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Madison Dane County Airport MSN

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MSN Airport Insights & Guide

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Tony Hanseder
Reviewed by: Maura Huntz
Updated:

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Key MSN Airport Topics:

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MSN-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"MSN is relatively small, so it's easy to navigate. However, if you're flying out of Concourse A, make sure to arrive a bit early as it tends to get crowded during peak hours. The signage is clear, but having a map handy can save you some time." — John D., Madison, WI, August 2023

"The airport has a straightforward layout. If you’re connecting flights, the walking distance between gates is short, but always check the monitors for any last-minute gate changes." — Emily R., Sun Prairie, WI, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The best way to get to downtown Madison from the airport is by using the Metro Transit bus service. It's affordable and runs frequently. Alternatively, ride-sharing services are also a good option, especially if you have a lot of luggage." — Michael K., Middleton, WI, September 2023

"If you're renting a car, the rental car center is conveniently located right next to the baggage claim area. It’s a quick process, and you’ll be on your way in no time." — Lisa M., Fitchburg, WI, October 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, I recommend the Economy Lot. It's cheaper than the main parking garage and offers a free shuttle to the terminal that runs every 10-15 minutes." — David H., Verona, WI, November 2023

"If you're just picking someone up, use the Cell Phone Lot. It's free and only a short drive from the terminal. Once your party is ready, you can drive up to the arrivals area for a quick pickup." — Rachel S., Monona, WI, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss the local food options in the terminal. There's a great cheese shop that offers some of Wisconsin's finest. It's a perfect spot to grab a quick bite or pick up a souvenir." — Kevin T., Waunakee, WI, January 2024

"If you need to get some work done, the airport has free Wi-Fi and plenty of charging stations. The seating areas are comfortable, and there are quiet zones if you need some peace and quiet." — Olivia P., DeForest, WI, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check the TSA wait times on the airport’s website before you leave for the airport. It can save you a lot of stress if you know what to expect. Also, try to travel during off-peak hours to avoid long lines." — Brian L., Stoughton, WI, March 2024

"The airport staff are really helpful. If you have any issues or need assistance, don't hesitate to ask. They can provide real-time updates on flight statuses and help you navigate any delays." — Jessica W., Cottage Grove, WI, April 2024

iFly Tip: Prepare for a smooth journey with children by visiting our comprehensive guide.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Is Madison Airport (MSN) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!

Getting to Know MSN Airport

Discover the ease of flying from Madison Dane County Airport (MSN), a gateway nestled in Wisconsin's capital, offering a seamless and comfortable travel experience. MSN stands out with its unique art exhibits, showcasing local talent and providing a cultural touch to your journey. This guide simplifies your travel with essential information on flight statuses, terminal details, parking, dining, and shopping. Navigate MSN effortlessly and for more airport insights, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.

The airport has one main terminal with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 6 gates and Concourse B has 4 gates. The airport is mainly served by three major airlines: Delta, American, and United. Delta and American operate out of Concourse A while United operates out of Concourse B.

As you enter the airport, you will find the ticket counters for all airlines on the left side of the terminal. Once you have checked in, you can proceed to the security checkpoint which is located in the center of the terminal. After passing through security, you will find yourself in the main terminal area where you can access both concourses.

Concourse A offers a variety of food and beverage options including a coffee shop, a bar, and a restaurant. Concourse B has fewer options but still offers a coffee shop and a snack bar. Both concourses have restrooms and charging stations for electronic devices.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Madison Dane County Airport has only one terminal, the Main Terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. However, if you need to get to a specific gate, you can easily walk from one end of the terminal to the other in less than 10 minutes. There are no train or shuttle bus options available as the airport is small enough to navigate on foot.

iFly Tip: Stay ahead of the curve with advice on minimizing delays from our airport wait times page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At MSN Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers must remain in their vehicles at all times while waiting for passengers.

If drivers need to wait for their arriving passengers, there is a designated cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area is free to use and allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and collected their luggage. Once passengers have arrived, drivers can then proceed to the curbside for pick-up.

Parking Facilities & Options

The airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are multiple lots and garages located within close proximity to the main terminal, making it easy to park and catch your flight.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes while you wait for your party to arrive.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, and designated spaces are located near the terminal for easy access.

For those looking for an economical option, off-airport parking is available with shuttle service to the terminal. This can be a great way to save money on parking fees while still ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience.

Transportation Options

Madison Airport offers a variety of transportation options to help travelers get to their final destination:

  • Car Rentals: Madison Airport provides several car rental facilities located in the baggage claim area. Major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with a taxi stand located outside of the baggage claim area. Fares are determined by the meter, and drop-off areas are conveniently located near the terminal entrance.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available for pickup outside of the baggage claim area. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
  • Airport Shuttles: GO Riteway provides 24/7 shuttle service to nearby hotels and other destinations. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares vary depending on the destination. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
  • Public Transportation: The Madison Metro bus system serves the airport, with Route 20 connecting the airport to downtown Madison and other destinations. The bus stop is located outside of the baggage claim area, and fares are determined by the distance traveled. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or online.

iFly Tip: Skip the hassle of removing shoes and belts with TSA PreCheck.

Airport Hotels

When traveling, finding the right hotel near the airport can make your trip much more convenient. Whether you're in town for a quick business trip, visiting a renowned university, or exploring a vibrant downtown, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels, these establishments cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Most of these hotels are located within a short distance from the airport, ensuring easy access for air travelers. Many are also in close proximity to major highways, providing easy access to various city attractions. They offer an array of amenities, including fitness centers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and even fully-equipped kitchen suites. Regardless of your purpose of visit or budget, you're sure to find a suitable accommodation option. To explore more, view all Dane County Airport Hotels here.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at Madison Airport (MSN), you won't be disappointed. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit every taste and budget.

For a quick snack or coffee, head to Ancora Artisan Coffee & Tea or the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. Both are located in the main terminal and offer a cozy atmosphere to relax before your flight. If you're looking for a heartier meal, try the delicious burgers at Dotty Dumpling's Dowry or the Mexican-inspired dishes at Pedro's Mexican Restaurante. Both restaurants are located just outside the main terminal and offer a unique dining experience.

When it comes to shopping, the airport has a variety of options to choose from. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the Wisconsin Marketplace or the Madison News & Gifts store. If you need to stock up on travel essentials, head to the Hudson store for a wide selection of snacks, magazines, and travel accessories.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at MSN can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Dane County Regional Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the main terminal for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Dane County Regional Airport features a designated children's play area near the gate area.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: An ATM is available in the main terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the main terminal. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to check the status of your flight at MSN Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display that corresponds with your flight and check the status.

Another convenient way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to your flight status. This can include departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Madison Dane County Airport (MSN) is located in Madison, Wisconsin, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features one main terminal.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the MSN Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Madison Dane County Airport handles approximately 3,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 50 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MSN are Atlanta, Chicago, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Denver.
  • Hub Status: Madison Dane County Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although Delta Air Lines and American Airlines operate numerous flights from the airport.

Airport History

MSN Airport, located in Madison, Wisconsin, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1919: The airport was established as a municipal airport.
  • 1936: The airport was renamed Truax Field in honor of Lieutenant Thomas L. Truax, a local pilot who died in a plane crash.
  • 1942: The airport was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and used as a training base.
  • 1946: The airport was returned to civilian control after the war.
  • 1958: The airport was renamed Dane County Regional Airport.
  • 1985: The airport was renamed Dane County Regional Airport-Truax Field to honor Lieutenant Truax once again.
  • 2009: The airport was renamed Madison Dane County Regional Airport to better reflect its location and to avoid confusion with other airports in the region.
  • 2017: The airport completed a $40 million renovation project that included a new terminal building, parking garage, and other improvements.

Today, the airport serves over 1 million passengers each year and is an important transportation hub for the region.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Madison Dane County Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: MSN
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 608-246-3380
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Madison Dane County Regional Airport, 4000 International Lane, Madison, WI 53704, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.

Madison Dane County Airport Q&A

The airport has one main terminal with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B.
The airport is mainly served by Delta, American, and United Airlines.
Concourse A offers a coffee shop, a bar, and a restaurant, while Concourse B has a coffee shop and a snack bar.
Yes, transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation.
Yes, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal. There is also a cell-phone waiting area near the airport entrance.
The airport offers multiple parking lots and garages, handicapped parking, and off-airport parking with shuttle service.
Yes, the airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
You can check your flight status using in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or the flight departures page on ifly.com.
Yes, there are various accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels near the airport.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other special-needs services. Notify your airline in advance if you require assistance.