Tupelo Regional Airport, Your Connection to the Soul of Mississippi
Introduction
Situated in the heart of Dixie, the All-America City and Birthplace of Tupelo, Mississippi, the Birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo Regional Airport (IATA: TUP) is a mid-size airport that provides critical air transportation service for its surrounding region. Offering a central location and convenient routes, Tupelo Regional Airport has gained traction as an excellent choice for anyone wanting to fly into Mississippi to experience the magnificence of both its cultural depth and natural beauty.
Airlines and Destinations
Currently, Tupelo Regional Airport is served by the commercial airline Contour Airlines with scheduled passenger service subsidized through the federal government's Essential Air Service (EAS) program. Direct flights to Nashville, Tennessee are now available at the airport, and there are more destinations on the horizon.
Passenger and Flight Volume
Over the past decade or so, Tupelo Regional Airport has handled thousands of passengers through its gates. At last count in 2023, there were about 11,500 enplanements per year from this terminal. Airport operations on the airport's single runway, 18/36, include a mix of general aviation and commercial flights that ebb and flow based on seasonal demand and support for local land use.
How to Get Here
Tupelo Regional Airport is a public airport in northeast Mississippi, west of Tupelo, that opened in November 1946. Several major highways, including Highway 78 and US-6 in Mississippi, lead to the airport, facilitating access for those arriving by car.
Parking
The facility has plenty of space for those arriving at the airport to park their cars, with short-term and long-term lots available. The rates are reasonable, and the parking lots are well-lit, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience for all visitors.
Transportation Prices
There are several alternatives for travelers to arrive at or depart from Tupelo Regional Airport. The typical fare is $10 to $20 for a ride from the airport into the city center on rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft. You can also catch a taxi, which, depending on your destination and the number of people, will cost between $10 and $20.
Terminal Layout
Tupelo Regional Airport has a terminal building with ticket counters, a security checkpoint, and a passenger waiting area in the same space. The terminal was designed with both experience and efficiency in mind for travelers of all ages, featuring easy-to-read signage and a straightforward layout.
Navigate the Airport
Navigating Tupelo Regional Airport is a breeze. This enables passengers to move between their gates, baggage claim, and other important functions with ease due to the smaller size of the terminal building and clear signage. The airport also has staff in place to help and answer any questions travelers may have.
Getting Between Terminals
Since Tupelo Regional Airport has only one terminal, there is no need for passengers to shift between multiple terminals. All arrival and departure traffic is handled in the same place.
Services and Amenities
Tupelo Regional Airport provides a variety of amenities for the convenience and enjoyment of their passengers. This includes a pilot lounge, aircraft maintenance and repair services, and ground transportation. Additionally, the airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout, allowing passengers to remain connected while spending time at the facility.
Restaurants and Shops
The dining and shopping options within Tupelo Regional Airport are somewhat limited, but there are several establishments in close proximity to the airport that offer a range of local and international culinary options, as well as souvenirs and other travel necessities.
Security and Customs
Tupelo Regional Airport follows all Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policies and procedures for the safety of travelers. Since the airport primarily serves domestic flights within the United States, there are no customs requirements for international travel.
Accessibility
Tupelo Regional Airport is dedicated to offering a welcoming environment and exceptional customer service for all travelers. The terminal building and amenities are ADA accessible, with features that include handrails, designated parking spaces, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Travel Tips
If you are passing through the Tupelo Regional Airport, ensure that you arrive at the terminal at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in, security screening, and boarding. You should also keep an eye on any weather-related delays or cancellations, as the airport can be sensitive to sudden changes in summer weather conditions.