PIA Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know PIA Airport
Welcome to Peoria General Downing Airport (PIA), the central Illinois hub known for its unique "Air Mall" that lets you shop as if you were in the city center. Flying in or out, we streamline your journey with easy parking, diverse dining, and shopping. Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for essential tips, from flight updates to terminal maps, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
iFly Tip: Find out how to make the most of online check-in for your next flight.
Navigating PIA's Terminals
PIA Airport has one terminal building with two levels, and a total of 10 gates. The terminal is divided into two concourses, A and B. Concourse A has gates A1 to A5, while Concourse B has gates B6 to B10.
Major airlines operating at PIA include Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Allegiant Air operates from gate A2, while American Airlines and Delta Air Lines operate from gates B7 and B8 respectively.
Passengers can find various services and amenities at the airport terminal, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and restrooms. There are also charging stations available for electronic devices, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
the airport is a small airport with only one terminal building. Therefore, passengers do not need to worry about navigating between different terminals. All gates, shops, and restaurants are located in the same building, making it easy for travelers to find everything they need in one place.However, if passengers need to get to other parts of the airport, such as the parking lot or rental car center, they can take advantage of the airport's complimentary shuttle service. The shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes and stops at various locations around the airport, including the terminal building, parking lot, and rental car center. The shuttle is wheelchair accessible and easy to use, making it a convenient option for all passengers.Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from PIA-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
"PIA is a small airport with a single terminal, making it easy to navigate. Once you pass through security, you'll find all the gates close by. It's a straightforward layout, so you won't get lost." — John D., Peoria, IL, August 2023
"If you need assistance, the information desk is right by the entrance. The staff there are very helpful and can guide you to your gate or any other facility you need." — Emily R., East Peoria, IL, September 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The best way to get to PIA from downtown Peoria is by using the shuttle service. It's reliable and runs frequently, ensuring you won't miss your flight." — Michael S., Peoria Heights, IL, October 2023
"If you're driving, consider using the car rental services available at the airport. They offer competitive rates and a wide range of vehicles." — Sarah L., Bartonville, IL, November 2023
Parking
"Parking at PIA is quite convenient. The long-term parking lot is just a short walk from the terminal, and the rates are reasonable compared to larger airports." — David M., Morton, IL, December 2023
"For short trips, the short-term parking lot is right next to the terminal. It's perfect for picking up or dropping off passengers." — Linda K., Pekin, IL, January 2024
Inside the Airport
"If you have some time before your flight, check out the gift shop and the small café. They offer a decent selection of snacks and souvenirs." — Karen T., Washington, IL, February 2024
"The airport has free Wi-Fi, which is great for getting some work done or just browsing the internet while you wait." — Robert H., Creve Coeur, IL, March 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"To avoid delays, try to arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can get a bit long, but they usually move quickly." — Jessica B., Germantown Hills, IL, April 2024
"Keep an eye on the weather. Peoria can have unpredictable weather, so check your flight status regularly and plan accordingly." — Mark P., Dunlap, IL, May 2024
iFly Tip: Get essential tips on baggage management to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At PIA, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so it is important to plan accordingly. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicle unattended at the curbside. If you need to wait for your passenger, you can use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area is free and provides a convenient place for drivers to wait until their passenger arrives.
If you need to park your vehicle, there are several parking options available at PIA. The airport offers short-term and long-term parking options, as well as a free shuttle service to and from the parking lots. The short-term parking lot is located directly across from the terminal building, while the long-term parking lot is located a short distance away. Both lots are well-lit and offer 24-hour security.
Parking Facilities & Options
PIA Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. The airport has a parking garage located directly across from the terminal building, providing easy access to the airport. Additionally, there are several surface lots available for both short-term and long-term parking.
For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, the airport offers a cell phone waiting area located just outside the terminal building. This area allows drivers to wait in their cars until their passengers are ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located near the terminal building and shuttle stops.
For travelers looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a cost-effective alternative to on-site parking.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: Several car rental companies are located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These companies offer a range of vehicles to suit any need, from economy cars to SUVs. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside of the terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination, so be sure to ask your driver for an estimate before departing. Taxis provide a convenient and straightforward way to reach your destination.
- Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available for pickup at designated areas outside of the terminal. These services offer a more budget-friendly transportation option, but please note that there may be restrictions depending on the city or state. Always check for any limitations regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles provide transportation to and from the airport for both individuals and groups. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal, and fares vary depending on the shuttle service and destination. Booking your shuttle in advance is recommended to ensure availability, especially during busy periods.
- Public Transportation: The Greater Peoria Mass Transit District (CityLink) offers bus service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of the terminal, and fares are affordable. However, please note that bus schedules may be limited on weekends and holidays. It is advisable to check the latest schedule and fare information before planning your trip.
iFly Tip: Ensure your carry-on meets airline standards by consulting our carry-on baggage guide.
Airport Hotels
When traveling, finding a comfortable and convenient hotel near the airport is a priority. Whether you're looking for a historic cottage, a pet-friendly townhome, or a luxury hotel, there are plenty of options to choose from. Each hotel is conveniently located within a short distance from the airport, making your commute less stressful. Moreover, many of these accommodations are also within easy reach of local attractions. From hotels that cater to extended stays with fully-equipped kitchens to those that offer complimentary breakfasts, there's something for every traveler's needs. Some hotels even offer amenities like indoor pools, fitness centers, and in-house restaurants. If you are ready to book now, view all Greater Peoria Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Peoria General Downing Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. For those looking for a quick bite to eat, there is a Dunkin' Donuts located in the main terminal. For a sit-down meal, Avanti's Italian Restaurant is a popular choice, serving up classic Italian dishes. Another recommended restaurant is Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer, which offers a wide selection of craft beers and locally sourced ingredients in their dishes. Both Avanti's and Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer are located near the main terminal.
In addition to dining options, there are also several stores for travelers to browse. The Paradies Shops offer a variety of items, including books, snacks, and travel essentials. There is also a CNBC News store, where travelers can pick up the latest news and magazines. For those looking for a souvenir, there is a Spirit of Peoria gift shop, offering a selection of items related to the city and the riverboat of the same name. The Paradies Shops, CNBC News, and Spirit of Peoria gift shop are all located in the main terminal.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Peoria Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Peoria General Downing 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 building for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Peoria General Downing Airport features a designated children's play 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 building, 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 available on site. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As air travel can be unpredictable, it's always a good idea to keep track of your flight status to avoid any inconvenience. Peoria Airport provides several ways for air travelers to check their flight status.
One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Another convenient way to stay updated on your flight status is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer this service, which allows passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. This way, you can stay informed about any changes to your flight schedule without having to constantly check the airport displays.
Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at PIA 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: Peoria General Downing Airport (PIA) is located in Peoria, Illinois, United States.
- Terminal: The airport has one terminal that serves the central Illinois region.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air. For a list of all airlines, check out the PIA Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Peoria General Downing Airport handles approximately 1,200 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from PIA are Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Charlotte, and Atlanta.
- Hub Status: Peoria General Downing Airport serves as a hub for Allegiant Air.
Airport History
The airport, located in Peoria, Illinois, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1915 - The airport was established as a grass landing strip for local pilots.
- 1929 - The airport was officially named Peoria Municipal Airport.
- 1940 - The airport was renamed General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport in honor of a local pilot who died in World War II.
- 1959 - The airport underwent a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
- 1985 - The airport was renamed Peoria International Airport.
- 1996 - A new terminal building was constructed, featuring modern amenities and improved passenger services.
- 2011 - The airport was renamed General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport to honor the pilot's legacy once again.
- 2015 - The airport celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of events and activities.
- 2018 - The airport announced plans for a major renovation and expansion project, including the construction of a new concourse and additional gates.
Today, Peoria General Downing Airport serves as an important transportation hub for central Illinois, connecting travelers to destinations across the United States and beyond.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Peoria International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: PIA
- Airport Website
- Phone: (309) 697-8272
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Peoria International Airport, 6100 W Everett McKinley Dirksen Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61607, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Peoria General Downing Airport Q&A
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