Idaho Airports: Complete Guide to Air Travel in the Gem State

Discover Idaho's 7 commercial airports serving nearly 6 million passengers annually, from Boise's record-breaking hub to Sun Valley's mountain gateway and over 70 backcountry airstrips.

7
Commercial Airports
4.99M
BOI Passengers 2024
27
BOI Nonstop Destinations
119
Public-Use Airports

On This Page

Major Commercial Airports in Idaho

Idaho has seven airports with commercial passenger service, offering connections throughout the United States and beyond. These airports served over 5.6 million passengers in 2024.

Boise Airport (BOI) Top Rated

πŸ“ Boise

Idaho's largest and busiest airport, serving nearly 5 million passengers annually with record-breaking growth for three consecutive years.

  • Passengers 2024: 4,990,885 (record)
  • Airlines: 9 carriers
  • Destinations: 27 nonstop cities
  • TSA PreCheck: Available
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Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) Growing

πŸ“ Idaho Falls

Idaho's second busiest airport experiencing rapid growth, with 73% more passengers than 2019 levels serving eastern Idaho and Yellowstone visitors.

  • Passengers 2024: 610,641
  • Airlines: 5 carriers
  • Destinations: 9 nonstop cities
  • Growth: +11.9% from 2023
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Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) Resort Access

πŸ“ Hailey / Sun Valley

Mountain resort airport serving Sun Valley and Ketchum, located just 20 minutes from world-class skiing and outdoor recreation.

  • Airlines: 4 carriers (United, Delta, American, Alaska)
  • Destinations: 8 nonstop cities
  • Season: Peak winter ski season
  • Longest Flight: Chicago (3h 20m)
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Idaho Airport Passenger Statistics

Airport Code 2024 Passengers Growth vs 2023 Cities Served
Boise Airport BOI 4,990,885 +5.0% 27 nonstop
Idaho Falls Regional IDA 610,641 +11.9% 9 nonstop
Friedman Memorial (Sun Valley) SUN ~279 flights/month Seasonal variance 8 nonstop
Lewiston-Nez Perce County LWS ~61 flights/month Stable 2 nonstop (SLC, SEA)
Magic Valley Regional (Twin Falls) TWF ~33 flights/month Stable 1 nonstop (SLC)
Pocatello Regional PIH ~29 flights/month Stable 1 nonstop (SLC)
Pullman-Moscow Regional PUW N/A - Located in WA

Note: Passenger data from 2024 annual reports. Monthly flight data represents average departures. SLC = Salt Lake City, SEA = Seattle.

Airlines & Routes from Idaho Airports

Boise Airport (BOI) - 27 Nonstop Destinations

πŸ›« Major Carriers

  • Alaska Airlines - Largest carrier (197 weekly departures)
  • Southwest Airlines - Major service provider
  • Delta Air Lines - Connection hub service
  • United Airlines - Cross-country routes
  • American Airlines - Phoenix connections

✈️ Top 3 Routes from BOI

  • Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) - 86 weekly flights (17% of all departures)
  • Denver (DEN) - Multiple daily flights
  • Phoenix (PHX) - Year-round service

Longest Route: Atlanta (ATL) - 1,833 miles, 4h 12m (Delta)

πŸ†• New Routes Added in 2024-2025

  • Bozeman, Montana (BZM) - Alaska Airlines, winter seasonal (Dec-March), 5x weekly near Yellowstone
  • Santa Ana, California (SNA) - Alaska Airlines, year-round daily to Orange County/Disneyland area
  • Orlando, Florida (MCO) - Alaska Airlines, seasonal (Jan-March), 3x weekly to Disney World area

Idaho Falls Regional (IDA) - 9 Nonstop Destinations

5 Airlines Serving IDA: Delta, Alaska, Allegiant, United, American

  • Major Routes: Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles/Orange County, Oakland, Phoenix, Portland, Seattle
  • Recent Additions: Larger Delta mainline aircraft, Alaska added 2nd daily Seattle flight
  • Coming 2025: Year-round Portland service (Allegiant), year-round Denver service starting May 2025

Sun Valley Friedman Memorial (SUN) - 8 Nonstop Destinations

Destinations: San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles, San Diego, Denver, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Phoenix

  • United Airlines: Denver direct
  • Delta Connection (SkyWest): Salt Lake City, Seattle, Los Angeles (seasonal)
  • American Airlines: Phoenix (seasonal, Dec-April)
  • Alaska Airlines: Seattle service

Airport Parking Rates

Boise Airport (BOI) Parking

Parking Lot Hourly Rate Daily Rate Features
Economy Lot (Shuttle) $2/hour $10/day Most economical, shuttle service
Long-Term Surface $2/hour $15/day Outdoor parking, walking distance
Long-Term East Garage $2/hour $17/day Covered parking
Main Garage $2/hour $20/day Covered, closest to terminal
Short-Term $2/hour $25/day Pick-up/drop-off convenience
Valet Parking - $28/day 4am-1am daily, reservations recommended

EV Charging: 8 designated parking spaces with charging stations available (4 on 2nd floor, 4 on 3rd floor, West Garage northeast corner). No additional fees.

Idaho Falls Regional (IDA) Parking

Parking Lot Rate Daily Maximum Notes
All Lots - First 30 Minutes FREE
Hourly Parking Lot $2/hour $15/day Best for brief visits
Daily Parking $2/hour $9/day Good for short trips
Economy Lot 1 - $7/day About 500 feet from terminal
Economy Lot 2 (Remote) - $5/day Most cost-effective, ~5 min walk

Free Shuttle: IDA offers free shuttling between main parking, economy lots, and terminal for those needing assistance (subject to staffing). Call 208-973-1694 to reserve.

TSA PreCheck Enrollment Locations

Boise Area TSA PreCheck Enrollment

  • Boise Staples: 6299 N. Eagle Road, Boise
  • Garden City IDEMIA: 5153 N. Glenwood Street, Garden City
  • Boise Airport CLEAR: 6:00am-5:00pm, right side of security lane

Hours: Vary by location, pre-enrollment online recommended

Idaho Falls TSA PreCheck Enrollment

  • IDEMIA Enrollment Center: 461 May St, Idaho Falls, ID 83401
  • Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00am-12:00pm, 1:00pm-3:30pm
  • Special Events: IDA hosts periodic enrollment events

Tip: Pre-enroll online first to speed up in-person appointment

TSA PreCheck Airport Availability

Airport Code TSA PreCheck Available Terminal
Boise Air Terminal/Gowen Field BOI YES Main Terminal
Idaho Falls Regional IDA YES Main Terminal
Lewiston-Nez Perce County LWS NO Main Terminal
Pocatello Regional PIH NO Main Terminal
Friedman Memorial (Sun Valley) SUN NO Main Terminal
Magic Valley Regional (Twin Falls) TWF NO Main Terminal

More info: tsa.gov/precheck or TSA Enrollment Locator

Idaho Regional & Smaller Commercial Airports

Beyond the major hubs, Idaho operates several regional airports providing essential air service to smaller communities and resort areas.

Location: Lewiston, Idaho (1 mile southwest of city)

Current Service: Delta Connection operates approximately 61 flights per month (14 weekly departures)

  • Destinations: Salt Lake City (SLC), Seattle/Tacoma (SEA)
  • Longest Route: Salt Lake City - 460 miles, 1h 35m
  • Performance: 2nd-best on-time performance among all U.S. airports
  • Advantage: Low elevation and dry microclimate keeps flights on schedule even when regional airports are grounded by fog

Historical Note: Previously served by Horizon Air (1983-2018) and SkyWest (1996-present as Delta Connection)

Location: Twin Falls, Idaho (4 nautical miles south of city)

Current Service: Delta operates 1 daily flight Sunday-Friday, 1 flight Saturday (approximately 33 monthly flights)

  • Only Destination: Salt Lake City (SLC) - 174 miles, 1h 2m flight time
  • Airport Size: 1,468 acres at 4,154 feet elevation
  • Runways: Two asphalt runways (8/26: 8,703' x 150', 12/30: 3,224' x 75')
  • Use: Mostly general aviation with one commercial airline

Sun Valley Connection: Historically served as the "jet gateway" for Sun Valley resort area before SUN received jet service

Location: Pocatello, Idaho (serving Pocatello, Chubbuck, and southeast Idaho region)

Current Service: Delta Connection operates approximately 29 flights per month (7 weekly departures)

  • Only Destination: Salt Lake City (SLC) - 149 miles, 59 minutes
  • Flight Schedule: 2 daily jet flights to/from SLC
  • Connections: Over 325 Delta destinations worldwide via SLC hub

Historical Airlines:

  • Western Air Lines operated Lockheed L-188 Electra turboprops (1960s), later Boeing 737-200 jets with nonstop service to SLC, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles (1973)
  • Horizon Air served 1983-2006 (SLC, then Boise routes)
  • Big Sky Airlines operated 2006-2007
  • SkyWest continues as Delta Connection since Western merger with Delta in 1987

Location: Pullman, Washington (4 miles from Moscow, Idaho)

Service Area: Serves Moscow, Idaho and Pullman, Washington (home to University of Idaho and Washington State University)

  • Status: Commercial service - primary airport
  • Note: Located in Washington State but serves as primary air gateway for Moscow, Idaho
  • Airport Type: Publicly owned with scheduled passenger service, more than 10,000 annual passenger boardings

Fun Fact: One of seven commercial service airports designated for Idaho despite being located across state line

Location: Coeur d'Alene, North Idaho

Current Status: General aviation airport (no commercial passenger service)

  • Primary Commercial Access: Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 20 minutes west
  • Spokane Airport Service: Serves 30-county Inland Northwest region including North Idaho
  • Use: Private aircraft, general aviation, business aviation

Getting to Spokane (GEG) from Idaho: Take I-90 WEST, exit 277/US-2 WEST, merge onto US-2, take SPOKANE AIRPORT exit. Alaska Airlines flies GEG to Boise (BOI) 4 times daily.

Ground Transportation & Shuttle Services

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) Transportation

Services Available: Transit, airport shuttle, taxi, limo, car service, charter bus

  • Yellowstone Transportation: Private shuttle service to Pocatello, Chubbuck, Sun Valley, Jackson Hole, and Salt Lake City Airport
  • Salt Lake Express: Regional shuttle service
  • Idaho Falls Coach Bus: Groups of any size, corporate teams, school groups, sports clubs, families. Modern vehicles with WiFi, power outlets, reclining seats
  • Taxi Services: If Taxi, Dad's Taxi & Delivery, Easy-Way Taxi, Whitney's Taxi
  • A-1 Custom Limousine Service

Note: Ground transportation providers are independent third-party companies not affiliated with the airport.

Boise Airport (BOI) Transportation

Popular Services:

  • American Eagle Shuttle: 24/7 private shuttle with real-time flight tracking. Service areas: Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Middleton, Nampa, Kuna
  • Sun Valley Express: Daily shuttles to/from Sun Valley with stops at Sun Valley Lodge, St. Luke's Hospital (Ketchum), Hailey Post Office, Bellevue Atkinson's Market
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many local hotels provide shuttle transportation (reservations may be required)
  • Ride-Share: Uber, Lyft available
  • Rental Cars: 7-story rental car center opening 2026

Airport Expansion: New 7-story rental car center expected 2026, new concourse with up to 10 gates starting construction 2027

Idaho Backcountry Airstrips - General Aviation

Idaho is renowned worldwide as one of the premier destinations for backcountry flying, with over 70 backcountry airstrips offering unparalleled wilderness access and adventure flying opportunities.

πŸ“Š By the Numbers

  • 119 Public-Use Airports statewide
  • 70+ Backcountry Airstrips
  • 118 Private Airports
  • 52 Heliports
  • 4 Seaplane Bases
  • 1 Gliderport, 1 Ultralight

πŸ”οΈ Featured Backcountry Strips

  • Johnson Creek (3U2) - The "Cadillac" of Idaho backcountry, 3,400' x 150' manicured turf, handles everything from Cubs to twins
  • Big Creek (U60) - Remote wilderness access with AED station
  • Cavanaugh Bay (66S) - Seaplane access with AED
  • Smiley Creek (U87) - Stanley area with AED
  • Star Valley Ranch - Most remote recreational-use airstrip in contiguous U.S., 1,250' at 4,740' elevation
  • Cougar Ranch (D47) - 1,400' long at 4,270' elevation

⚠️ Safety & Resources

Important Considerations:

  • Most mountain airports are substandard in length and width
  • High density altitude considerations
  • Best flying: Early morning (before 10am)
  • Avoid: 10am-4pm when air deteriorates
  • Wind limits: Stay out if over 25 knots

Resources: Idaho Aeronautical Chart, "Fly Idaho!" Third Edition (2 volumes, 83 airstrips), Adventure Flying Idaho Backcountry Map

Idaho is a paradise for pilots seeking wilderness adventure, offering everything from well-maintained strips like Johnson Creek to remote, challenging approaches at high elevations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho Airports

Boise Airport (BOI) is Idaho's largest and busiest airport, serving 4,990,885 passengers in 2024 - a new record for the third consecutive year. The airport handles more passengers than all other Idaho airports combined (roughly 10 times as many as the next busiest airport, Idaho Falls). BOI offers service from 9 airlines to 27 nonstop destinations, with Alaska Airlines being the largest carrier operating approximately 197 scheduled departures every week.

The airport has experienced 81% passenger growth from 2014 to 2024 and is undergoing a multiyear terminal expansion including a 7-story rental car center (opening 2026) and a new concourse with up to 10 gates (construction starting 2027).

Idaho has 7 commercial service airports designated for passenger service, though one (Pullman-Moscow Regional) is technically located in Washington State but serves Moscow, Idaho. The seven commercial airports are:

  • Boise Air Terminal (BOI) - Largest, nearly 5 million passengers annually
  • Idaho Falls Regional (IDA) - Second busiest, 610,641 passengers in 2024
  • Friedman Memorial (SUN) - Sun Valley/Hailey resort airport
  • Lewiston-Nez Perce County (LWS) - Northern Idaho, excellent on-time performance
  • Joslin Field-Magic Valley Regional (TWF) - Twin Falls
  • Pocatello Regional (PIH) - Southeast Idaho
  • Pullman-Moscow Regional (PUW) - Located in WA, serves Moscow, ID

All commercial service airports are classified as "primary" airports, meaning they are publicly owned and receive more than 10,000 passenger boardings (enplanements) each year. Idaho has 119 public-use airports total, including general aviation facilities.

Currently, there are no direct international flights departing from any Idaho airports. All Idaho commercial airports serve domestic U.S. destinations only.

To reach international destinations from Idaho, travelers need:

  • One-stop connections through major hubs like Seattle (SEA), Denver (DEN), Salt Lake City (SLC), Phoenix (PHX), San Francisco (SFO), or Los Angeles (LAX)
  • Boise Airport offers easy one-stop connections to over 350 cities worldwide through its 27 nonstop domestic destinations
  • Popular international connection hubs from Boise include Seattle for Asia-Pacific routes, San Francisco for international connections, and Denver for worldwide service

While Boise Airport is technically designated as having international capability (with customs facilities for charter and private international flights), no scheduled commercial airlines currently operate regular international passenger service from Idaho.

Boise Airport (BOI) is served by 9 major airlines offering service to 27 nonstop destinations:

  • Alaska Airlines - Largest carrier with 197 weekly departures; focus city with service operated by Horizon Air and SkyWest. New 2024-2025 routes to Bozeman (Dec-March), Santa Ana (year-round), and Orlando (Jan-March)
  • Southwest Airlines - Major service provider with frequent flights
  • Delta Air Lines - Operates longest route to Atlanta (1,833 miles, 4h 12m)
  • United Airlines - Cross-country routes and connections
  • American Airlines - Phoenix and other hub connections
  • Avelo Airlines - Low-cost carrier with California connections
  • Plus additional carriers for seasonal and regional service

Top 3 Routes: Seattle/Tacoma (86 weekly flights, 17% of all departures), Denver, and Phoenix.

The airport's strong growth has attracted increased airline competition and new routes, with passenger numbers increasing 5% annually in recent years.

Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey is the closest and most convenient airport to Sun Valley, located just 20 minutes (approximately 12 miles) south of Sun Valley and Ketchum resort areas.

Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) Details:

  • Airlines: 4 carriers - United, Delta, American, Alaska
  • Destinations: 8 nonstop cities including San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles, San Diego, Denver, Salt Lake City, Chicago, and Phoenix
  • Seasonality: Peak service during winter ski season (December-April)
  • Flight Volume: Approximately 279 departures per month in peak season

Alternative Airport Options:

  • Boise Airport (BOI) - 150 miles, 2.5-hour drive with shuttle service available via Sun Valley Express
  • Twin Falls (TWF) - 82 miles south on Highway 75, historically served as Sun Valley's "jet gateway" before SUN had jet service
  • Idaho Falls (IDA) - 103.8 miles northeast

For the most direct access to Sun Valley's world-class skiing and recreation, Friedman Memorial remains the best choice despite higher seasonal airfares compared to flying into Boise and taking ground transportation.

Yes, Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) offers direct flights to 9 major cities and is experiencing rapid growth as Idaho's second busiest airport.

Current Direct Routes from IDA (2024-2025):

  • Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) - American Airlines
  • Denver (DEN) - United; year-round service beginning May 2025 (Allegiant)
  • Las Vegas (LAS) - Allegiant
  • Los Angeles/Orange County (SNA) - Delta
  • Oakland (OAK) - Southwest
  • Phoenix (PHX) - American
  • Portland (PDX) - Alaska; year-round service (Allegiant)
  • Salt Lake City (SLC) - Delta Connection (multiple daily)
  • Seattle (SEA) - Alaska (2 daily flights as of 2024)

Growth Statistics: IDA served 610,641 passengers in 2024, representing 11.9% growth over 2023 and an impressive 73.2% increase compared to 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

Recent Improvements: Delta added larger mainline aircraft to meet demand, Alaska added a second daily Seattle flight, and service expansion to Chicago and Portland is expected in 2026, positioning IDA for continued record-breaking growth.

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is the best Idaho airport for accessing Yellowstone National Park, located just 110 miles from Yellowstone's West Entrance.

Why Idaho Falls for Yellowstone:

  • Proximity: 110 miles to Yellowstone West Entrance (approximately 2 hours driving)
  • Gateway Position: Strategic location in East Idaho near Yellowstone and Grand Teton
  • Growing Service: 9 nonstop destinations with 5 airlines serving 610,641 passengers in 2024
  • Ground Transportation: Yellowstone Transportation offers private shuttle service directly from IDA to Yellowstone area

Alternative Airport Options:

  • Bozeman, Montana (BZM) - North entrance access; new seasonal route from Boise (Dec-March) via Alaska Airlines, 5x weekly
  • Jackson Hole, Wyoming (JAC) - South entrance via Grand Teton; private shuttle available from Idaho Falls
  • West Yellowstone, Montana (WYS) - Closest airport to West Entrance but limited commercial service (seasonal only)

Best Strategy: Fly into Idaho Falls year-round for reliable commercial service, or use Boise Airport's new seasonal Bozeman connection (winter only) combined with ground transportation for maximum flexibility.

Idaho Falls provides the most consistent commercial airline access to Yellowstone from Idaho with excellent rental car options and shuttle services available at the airport.

Parking rates vary by airport and lot type. Here are the most economical options at Idaho's two busiest airports:

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) - Most Affordable:

  • All Lots: First 30 minutes FREE
  • Economy Lot 2 (Remote): $5/day (most cost-effective, ~5 minute walk)
  • Economy Lot 1: $7/day (~500 feet from terminal)
  • Daily Parking: $2/hour, $9/day max
  • Hourly Lot: $2/hour, $15/day max
  • Free Shuttle: Available between lots and terminal for those needing assistance (call 208-973-1694)

Boise Airport (BOI) - Options by Need:

  • Economy Lot (Shuttle): $10/day (most economical, shuttle service)
  • Long-Term Surface: $15/day (outdoor, walking distance)
  • Long-Term East Garage: $17/day (covered)
  • Main Garage: $20/day (covered, closest to terminal)
  • Short-Term: $25/day (pick-up/drop-off convenience)
  • Valet Parking: $28/day (4am-1am daily, reservations recommended)
  • All Lots: $2/hour standard rate
  • EV Charging: 8 designated spaces with charging stations, no additional fees (West Garage)

Money-Saving Tips: At IDA, use Economy Lot 2 for $5/day with free 30-minute initial parking. At BOI, use the Economy Lot with shuttle for $10/day. For trips over 5 days, compare airport parking with off-site parking facilities that may offer promotional rates.

Yes! Idaho is a world-renowned paradise for backcountry flying, featuring over 70 backcountry airstrips that attract pilots from around the globe. However, backcountry flying requires specialized training, experience, and proper preparation.

Notable Backcountry Airstrips:

  • Johnson Creek (3U2) - The "Cadillac" of Idaho backcountry strips with 3,400' x 150' perfectly manicured turf runway that can handle aircraft from Super Cubs to Bonanzas and even twins
  • Star Valley Ranch - Most remote dedicated recreational-use airstrip in contiguous U.S. (1,250' runway at 4,740' elevation)
  • Big Creek (U60) - Remote wilderness access, equipped with AED station
  • Cavanaugh Bay (66S) - Seaplane capable with safety equipment

Safety Requirements & Considerations:

  • Training Required: Mountain and backcountry flying courses strongly recommended
  • Aircraft Suitability: Most airports are substandard in length/width with high density altitude
  • Best Flying Times: Early morning before 10am when air is stable
  • Avoid Flying: 10am-4pm when conditions deteriorate; winds over 25 knots
  • Resources Needed: Idaho Aeronautical Chart, "Fly Idaho!" guide (2 volumes covering 83 airstrips), Adventure Flying Idaho Backcountry Map

Support Organizations: Idaho Aviation Foundation (1,500+ members) and Idaho Aviation Association work to maintain, upgrade, and preserve these irreplaceable aviation resources.

Recent Safety Improvements: Through the Backcountry Aviation Defibrillator Project, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) have been deployed at four remote strips using Daher Kodiak 100 aircraft, improving emergency medical response capabilities.

Spokane International Airport (GEG) in Washington State is the primary commercial airport serving northern Idaho, including Coeur d'Alene, providing the most flight options and competitive pricing.

Spokane International Airport (GEG):

  • Location: Just 20 minutes west of Coeur d'Alene via I-90
  • Service Area: 30-county Inland Northwest region including eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and western Montana
  • Size: Second busiest airport in Washington State
  • Airlines: Alaska, Delta, Southwest, United with 24 gates across 3 concourses
  • Facilities: 2 runways, modern passenger terminal

Driving Directions from Idaho: Take I-90 WEST, exit 277/US-2 WEST, merge onto US-2, take SPOKANE AIRPORT exit, keep LEFT at fork, follow AIRPORT DRIVE to terminal.

Idaho Connection: Alaska Airlines operates 4 daily flights from Spokane (GEG) to Boise (BOI) for easy intra-state connections.

Alternative: Lewiston-Nez Perce County (LWS):

  • Located in north-central Idaho for eastern Panhandle access
  • Delta service to Seattle (SEA) and Salt Lake City (SLC)
  • Excellent 2nd-best on-time performance among all U.S. airports
  • Limited to 2 destinations but very reliable

Best Choice: For Coeur d'Alene, Sandpoint, and the Idaho Panhandle, Spokane International offers the most destinations, frequencies, and competitive fares despite being located in Washington. For travelers preferring to fly into Idaho itself, Lewiston provides reliable service with exceptional on-time performance to major hubs.

Last updated on November 29, 2025