Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) Guide
Welcome to Rapid City Airport, the gateway to the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. Whether you're here to explore Mount Rushmore, take in the stunning Badlands, or visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, RAP is the perfect starting point for your adventure.
Looking for helpful information to get you from your door to your gate? Look no further than our extensive guide, which includes everything from flight status and tracking to airline departure terminals and gate locations, parking options, terminal maps, and food and shopping directories. Let us help you make your journey through RAP Airport as smooth and stress-free as possible. For more detailed information about other airports, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly's website.
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and boarding. However, during peak travel times such as holidays and weekends, it is advisable to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to avoid long lines and potential delays.
Getting to the Airport
Rapid City Regional Airport is located approximately 10 miles southeast of Rapid City, South Dakota. The best way to get to the airport is by car or taxi. If you are driving, there are several parking options available including short-term and long-term parking. If you prefer to take a taxi, there are several taxi companies that service the airport.
Getting Oriented
When you arrive at Rapid City Airport, you can use the interactive airport maps on iFly.com to get oriented. These maps provide detailed information about the airport's layout, including the location of gates, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. You can also use the maps to find your way to baggage claim, rental car counters, and ground transportation options.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at RAP, it is important to arrive early, especially during peak travel times. You should also make sure you have all necessary travel documents, such as your ID and boarding pass, readily available. Additionally, you can sign up for flight alerts from your airline to stay informed about any changes or delays to your flight.
Security Wait Times
At RAP Airport, the TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the season. During peak travel times, such as holidays, the wait times can be longer than usual. However, the airport staff works hard to keep the wait times as short as possible while still maintaining the highest level of security. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) Terminals
Navigating RAP's Terminals
The airport has one main terminal building with two levels. The terminal has a total of 10 gates, with five gates on the upper level and five gates on the lower level. The upper level is used for departures, while the lower level is used for arrivals.
The main terminal at RAP offers a variety of services and amenities for travelers, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. Some of the dining options include Starbucks, Quiznos, and a full-service restaurant called Landmark Cafe. There are also several gift shops and newsstands where you can purchase souvenirs, magazines, and snacks.
Major airlines that operate out of RAP include Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines. These airlines typically use gates on the upper level of the terminal for departures. However, it's always a good idea to check your airline's website or contact them directly to confirm your gate and terminal information before arriving at the airport.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Rapid City Regional Airport, there is only one terminal, the Main Terminal. Therefore, travelers won't need to worry about getting between terminals.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for dining and shopping options at Rapid City Airport, you won't be disappointed. The airport has a variety of restaurants and stores to choose from, so you can make the most of your time before your flight.
One highly recommended restaurant is Landmark Cafe, located in the Main Terminal. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and offer a variety of options, including gluten-free and vegetarian choices. Another great option is Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries, also located in the Main Terminal. This store offers a unique shopping experience, with Native American art, jewelry, and crafts for sale.
If you're looking for a quick bite, you can check out the airport's coffee shops, including Starbucks and Caribou Coffee. For a sweet treat, try Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, located in the Main Terminal. They offer a variety of chocolates, fudge, and other confections.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at RAP can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, browse the full directory here.
Airport Hotels
Are you planning a trip and looking for a comfortable place to stay near the airport? We have a comprehensive guide that provides an overview of some of the best hotel options, each offering unique amenities and easy access to local attractions. From pet-friendly lodgings to hotels with foosball tables and comfortable townhouses, there is a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Some hotels are located within a few miles of the airport, ideal for those with early morning flights or late-night arrivals. Others are conveniently situated near local attractions, perfect for those looking to explore the area. Discover the perfect hotel for your stay, whether you're looking for a hotel with a hot breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, or a comfortable suite. View all Rapid City Airport Hotels now and find the best option for your needs.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At RAP Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal. However, there are restrictions on how long vehicles can park in these areas. Drivers are not allowed to leave their vehicles unattended, and they must be actively loading or unloading passengers and their luggage. Violators may be subject to fines or towing.
For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport provides a cell-phone waiting area located just a short distance from the Main Terminal. Drivers can park their vehicles in this designated area and wait for a call from their passengers before proceeding to the curbside pickup area. This helps to alleviate congestion and ensures a smooth flow of traffic around the airport.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers various parking options to meet the needs of its passengers. The airport has a parking garage located directly across from the terminal building, providing easy access to the main terminal. The garage offers covered parking, providing protection from the elements. The airport also has a surface parking lot located adjacent to the garage, which is a short walk to the terminal.
For those waiting for arriving passengers, the airport provides a cell phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers arrive and are ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in both the parking garage and surface lot. Designated parking spaces are located near the terminal entrance for easy access to the main terminal.
For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, providing a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
Get details about RAP parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) offers several transportation options for travelers.
Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The car rental counters are located in the baggage claim area, and the rental cars are parked outside the terminal.
Taxi services are also available at RAP, with a designated drop-off area located in front of the terminal. The approximate fare from the airport to downtown Rapid City is $20.
Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are permitted to pick up passengers at RAP. The pickup area for these services is located outside the terminal, near the taxi drop-off area. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed in shared ride vehicles.
Airport shuttles are available for transportation to and from the airport. These shuttles offer door-to-door service and can be reserved in advance. The pickup area for airport shuttles is located outside the baggage claim area. Fares vary depending on the destination and the number of passengers.
Public transportation options are limited in Rapid City, but the Rapid Transit System does offer a bus route that serves the airport. The Route 10 bus stops at the airport every hour and provides service to downtown Rapid City. The fare for this service is $1.25.
Passenger Services
Rapid City Airport provides a range of passenger services to ensure that travelers have a comfortable and stress-free experience.
For those who need to stay connected, the airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building. Passengers can easily connect to the network and stay connected with their friends and family or catch up on work while waiting for their flights.
If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport's lost and found department is located in the main terminal. You can report a lost item or inquire about a lost item by visiting the lost and found office or calling the airport's customer service desk.
Traveling with children can be challenging, but RAP has made it easier with dedicated children's areas. The airport's play areas are designed to keep children entertained and engaged, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their travel experience.
The airport is also committed to providing special-needs services to all passengers. If you require special assistance, such as wheelchair access or special seating arrangements, please contact the airport's customer service desk before your flight.
For those who need to do some banking, there are ATMs located throughout the terminal building. Additionally, there is a currency exchange office located in the main terminal, making it easy for international travelers to exchange their currency.
If you require medical help during your travels, the airport has a first aid station located in the main terminal. Trained medical staff are available to provide assistance if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure, especially if there are any delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Luckily, there are several ways to get flight status information at Metropolitan Oakland Airport.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to check flight status, receive alerts about delays or cancelations, and even change your seat or upgrade your ticket. You can also sign up for text, email, or push notifications to receive updates directly to your phone.
Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Metropolitan Oakland 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
RAP Airport is located in the United States and serves the city of Rapid City and the surrounding Black Hills area. The airport has one main terminal and offers flights to several domestic destinations.
On average, the airport handles around 1,500 passengers daily and operates around 50 flights per day. The top airlines with the most daily flights at RAP are Delta, United, and American Airlines.
RAP offers flights to over 10 destinations, with the top 5 being Denver, Minneapolis, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O'Hare, and Salt Lake City. The airport also serves as a hub for SkyWest Airlines and Delta Connection.
Airport History
The airport, located in Rapid City, South Dakota, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1942 as a military airfield. The airport has since grown to become a vital transportation hub for the region, serving over 500,000 passengers annually.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1942 - Rapid City Regional Airport is established as a military airfield during World War II.
- 1945 - The airport is transferred to civil control and becomes a commercial airport.
- 1950s - The airport undergoes several expansions and improvements, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
- 1960s - The airport experiences a surge in traffic due to the growth of the tourism industry in the Black Hills region.
- 1980s - Rapid City Airport becomes a designated international airport, allowing for international flights to and from the airport.
- 1990s - The airport undergoes a major renovation and expansion project, which includes the construction of a new terminal building, parking garage, and additional runway.
- 2010s - The airport continues to expand and modernize, with the addition of new airlines and destinations, as well as ongoing upgrades to the terminal and facilities.
Airport Contact Info
- RAP Website
- Phone: (605) 393-9924
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: 4550 Terminal Rd # 102, Rapid City, SD 57703, United States