getting Between Terminals

Storm Lake Municipal Airport is a one-terminal airport, so boarding and deboarding take place without the necessity to change terminals. From the same terminal building, passengers can easily access airline operations as well as security checkpoints and passenger amenities.

Services and Amenities

The Storm Lake Municipal Airport is obviously much smaller compared to the larger international hubs, but it provides a number of services and amenities that passengers would need. Within the terminal building is a mini concessions area featuring limited food and beverage amenities for passengers. The airport also provides complimentary Wi-Fi access in its terminal to help passengers stay connected while at the facility.

Restaurants and Shops

While the Storm Lake Municipal Airport is strictly just that, aircraft dining and shopping options are limited to snack vending machines inside their FBO (although incoming student pilots do on occasion receive free yummy cupcakes or fruit). The downtown offers a variety of local eateries and retail establishments. The airport is only a short drive from the city and has everything anyone would need in terms of classic American dishes to international choices. Lastly, the quaint nearby downtown area offers a variety of one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques for visitors to experience some local flair as well as pick up souvenirs.

Security and Customs

Being a domestic airport, Storm Lake Municipal Airport complies with TSA security standards. The security checkpoint can be found inside the terminal building, where all passengers and their baggage are screened. Since it is mainly a domestic airport, the airport does not have customs facilities to deal with international passengers.

Accessibility

Storm Lake Municipal Airport is dedicated to making sure all travelers experience a welcoming and accessible journey. The terminal is a sizeable building with services (for certain handicap) such as: Handicap parking spaces, ramps, and access boarding UTC. The airport staff is also well-trained to accommodate the needs of passengers with disabilities, making sure they have a safe and convenient trip.

Travel Tips

• Leave the airport at least 1 hour before departure time for check-in, security screening, and boarding.
• If you want to check a lot of baggage, make sure your airline doesn't have any specific baggage limits or requirements.
• Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to work and connect with others while spending time in it.
• Learn the layout of your airport and things to do at their venue so that you can make this traveling experience the best ever.
• Use public transportation or rideshare services to avoid expensive airport parking for extended duration trips.
• Be aware of any weather delays or cancellations for your travel plans.

Simply take a look at the following tips and you will be well on your way to making sure you have all of the information that it takes in order to safely travel out through Storm Lake Municipal Airport.