Merced Macready Field Airport

MCE Airport Insights & Guide

Tony Hanseder

Updated: August 28, 2024

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• 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

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Merced Municipal Airport (MCE) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MCE-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

"Merced Municipal Airport is small but efficient. When you arrive, you’ll find the check-in counters right at the entrance. Security is just a short walk from there, so make sure to have your ID and boarding pass ready to speed things up." — Carlos M., Merced, CA, August 2023

"If you’re flying out of Merced, you’ll be pleased to know that the terminal layout is straightforward. There’s only one main terminal, so you won’t get lost. Just follow the signs, and you’ll be at your gate in no time." — Emily R., Atwater, CA, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"For a quick and convenient trip to the airport, I recommend using the local taxi services or ride-sharing apps. They are reliable and usually arrive within minutes. Plus, the ride from downtown Merced to the airport takes about 15 minutes." — John D., Merced, CA, September 2023

"If you prefer public transportation, the bus service to the airport is quite efficient. Just check the schedule ahead of time to avoid any long waits." — Maria S., Livingston, CA, October 2023

Parking

"Parking at MCE is very straightforward. The lot is right next to the terminal, so you won’t have to walk far. Just remember to pay for your parking at the kiosk before you leave to avoid any delays." — David H., Merced, CA, November 2023

"For long-term parking, it’s best to arrive a bit early to find a good spot. The lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times." — Lisa P., Winton, CA, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"Although MCE is a smaller airport, it has a cozy waiting area with free Wi-Fi. Grab a coffee from the small café and relax before your flight." — Steven K., Merced, CA, January 2024

"There aren’t many shops inside the airport, so I recommend bringing any essentials with you. However, there is a vending machine area if you need a quick snack." — Rachel T., Planada, CA, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"To avoid stress, arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight. Security lines are usually short, but it’s always good to have extra time just in case." — Michael B., Merced, CA, March 2024

"Check the weather in Merced before you leave for the airport. Fog can sometimes cause delays, especially in the early morning. It’s better to be prepared." — Jessica L., Atwater, CA, April 2024

Getting to Know MCE Airport

Discover Merced Airport, the convenient gateway to Merced, California, known for its unique aviation museum that captivates both aviation enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Our concise guide ensures a smooth journey, offering essential tips from flight tracking to parking and dining. Perfect for both new and frequent flyers, we streamline your airport experience.

Ready for Merced? Dive into our guide for a seamless trip. Explore everything MCE has to offer, from practical travel information to unique airport highlights. For insights into other airports, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide.

Navigating MCE's Terminals

MCE has a single terminal building with two gates. The terminal is used by United Express, which offers daily flights to Los Angeles International Airport. The airport's terminal is small but modern, with a variety of amenities to make your travel experience comfortable and convenient.

Inside the terminal, you will find a small café that serves coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. There are also vending machines available if you need a quick snack or drink. Restrooms are located near the gate area, and there are charging stations available throughout the terminal for your electronic devices.

When you arrive at the airport, you will find the baggage claim area located near the terminal entrance. If you need assistance or have any questions, the airport staff is available to help you.

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

Connecting Between Terminals

MCE Airport is a small regional airport with only one terminal building. Therefore, there is no need to worry about getting between terminals as there is only one. The terminal building is conveniently located near the parking lot and rental car facilities, so passengers can easily access their transportation options upon arrival or departure.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

Merced Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. For those who wish to park and enter the terminal, there are short-term parking options available. However, if you prefer to stay in your vehicle, curbside parking is allowed for up to 30 minutes. It is important to note that parking in the curbside area is strictly enforced, and vehicles left unattended may be towed.

If you are waiting for a passenger to arrive, the airport also offers a convenient cell-phone waiting area. This area is located just outside the terminal and allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up. This option is not only convenient but also helps to alleviate traffic congestion around the terminal.

Parking Facilities & Options

MCE offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are multiple parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminal, making it easy to find a spot to park your vehicle. Additionally, there are cell phone waiting areas available for those who are picking up passengers.

For travelers with disabilities, there are designated handicapped parking spots located in each parking lot and garage. These spots are conveniently located near the terminal for easy access.

If you're looking for an economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers who want to save money on parking fees.

Transportation Options

The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:

• Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis are available at the airport. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore the surrounding area. The car rental counters are typically located in the Arrivals Hall, and it is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
• Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located at the terminal curbside. Fares vary depending on the destination, so it is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the trip. Taxis provide a convenient and quick way to reach your destination.
• Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available at Macready Field. Pickup areas for these services are located at the designated rideshare pickup zone. However, it is important to note that certain restrictions may apply depending on the service provider, including limitations on the number of passengers and amount of luggage.
• Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are a convenient option for those looking to travel to nearby hotels or other destinations. The shuttle service is available at the terminal curbside, and fares may vary depending on the destination. It is advisable to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability.
• Public Transportation: For those looking for a more affordable option, public transportation is available at the airport. The Merced County Transit bus service provides transportation to various destinations in the area, with pickup areas located at the terminal curbside. Fares for the bus service are reasonable and can be purchased on board. The bus service offers a reliable and cost-effective way to reach your destination.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be tiring, and finding the right accommodation near the airport can be a game-changer. We have curated a list of hotels conveniently located near the airport, from affordable motels to luxurious 4-star hotels, there is something for every traveler's needs and budget. Many of these establishments offer free Wi-Fi and parking, and are situated near local attractions, making them ideal bases for exploring the area. Some of these hotels are also pet-friendly, ensuring your furry friends can accompany you on your travels. To find the perfect hotel that suits your needs and preferences, click here to view all Merced Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. For a quick bite, head to Subway, located in the main terminal building. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, try The Hangar Cafe, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options and is located just outside the terminal building. Another great option is the Sky Lounge Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, which offers a more upscale dining experience and is located on the second floor of the terminal building.

When it comes to shopping, there are a few options available at Macready Field. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the Airport Gift Shop, located in the main terminal building. If you're in need of travel essentials like snacks, magazines, or toiletries, head to the Hudson News store, also located in the main terminal building.

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

Passenger Services

• Free Wi-Fi: Merced Macready Field 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, lost and found services are available at the airport's information desk, located in the main terminal.
• Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Merced Macready Field Airport features a designated children's play area equipped with toys and games.
• 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, trained medical professionals are on hand to provide assistance. First aid kits are also available at the information desk.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Merced Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status and stay informed about any changes or delays.

One way to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information.

Another way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. These apps also provide real-time updates on flight status.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at MCE 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: Merced Macready Field Airport (MCE) is located in Merced, California, United States.
• Terminal: The airport features a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
• Airlines Served: The airport is primarily served by Advanced Air. For more information, check out the MCE Airlines Served page.
• Passenger Traffic: Merced Macready Field handles approximately 200 passengers daily.
• Daily Flights: The airport sees around 20 daily flights.
• Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MCE include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
• Hub Status: MCE serves as a hub for Boutique Air, ensuring connectivity to various destinations in the United States.

Airport History

Macready Field, located in Merced County, California, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

• 1917 - The United States Army establishes a training base on the site of what is now Merced Macready Field Airport.
• 1928 - The airport is officially dedicated as Castle Field, named after Brigadier General Frederick Castle.
• 1935 - The airport is renamed Merced Army Airfield.
• 1945 - The airport is decommissioned by the military and transferred to the City of Merced.
• 1950s - The airport undergoes significant renovations and improvements, including the construction of a new terminal building.
• 1980s - The airport experiences a decline in commercial airline service, but remains an important hub for general aviation.
• 1990s - The airport receives a major grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to fund runway and taxiway improvements.
• 2010 - The airport is renamed Merced Airport in honor of aviation pioneer Steve Macready.
• 2018 - The airport completes a major renovation project, including upgrades to the terminal building and parking facilities.

Today, MCE continues to serve the community as an important transportation hub for both commercial and general aviation.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Merced Regional Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

• IATA Code: MCE
• Airport Website
• Phone: +1 209-385-6873
• Email: [email protected]
• Mailing Address: Merced Regional Airport, 20 Macready Drive, Merced, CA 95341, United States

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

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