Top 5 Biggest Airports in South Carolina in 2025
South Carolina, is mostly known for its humid summers, mild winters, beautiful white sand beaches, festivals, and the list might go on and on! Making it a desired location for vacation.
Amidst this allure, the state’s airports stand as crucial gateways, not just facilitating travel but also serving as the first impression for many visitors embarking on their South Carolina adventures.
The biggest airports in South Carolina are a vital way between you and your floating holiday, and staying up to date with them is very important. But is it all you need to know about? let’s explore what makes these airports not just transit points, but integral parts of the South Carolina travel experience.
South Carolina has 6 airports that offer regular year-round commercial flights. So let’s take a quick rundown on the top 5 biggest airports in South Carolina in 2025.
Table Of Content
- Charleston International Airport (CHS)
- Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
- Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport
- Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
- Hilton Head Airport
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How many airports are in South Carolina?
- Which is the biggest airport near Charleston, SC?
- How many international airports are in South Carolina?
- Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Charleston?
- What airlines fly out of Charleston, SC airport?
- What airline has the most flights out of Charleston, SC?
- How many airports does Charleston, SC have?
- What is the cheapest month to go to South Carolina?
- It’s A Wrap!
Charleston International Airport (CHS)
When it comes to the largest airport in South Carolina, Charleston International Airport (CHS) takes the crown. Located just 12 miles northwest of historic downtown Charleston, CHS isn’t just the biggest—it’s also the busiest airport in South Carolina, welcoming over 6 million passengers in 2023 alone. So, what makes CHS a top choice for travelers across the Southeast and beyond? Let’s dive into the features that make this airport a standout.
Nonstop Air Services to 180+ Destinations
Charleston International Airport offers nonstop flights to more than 180 destinations worldwide. With major airlines like Delta, American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and Breeze Airways operating at CHS, travelers can enjoy easy access to key cities across the U.S. and international hotspots. Whether you’re flying for business or a beach vacation, Charleston’s connectivity makes it a top pick for travelers looking for direct flights from Charleston.
Getting To and From Charleston Airport Made Easy
Navigating Charleston Airport transportation is seamless. CHS provides a variety of convenient ground transportation options, including:
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On-site airport parking (short-term and long-term)
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Ride-share pickups (Uber & Lyft zones)
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Rental car services from top brands
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Taxi stands and hotel shuttles
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Local Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) bus services
Whether you’re heading to downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, or the Charleston beaches, getting there from CHS is a breeze.
Best Dining at Charleston International Airport
Food lovers are in for a treat at CHS. The airport boasts a delicious mix of local Charleston flavors and national favorites, offering one of the best airport dining experiences in South Carolina:
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Caviar & Bananas – gourmet grab-and-go options
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Charleston Beer Works – local brews and bar bites
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Harvest & Grounds – coffee and fresh pastries
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Chick-fil-A, Burger King, Dunkin’ Donuts, Cinnabon – fast, familiar choices
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Verde & Commonhouse Aleworks – fresh, local eats
Dining at Charleston Airport goes beyond the basics—it’s an extension of the city’s vibrant food scene.
Shopping at CHS: Retail Therapy Before Takeoff
If you enjoy shopping at airports, Charleston International won’t disappoint. CHS features a variety of airport shops offering travel essentials, gifts, snacks, and more:
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Veranda News & Discover Charleston – local souvenirs and magazines
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Tech on the Go – electronics and accessories
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Hudson Stores & Sunglass Hut – travel essentials and designer eyewear
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Flight Ready Market – snacks, drinks, and Charleston specialties
Pro tip: Leave a little extra time to browse—you might get carried away and almost miss your flight!
Premium Lounge: Relax in Style
CHS offers a spacious and serene premium airport lounge with over 4,000 square feet of luxury and seating for 83 guests. Enjoy a calm, quiet space to relax or get work done before boarding. Complimentary Wi-Fi, charging stations, snacks, and beverages make it a great choice for business and leisure travelers alike.
Paws for Takeoff: A Heartwarming Amenity
Charleston International Airport’s unique “Paws for Takeoff” program features certified therapy dogs that roam the terminals to comfort and entertain travelers. These friendly pups are part of CHS’s commitment to creating a welcoming and stress-free environment for all passengers—especially those traveling with anxiety or special needs.
Additional Amenities and Passenger Services
CHS is designed with convenience and comfort in mind. Here’s what else you’ll find at Charleston International Airport:
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Animal relief areas for traveling pets
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Luggage carts for easy mobility
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Nursing suites for traveling parents
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FedEx drop-off boxes
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Cash-to-card kiosks – perfect for digital transactions
Final Thoughts: Why Everyone Loves Charleston International Airport (CHS)
From top-tier amenities and convenient travel options to exceptional customer service, it’s easy to see why Charleston International Airport ranks among the best airports in the Southeast. Whether you’re a local heading out on business or a visitor exploring the charm of Charleston, CHS ensures your journey begins and ends with ease.
CLICK HERE FOR OUR IN-DEPTH ARTICLE ON CHARLESTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
Serving as the main airport near Myrtle Beach, the Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) plays a critical role in supporting South Carolina’s booming tourism industry. With over 3.4 million passengers in 2023, MYR ranks among the busiest airports in South Carolina, thanks to its strategic location and impressive range of affordable nonstop flights.
Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, a golf getaway, or heading home after a sun-soaked retreat, MYR makes it easy, efficient, and enjoyable.
Nonstop Flights to 50+ Destinations
Myrtle Beach Airport offers nonstop flights to more than 50 major destinations across the U.S. and Canada. Airlines like Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and United serve MYR, connecting travelers to hubs such as:
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New York City (JFK, LGA)
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Atlanta (ATL)
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Chicago (ORD, MDW)
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Philadelphia (PHL)
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Boston (BOS)
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Toronto (YYZ) – seasonal
Travelers frequently search for direct flights from Myrtle Beach, and MYR continues to expand its routes based on seasonal demand.
Getting To and From Myrtle Beach Airport
Getting around is simple at MYR. Located just 3 miles from the oceanfront, the airport is extremely accessible via U.S. Highway 17 and South Carolina Highway 707. If you’re looking up how to get to Myrtle Beach Airport, rest assured it offers:
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Short-term, long-term, and economy parking lots
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Handicap-accessible parking spots near terminal entrances
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Rental car services from top providers like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Alamo
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Taxi, Uber, and Lyft rideshare zones
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Hotel and resort shuttles
Traveling to downtown Myrtle Beach, Broadway at the Beach, or even Murrells Inlet is just minutes away.
Handicap Parking and Accessibility
MYR is fully ADA-compliant, offering designated accessible parking, curbside assistance, and wheelchairs on request. Myrtle Beach International Airport is dedicated to providing a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience for passengers with disabilities.
Dining and Shopping at MYR: Something for Everyone
Hungry or need to pass time before your flight? MYR offers a wide range of airport dining and retail options that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick, healthy, or indulgent, you’ll find it here:
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Chick-fil-A – always a favorite
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Aviators Tavern – local bites and brews
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Salt & Tide – coastal cuisine with a twist
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Nacho Hippo Cantina Maxima – Tex-Mex favorites
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Pavilion Bar & Grill – full-service meals and drinks
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Subway & Starbucks – fast and familiar
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Hudson News – snacks, reading material, and souvenirs
Shopping at Myrtle Beach Airport includes everything from last-minute beachwear to electronics and travel essentials.
Lactation Suite for Nursing Mothers
Traveling moms can enjoy privacy and peace in the Mamava lactation suite, conveniently located between Concourse A and B, near the Subway restaurant. Download the Mamava app for quick access and suite availability.
This family-friendly amenity reflects MYR’s commitment to supporting parents traveling with infants.
Pet-Friendly Travel at Myrtle Beach Airport
If you’re searching for pet-friendly airports in South Carolina, MYR stands out. The airport provides:
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Designated pet relief areas
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Pet travel amenities within the terminal
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Airlines that accommodate in-cabin pet travel
Myrtle Beach International Airport understands your furry friends are part of the family—and ensures they’re treated that way.
Other Amenities at Myrtle Beach International Airport
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Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal
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Charging stations and workstations
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Visitor information booths
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Lost and found services
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ATM and vending machines
The airport is small enough to navigate quickly but large enough to provide all the services modern travelers need.
Final Thoughts: Why MYR Is One of the Best Airports in South Carolina
Myrtle Beach International Airport isn’t just convenient—it’s built around the needs of today’s traveler. With low average airfare, growing nonstop flight routes, and a location just minutes from Myrtle Beach’s top attractions, it’s no wonder MYR is a preferred gateway for both locals and tourists alike.
Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport
Located in the heart of the Upstate, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) ranks as the second-largest airport in South Carolina and one of the fastest-growing regional airports in the Southeast. Strategically positioned between Greenville and Spartanburg, GSP spans 385 acres and sits at an elevation of 1,047 feet, offering convenient air access for both leisure and business travelers alike.
With over 2.3 million passengers annually, eight major airlines, and an extensive air cargo operation—particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors—GSP is more than just a passenger airport. It’s a vital economic engine for the Upstate region.
Nonstop Flights to Top Destinations
Every day, GSP operates over 100 daily nonstop flights to 19 popular destinations, connecting travelers to hundreds of cities across the globe via major airline hubs. Airlines serving Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport include:
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American Airlines
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Delta Air Lines
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United Airlines
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Southwest Airlines
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Allegiant Air
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Avelo Airlines
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Silver Airways
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Sun Country Airlines
Common routes include nonstop flights to Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Chicago, New York, Denver, and Orlando—making it easy for travelers to reach both coasts.
Online Parking Reservations: Convenience at Your Fingertips
One of GSP’s standout features is the ability to reserve airport parking online. Whether you’re looking for daily, short-term, long-term, or garage parking, reserving in advance guarantees your spot and can save both time and money. Travelers often search for “GSP airport parking”, and this easy-to-use system ensures a stress-free airport arrival.
Business-Friendly Amenities: Conference Room Access
If you’re flying for work, GSP is fully equipped for productivity. The airport offers a modern conference room outfitted with professional meeting essentials, including:
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Projectors and presentation screens
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High-speed free Wi-Fi
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Audio systems and teleconferencing tools
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Comfortable seating and workspaces
It’s the ideal solution for business travelers in South Carolina needing to host meetings on the go.
Dining at Greenville-Spartanburg Airport: Local Flavors Meet Global Favorites
Searching for restaurants at GSP Airport? The culinary scene here is surprisingly diverse. From southern favorites to nationally loved chains, here’s a taste of what’s available:
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Sweet South Carolina – featuring regional dishes and southern charm
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Thomas Creek Grill – local beers and gourmet burgers
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The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck – upscale dining experience
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Dunkin’ Donuts & Baskin-Robbins – coffee and sweet treats
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Chick-fil-A – consistently a traveler favorite
With these Greenville-Spartanburg Airport food options, your pre-flight dining just got an upgrade.
Shopping at GSP: Gifts, Travel Essentials, and More
Need to grab a last-minute souvenir or travel gear? GSP offers a selection of retail stores that make airport shopping easy and enjoyable:
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Upstate Marketplace – local goods, souvenirs, and snacks
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Hudson Gift Shop – travel essentials, books, and electronics
Shopping at Greenville-Spartanburg Airport is quick, convenient, and perfect for killing time before your flight.
Pet-Friendly Travel at GSP
GSP is proud to be a pet-friendly airport. If you’re traveling with a pet or an emotional support animal, here’s what to know:
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Pets must be in approved carriers inside the terminal
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A pre-security pet relief area is located in front of Garage B
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Pet-friendly airlines and services are available upon request
This makes GSP a top choice for those searching for airports in South Carolina that allow pets.
Family & Nursing Facilities: Comfort for Parents
GSP ensures that traveling families have all the support they need. Amenities include:
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Clean and spacious restrooms on every terminal level
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Family restrooms located near Gates A3 and B4, and the ticketing lobby
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Private nursing rooms featuring:
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Soft ambient lighting
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Sinks and sanitation stations
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Electrical outlets
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Comfortable seating for feeding or pumping
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These features are highly appreciated by parents and are often searched under “GSP nursing room” or “family restrooms at Greenville airport”.
GSP Airlines and Domestic Flight Network
GSP serves a broad domestic network, making it ideal for business and leisure travel. Cities with direct flights from GSP include:
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Chicago (ORD, MDW)
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New York (LGA, EWR)
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Philadelphia (PHL)
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Denver (DEN)
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Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
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Tampa (TPA)
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Orlando (MCO)
Frequent flyers often search for “nonstop flights from Greenville SC”, and GSP consistently delivers.
Why Travelers Love Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
From its modern facilities and business-ready services to its expanding flight network and travel-friendly amenities, GSP is a shining example of a mid-size airport done right. Whether you’re flying for work, vacation, or connecting internationally, GSP Airport in South Carolina ensures your journey is smooth from start to finish.
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
Located in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) spans an impressive 2,600 acres, earning its place as the third-largest airport in South Carolina. Conveniently serving the Columbia metropolitan area and the surrounding Midlands region, CAE offers a blend of modern amenities, southern hospitality, and unique traveler experiences.
Whether you’re flying for business, reconnecting with loved ones, or just exploring, CAE Airport is a relaxing and reliable gateway to your destination.
Airlines and Flight Services at CAE
Columbia Metropolitan Airport is serviced by three major U.S. airlines:
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Delta Air Lines
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American Airlines
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United Airlines
These carriers offer daily nonstop flights from Columbia SC to major hubs such as:
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Charlotte (CLT)
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Atlanta (ATL)
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Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
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Washington D.C. (IAD, DCA)
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Chicago (ORD)
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New York (LGA)
From these connections, passengers can travel to hundreds of domestic and international destinations, making CAE a key regional airport for travelers throughout the Carolinas.
Runway Specifications
Columbia Airport features two primary runways, both capable of handling commercial and cargo flights:
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Runway 11/29 – 8,601 ft × 150 ft (2,622 m × 46 m)
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Runway 5/23 – 8,001 ft × 150 ft (2,439 m × 46 m)
These runways support not only commercial airline traffic but also cargo operations, including those from companies like UPS and FedEx, making CAE a key logistics hub in South Carolina.
Pre-Book Parking at Columbia Airport
Say goodbye to last-minute parking stress. Columbia Metropolitan Airport offers online parking reservations, allowing you to:
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Pre-book a parking spot in advance
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Choose from economy, surface lot, or covered parking
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Get special deals and discounted rates online
Searchers often look for “CAE airport parking reservations”, and the streamlined process makes parking simple and affordable.
Free Wi-Fi Throughout the Terminal
Stay connected from the moment you arrive. Columbia Airport offers free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. No sign-ups, no time limits—just fast, reliable internet access for all passengers, perfect for:
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Video calls
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Last-minute work
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Social media updates
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Streaming music or videos while you wait
This is one of the most searched traveler concerns, and “Wi-Fi at Columbia Airport” is a clear winner here.
Unique Amenity: In-Airport Yoga Studio
One of the standout features of CAE is its on-site yoga studio—a rare find among U.S. regional airports. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a nervous traveler, this peaceful space is perfect for:
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Light stretching and relaxation
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Stress relief before takeoff
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Centering your mind during layovers
Travelers often search for “airports with yoga studios”, and CAE is proud to be one of the few to offer this wellness-focused perk.
Dine, Shop, and Chill at CAE
If you’re wondering what to do at Columbia Airport before a flight, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the options.
Dining options at Columbia Airport include:
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Sky Bar & Café – drinks, full meals, and great runway views
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Runway Food Court – casual bites for quick eats
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Red Eye Express Coffee – locally loved, perfect for your caffeine fix
Shopping at CAE Airport includes:
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The Paradise Shops / PGA Tour Shop – travel essentials, gifts, apparel, and golf merchandise
With these options, early arrivals turn into opportunities to relax, eat well, and even pick up last-minute souvenirs.
Art in the Airport: Showcasing Local Creativity
Launched in 2020, “Art in the Airport” is a program designed to bring beauty and community spirit to the terminal. Featuring rotating exhibits from Midlands-based artists, this initiative helps local creatives gain exposure while offering passengers a unique cultural experience.
Whether you’re just arriving or waiting for a flight, the artwork on display adds a vibrant, thoughtful touch to the travel experience.
Additional Amenities at Columbia Metropolitan Airport
CAE is designed with traveler comfort and convenience in mind. Other key amenities include:
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Family restrooms and nursing rooms with comfortable seating, sinks, and outlets
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Pet relief area for those traveling with animals
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Charging stations located throughout the terminal
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Business-friendly seating areas with desks and power access
These features contribute to Columbia Airport’s growing reputation as a traveler-friendly airport in South Carolina.
Why Fly Through Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)?
With its strategic location, unique amenities, and a commitment to passenger comfort, CAE is more than just an airport—it’s a smooth start (or end) to your journey. Whether you’re flying for business, visiting South Carolina, or connecting through the Southeast, Columbia SC Airport offers everything you need and more.
Hilton Head Airport (HHH)
Nestled on one of the East Coast’s most scenic islands, Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) ranks as the fourth-largest airport in South Carolina. Located directly on Hilton Head Island, this airport offers travelers a stress-free travel experience with beautiful views and unmatched island vibes.
With nearly 400,000 passengers in 2023, HHH continues to grow in popularity as the go-to airport near Hilton Head resorts, beaches, and golf courses. Most travelers passing through are vacationers, and the airport is designed with that in mind—offering comfort, ease, and a laid-back atmosphere from start to finish.
Flights and Airlines at Hilton Head Airport
Hilton Head Island Airport is primarily served by three major airlines, offering nonstop flights to major East Coast cities, including:
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American Airlines
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Delta Air Lines
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United Airlines
You can find direct flights from Hilton Head Airport to hubs like:
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Charlotte (CLT)
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Atlanta (ATL)
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Washington D.C. (DCA)
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Newark (EWR)
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Chicago (ORD)
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Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
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Philadelphia (PHL)
These routes make it easy for travelers across the U.S. to fly directly to Hilton Head Island, avoiding long drives from other regional airports like Savannah (SAV).
Parking at Hilton Head Airport: Affordable & Easy
HHH Airport parking is as convenient and relaxed as the island itself. Here’s what you need to know:
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Free parking for up to 2 hours
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Full-day parking for just $12
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Use the ParkMobile app for contactless payment and advance reservations
Visitors often search for “Hilton Head airport parking rates” and are pleasantly surprised by how affordable and easy it is to find a spot right near the terminal.
Ground Transportation: Simple & Island-Friendly
Whether you’re heading to a nearby resort or exploring Bluffton or Beaufort, HHH offers a variety of Hilton Head ground transportation options, including:
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Rental car companies (within 200 feet of the terminal)
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Taxis and rideshare services
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Fixed-rate taxis to popular island and off-island destinations
Proximity and pricing make it easy to get from Hilton Head Airport to your hotel or Airbnb without hassle.
Free High-Speed Wi-Fi: Stay Connected
Free Wi-Fi at Hilton Head Island Airport is available throughout the terminal, so you can stay in touch with loved ones, stream music, or catch up on emails while you wait.
Dining & Snacks at HHH: Small But Satisfying
While Hilton Head Airport doesn’t host national restaurant chains, it offers snacks, drinks, and light fare through convenient vending machines, perfect for a quick bite before takeoff.
There’s also a relaxing waiting area with large windows, providing peaceful views of the runway and island foliage—a small luxury for those who value serenity in travel.
Why Fly Through Hilton Head Island Airport?
Travelers consistently choose HHH over other South Carolina airports for its:
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Proximity to Hilton Head Island resorts, golf courses, and beaches
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Fast security lines and minimal wait times
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Island charm and stress-free environment
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Easy access to top East Coast cities via nonstop flights
Whether you’re booking a weekend golf trip, a beach escape, or heading home after vacation, HHH provides a low-stress alternative to larger regional airports.
Final Thoughts: Hilton Head Island Airport – Where Your Vacation Begins
From its scenic location to its relaxing atmosphere, Hilton Head Island Airport is more than just a travel hub—it’s part of the vacation itself. With top-notch customer service, efficient operations, and access to some of the most desirable locations in South Carolina, HHH remains a favorite for vacationers flying to Hilton Head Island
Frequently Asked Questions
How many airports are in South Carolina?
There are many airports in South Carolina, of which 7 are the major airports, all act as regional airports. Charleston International Airport (CHS), Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, Myrtle Beach International Airport, Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Florence Regional Airport, Hilton Head Airport, Beaufort County Airport, Anderson, North Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Aiken.
Which is the biggest airport near Charleston, SC?
Charleston (CHS) Airport is the biggest airport near Charleston.
How many international airports are in South Carolina?
There are a total of 4 international airports in South Carolina, Charleston International Airport at Charleston, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport at Greer, and Myrtle Beach International Airport.
Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Charleston?
When flying into Myrtle Beach it is generally cheaper than Charleston, especially during peak travel seasons. MYR is often ranked among the most affordable U.S. beach destinations. However, prices vary by date and departure city, so it is best to compare both airports to find the lowest fare.
What airlines fly out of Charleston, SC airport?
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is served by major airlines including American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, Breeze, Spirit, Allegiant, and Frontier, offering nonstop flights to over 55 domestic and international destinations. Breeze Airways is based at CHS, while Air Canada and BermudAir provide international service to Canada and Bermuda.
What airline has the most flights out of Charleston, SC?
American Airlines operates the most flights out of Charleston International Airport (CHS), carrying roughly 1.15 million passengers in 2024. Delta follows closely with about 1.08 million passengers, while Southwest ranks third .
How many airports does Charleston, SC have?
Charleston, South Carolina has two main public-use airports: Charleston International Airport (CHS), the region’s primary hub for commercial flights, and Charleston Executive Airport (JZI), serving general aviation on Johns Island. The area also includes smaller general aviation fields like Mount Pleasant Regional (LRO) and Summerville Airport (DYB), but CHS is the only airport with scheduled airline service.
What is the cheapest month to go to South Carolina?
The cheapest month to visit South Carolina is typically August and September, when both hotel and flight prices have dropped compared to peak season. Its best to monitor prices prior to these months to know when the prices best suits your budget.
It's A Wrap!
There are many different airports in South Carolina that service both domestic and foreign travelers. Charleston International Airport (CHS) is the largest airport in South Carolina when it comes to passenger volume. It’s the state’s biggest and busiest airport.
We hope you now have all the answers to your inquiries. These five airports rank highest among us when it comes to upscale amenities, ease of access, comfort, and interaction. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, business traveler, or vacationer, our list of the top 5 airports in South Carolina will make flying simple and pleasurable.