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Wilmington Airport ILM

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ILM Airport Insights & Guide

Key ILM Airport Topics:

Getting to Know ILM Airport

Discover Wilmington Airport (ILM), where Southern charm enhances your travel. Nestled in coastal North Carolina, ILM is your gateway to picturesque beaches and quaint towns. Our concise guide simplifies your airport experience, covering everything from flight details to amenities, ensuring a seamless journey. Notably, ILM prides itself on its unique art exhibitions, showcasing local talent and culture.

For a broader look at airports, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide for your future travel planning.

iFly Tip: Visit our Flying with Children page for tips on making air travel easier for both parents and kids.

The airport, with the airport code ILM, has two terminals: Concourse A and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 4 gates, while the Main Terminal has 8 gates. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines operate out of the Main Terminal.

When arriving at ILM, passengers can follow the signs to baggage claim and ground transportation, which are located on the lower level of the Main Terminal. For departures, passengers can check in at the ticket counters on the upper level of the Main Terminal. Security checkpoints are located near the entrance to Concourse A and the Main Terminal.

Passengers who have time to spare before their flight can find a variety of food and beverage options in both Concourse A and the Main Terminal. Services such as ATMs, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi are also available throughout the airport.

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

Connecting Between Terminals

At Wilmington Airport, there are two terminals: Concourse A and the Main Terminal. These terminals are connected by a covered walkway, which takes approximately 5-10 minutes to walk. If you have limited mobility or heavy luggage, there is a shuttle bus service available that runs between the terminals. The shuttle bus is free to use and runs every 10-15 minutes.

If you need to transfer between airlines, you may need to take a shuttle bus to the Main Terminal, as Concourse A is primarily used by American Airlines. However, the walkway is still accessible to all passengers and is a convenient option if you have a short layover or want to stretch your legs before your next flight.

Frequent Flier Tips

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

"ILM is relatively small, but it can still be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with it. The terminal is divided into two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Most domestic flights depart from Concourse A, while Concourse B is used for international flights. Make sure to check your boarding pass carefully to know where to go." — John D., Wilmington, NC, July 2023

"If you’re in a hurry, use the shortcut near the baggage claim area to quickly get from Concourse A to Concourse B. It’s a real time-saver, especially during peak hours." — Emily R., Leland, NC, August 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport is just a short drive from downtown Wilmington. I highly recommend using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft for convenience. They have a designated pickup area right outside the terminal, which makes it super easy." — Mark S., Wrightsville Beach, NC, September 2023

"If you prefer public transportation, the WAVE Transit bus service is a cost-effective option. The bus stop is located just outside the terminal, and it takes you directly to downtown Wilmington." — Lisa K., Carolina Beach, NC, October 2023

Parking

"ILM offers both short-term and long-term parking options. For short trips, the short-term lot is very convenient and just a few steps from the terminal. For longer stays, the long-term lot is more economical and only a short shuttle ride away." — David M., Castle Hayne, NC, November 2023

"If you travel frequently, consider enrolling in the airport’s parking rewards program. You can earn points for every dollar spent on parking, which can be redeemed for free parking days." — Rachel T., Hampstead, NC, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"For a quick bite, I recommend the Tailwind Concessions located near the gates. They offer a variety of snacks and beverages, and the service is always friendly." — Michael P., Burgaw, NC, January 2024

"If you have some time to kill, check out the airport’s gift shop. They have a great selection of local products and souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else." — Jessica L., Southport, NC, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can get long, and you don’t want to risk missing your flight." — Tom H., Wilmington, NC, March 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information display screens located throughout the terminal. They provide real-time updates on flight statuses, so you can stay informed about any delays or gate changes." — Karen W., Kure Beach, NC, April 2024

iFly Tip: Ensure a smooth airport experience by following our airport wait times advice.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At the airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of Concourse A in the Main Terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas located near the terminal, where they can wait for their passengers to arrive before proceeding to the curbside for pick-up.

It is important to note that the cell-phone waiting areas are free of charge, and drivers are allowed to wait for up to 30 minutes. This area is equipped with flight information displays, so drivers can keep track of their passenger's flight status. Once the passenger has arrived, the driver can proceed to the curbside for pick-up, and must not park or leave the vehicle unattended. Violators of these rules may be subject to fines or towing.

Parking Facilities & Options

Wilmington Airport offers several parking options for travelers. The airport has both covered and uncovered parking garages located within walking distance of the terminals. The parking garages are divided into two sections: Concourse A and the Main Terminal. The airport also offers a cell phone waiting area for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.

For those looking for more economical parking options, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages. Designated spots are located near the entrances of each terminal for easy access.

Transportation Options

ILM offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you get to your destination:

  • Car Rentals: Several major car rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz, have rental counters conveniently located in the baggage claim area of Wilmington International Airport (ILM). It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available at designated pickup areas outside the terminal. The fare to downtown Wilmington is approximately $25. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.
  • Ride-Share Services: Uber and Lyft services are available for pickup outside the terminal. Be sure to check the app for the latest information on any restrictions or specific pickup locations.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles operate 24/7 and provide door-to-door service to various locations in the city. The pickup area for shuttles is located outside the baggage claim area. The fare for a one-way trip is around $30, and it is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
  • Public Transportation: The Wave Transit System operates several bus routes that connect the airport to various destinations in Wilmington. The bus stop is located outside the terminal, and the fare is $2 per ride. This is a more affordable option for travelers looking to reach their destination on a budget.

iFly Tip: Learn the best practices for flying with toddlers from our flying with toddlers guide.

Airport Hotels

Discover the best accommodations near your travel hub with our comprehensive list of airport hotels. From the chic Wilmington House with a game room and yard, the comfortable Seahawk Haven, to the strategic Studio 6 Wilmington, NC, we've got options to suit every traveler's needs. Enjoy the convenience of being near the airport while also having easy access to popular attractions like the USS North Carolina and the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History and Design Arts. Don't miss out on these fantastic hotel options for your next trip. Check out our ILM Airport Hotels for more information.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Wilmington (ILM) Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to its passengers. For a quick bite, head to Dunkin' Donuts located in Concourse A or Starbucks in the Main Terminal. For a more substantial meal, check out the Coastal Café in Concourse A, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Another great option is the Port City Java in the Main Terminal, which offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.

When it comes to shopping, there are several stores to choose from. In Concourse A, you'll find Hudson News, which offers a variety of snacks, magazines, and travel essentials. In the Main Terminal, check out the PGA Tour Shop for golf enthusiasts or the Coastal Carolina Winery for a unique souvenir. If you're looking for something more practical, there's also a Best Buy Express kiosk in the Main Terminal where you can purchase electronics and accessories.

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

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: ILM Airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout Concourse A and the Main 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, ILM Airport features designated children's play areas in both Concourse A and the Main Terminal.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. Please contact airport staff for assistance.
  • ATM: ATM machines are available in both Concourse A and the Main Terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Clinic: In case of a medical emergency, a medical clinic is located in the Main Terminal. Airport staff are also available to assist with any medical needs.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight when arriving at the airport. Fortunately, there are several ways to check the status of your flight departure.

One of the most common ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays show real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Passengers can easily find the display nearest to their gate and check for any updates.

Another way to stay informed is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines offer their own app, which allows passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes directly to their phone. These alerts can be received through text, email, or push notifications, making it easy to stay informed on the go.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Wilmington 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: Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is located in Wilmington, North Carolina, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features two terminals: Concourse A and the Main Terminal.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the ILM Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Wilmington International handles approximately 3,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 50 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from ILM are Atlanta, Charlotte, Philadelphia, New York, and Washington D.C.
  • Hub Status: ILM is not a hub for any major airline, although American Airlines and Delta Airlines operate the most flights from the airport.

Airport History

The Wilmington Airport, located in Wilmington, North Carolina, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1927: The airport was established as Bluethenthal Field, named after local aviator Arthur Bluethenthal.
  • 1940s: During World War II, the airport was used as a training base for the United States Army Air Forces.
  • 1950s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the addition of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 1960s: The airport became a hub for Piedmont Airlines, which helped to increase passenger traffic and boost the local economy.
  • 1980s: The airport was renamed Wilmington International Airport to reflect its growing importance as a regional transportation hub.
  • 1990s: The airport continued to expand and modernize, with the addition of new parking facilities, a business center, and a new air traffic control tower.
  • 2000s: Hurricane Florence caused significant damage to the airport in 2018, but it was quickly repaired and reopened to the public.

Today, the Wilmington International Airport serves as an important gateway to the southeastern United States, with multiple airlines offering nonstop flights to major destinations across the country.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Wilmington International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: ILM
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 910-341-4333
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Wilmington International Airport, 1740 Airport Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28405, United States

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

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Wilmington Airport Q&A

ILM has two terminals: Concourse A and the Main Terminal.
Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines operate out of the Main Terminal.
The terminals are connected by a covered walkway, which takes approximately 5-10 minutes to walk. A shuttle bus service is also available.
Passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of Concourse A in the Main Terminal. There are also cell-phone waiting areas for drivers.
ILM offers covered and uncovered parking garages, a cell phone waiting area, and off-airport parking with shuttle services.
Options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via the Wave Transit System.
Yes, there are several airport hotels nearby, including Wilmington House, Seahawk Haven, and Studio 6 Wilmington, NC.
Dining options include Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, Coastal Café, and Port City Java. Shopping options include Hudson News, PGA Tour Shop, and Coastal Carolina Winery.
Yes, ILM provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout Concourse A and the Main Terminal.
You can check flight status using in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.