Bentonville Airport (XNA) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Northwest Arkansas National Airport quick facts

Northwest Arkansas National Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Northwest Arkansas National Airport features a single, streamlined terminal building that makes navigation refreshingly simple compared to sprawling major hubs. The terminal is arranged over two main levels, with arrivals and baggage claim on the lower level and a centralized security checkpoint leading to all gates on the upper level. Because the airport uses one main terminal, you never need to worry about catching a train or shuttle between disconnected buildings.

The terminal design follows a straightforward linear-to-pier concept. After clearing security on the upper level, you enter a bright, open rotunda with clear signage pointing toward Concourse A to the right and Concourse B to the left. A smaller ground-level wing, Concourse C, branches off near the baggage claim area and is accessible to passengers arriving on or departing from certain regional flights. Walking from the furthest gate in Concourse A to the furthest gate in Concourse B takes approximately 7 to 10 minutes at a comfortable pace. There is no need for moving walkways, though the terminal is fully accessible with elevators and ramps connecting the two floors.

Navigating Northwest Arkansas National Airport Terminals

Concourse A (Upper Level)
Concourse A hosts gates A1 through A12. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines typically operate from this concourse. The wing features high ceilings and large windows that overlook the runway and ramp area, filling the seating areas with natural light. A small business center with charging stations sits near gate A5. Dining options here include a full-service restaurant serving local craft beers, as well as a grab-and-go market for quick snacks before boarding.

Concourse B (Upper Level)
Concourse B houses gates B1 through B8. Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines generally use these gates. This concourse has a more open waiting area designed to accommodate the boarding procedures Allegiant uses. Near gate B3, you will find a children's play area and additional restroom facilities. A coffee shop and a newsstand are centrally located so you can pick up reading material for your flight.

Concourse C (Lower Level)
Concourse C is a smaller ground-loading area with gates C1 through C5. These gates are accessed from the lower level near baggage claim, generally used for overflow or specific regional operations. If your flight departs from Concourse C, you will walk out onto the tarmac to board the aircraft via airstairs. Seating in this area is more basic, but restrooms and vending machines are available.

Transportation to and from Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Getting to and from Northwest Arkansas National Airport is straightforward, with the terminal located just off Arkansas Highway 264, about 15 miles northwest of downtown Bentonville. The drive takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes via I-49, depending on traffic. Since the airport serves the entire Northwest Arkansas region, including Fayetteville, Springdale, and Rogers, road access is excellent, and traffic congestion around the airport is rarely a significant issue compared to airports in larger metro areas.

Getting to and from Northwest Arkansas National Airport by Car

The most common way to reach the airport is by private car. Highway access is direct, and the entrance road brings you straight to the terminal curb. The airport operates a cell phone waiting lot just off the main entrance road where drivers can wait for arriving passengers at no cost until they receive a call or text that their party is ready at the curb.

Parking rates at Northwest Arkansas National Airport:

• Short-Term Parking: Located directly across from the terminal entrance. Optimal for stays under 3 hours. Rate is approximately $2 per hour, with a daily maximum of around $14.
• Long-Term Parking: A covered garage attached to the terminal via a covered walkway. Rate is approximately $12 per day.
• Economy Lot: An uncovered lot a few minutes' walk from the terminal. Rate is approximately $9 per day.
• Premium Reserved Lot: Closest covered spots to the terminal entrance. Rate is approximately $16 per day and can be booked online in advance.

Several private parking operators near the airport on Airport Boulevard offer valet services, covered parking, and car washes. Booking parking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel periods around holidays and major Bentonville events like the annual Bike Fest. Curbside drop-off allows unloading for up to 3 minutes before security asks drivers to circle around; vehicles cannot be left unattended at the curb.

Getting to and from Northwest Arkansas National Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate actively throughout Northwest Arkansas and are authorized to serve the airport. The designated pickup area is located on the lower-level curb outside the baggage claim doors. After disembarking, follow the signs for Ground Transportation and look for the clearly marked Ride App Pickup Zone. When requesting a ride, the app will pin your location correctly if you select the airport, and you can walk out to the numbered pillars to meet your driver.

• Uber: Available with typical options like UberX and UberXL.
• Lyft: Standard, Plus, and Lyft XL options available.
• Taxi Service: Local cab companies include NWA Airport Taxi and Pinnacle Car Services. Taxis queue outside the baggage claim area on the lower level.

Estimated fares to downtown Bentonville range from $35 to $45. A ride to Fayetteville or the University of Arkansas campus typically costs between $45 and $55. Payment by credit card is standard in rideshare apps, while taxis generally accept both cash and cards.

Getting to and from Northwest Arkansas National Airport by Public Transportation

Ozark Regional Transit provides bus service connecting the airport to the surrounding communities, though routes are limited and generally more oriented toward commuters. Route 62 serves the airport with a connection to Rogers and Bentonville. However, travelers relying on public transit should note that frequency is low and the trip to downtown Bentonville requires a transfer at the Rogers hub. For most visitors, car rental or rideshare remains the most practical ground transportation option.

Key Amenities at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

ATMs

A Regions Bank ATM is located on the lower level near the baggage claim carousels. A second ATM is situated on the upper level rotunda before the security checkpoint, ensuring you can get cash before or after your flight.

Lost and Found

Lost and Found services at Northwest Arkansas National Airport are managed by the Airport Administration office. If you lose an item in the terminal, at security, or on an aircraft, you should contact the Airport Authority directly at (479) 205-1000. The office is located on the second floor of the terminal building near the administrative wing.

Luggage Services

Luggage carts are available for rent at the entrance to the lower-level baggage claim area and cost $5 per use, payable by credit card. The airport does not currently offer luggage storage or luggage wrapping services, so plan accordingly if you have a long layover.

Pets

Northwest Arkansas National Airport provides designated pet relief areas both pre- and post-security. An outdoor pet relief area with grass and waste bags is located just outside the lower-level arrivals doors. An indoor relief station with artificial turf is on the upper level near gate A2 for passengers who have cleared security. Pets must remain in their carriers at all times when not in the relief area, and service animals are welcome throughout the terminal.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not available in the main terminal area. The Escape Lounge does not offer shower suites. Travelers needing to freshen up will find the restrooms clean and well-maintained but without shower amenities.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are not available at Northwest Arkansas National Airport. As a primarily domestic airport, international arrival facilities are limited. Travelers arriving from international destinations typically connect through larger hubs and should handle currency exchange before arriving.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal. A designated smoking area with benches and ash receptacles is located outside the lower-level terminal exit, well away from the main doors.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal features a modern design with local Arkansas limestone and warm wood accents that reflect the natural beauty of the Ozarks. High ceilings and large glass curtain walls create an open, airy feel. Seating throughout is comfortable with integrated USB and AC power outlets at most gate areas. A tranquil courtyard garden sits on the upper level post-security near the entrance to Concourse A, offering a quiet spot to relax before your flight.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available throughout the entire terminal building. To connect, select the "XNA Free WiFi" network and accept the terms of service. No password is required. Speed is sufficient for browsing, email, and streaming. Charging stations are located at every gate seating area and at tall counter-height tables in the rotunda.

Other Amenities

• Information Desk: Staffed by Northwest Arkansas Tourism volunteers, located in the baggage claim area. Open daily during peak arrival times to provide maps, attraction brochures, and local recommendations.
• Medical Services: Automated external defibrillators are located throughout the terminal. For medical emergencies, airport police and EMS respond directly.
• Chapel/Prayer Room: A quiet meditation room is located on the upper level airside, near the entrance to Concourse B. The room is non-denominational and offers a peaceful space for reflection.

Airport Lounges at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Lounge options at Northwest Arkansas National Airport are limited to one main shared-use lounge, which is a welcome retreat given the manageable size of the terminal. While you will not find massive airline-branded flagship lounges here, the single Escape Lounge offers a comfortable place to wait before departure.

Airline Lounges at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Escape Lounge
Located airside, directly opposite the TSA security checkpoint and adjacent to the entrance walkway for Gates A1–A12. This lounge features a contemporary design with local art, complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages (please note, alcoholic drinks are not served in this lounge), high-speed WiFi, and plenty of power outlets. It provides a quiet atmosphere ideal for working or relaxing before your flight. Access is available to travelers flying on any airline by purchasing a day pass for $46 USD. American Express Platinum cardholders and holders of certain other premium cards may also receive complimentary access. Escape Lounge is also part of the Priority Pass network.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

The Escape Lounge is the only lounge accessible via credit card programs such as American Express. There is no standalone Centurion Lounge at Northwest Arkansas National Airport.

Priority Pass Lounges at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Priority Pass members can access the Escape Lounge. However, due to capacity constraints, entry may be restricted during peak hours when the lounge is at capacity. Lounge access operates on a three-hour pass basis. Members should note that some card issuers, particularly Capital One and AmEx, have varying policies regarding guest access, so verify your specific benefits before visiting.

Other Airports in the Region

Bentonville Municipal Airport / Louise M. Thaden Field (VBT)
Distance to city center: Approximately 3 miles south. This general aviation airport is best for private pilots and charter flights. It features a beautiful modern terminal with a farm-to-table restaurant, Louise, overlooking the runway. Not suitable for commercial airline travelers but worth visiting for the aviation-themed dining and views.

Springdale Municipal Airport (ASG)
Distance to Bentonville: Approximately 18 miles south. Another general aviation field serving the region. Best for private aircraft arrivals, with easy access to Fayetteville and Springdale businesses.

Rogers Municipal Airport / Carter Field (ROG)
Distance to Bentonville: Approximately 15 miles east. A general aviation airport convenient to Rogers and Beaver Lake. No commercial service.

Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
Distance to Bentonville: Approximately 115 miles west, about a 1 hour 45-minute drive. Tulsa is the closest alternative for commercial flights and offers a wider array of airlines and direct destinations. Recommended for travelers who find Northwest Arkansas National Airport fares high or schedules limited, though the drive time should be factored into your trip plans.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport Overview

Northwest Arkansas National Airport opened in November 1998, replacing the smaller Drake Field in Fayetteville as the region's primary commercial aviation gateway. The airport was built to serve the rapidly growing Northwest Arkansas corridor, driven by the presence of Walmart's global headquarters in Bentonville, Tyson Foods in Springdale, and the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. The official full name is Northwest Arkansas National Airport, and it is publicly owned by the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport Authority.

The airport sits approximately 15 miles northwest of downtown Bentonville in the community of Highfill, Arkansas. Its location was strategically chosen to be roughly equidistant from the major population centers of Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, and Fayetteville. The elevation is 1,288 feet above sea level. Northwest Arkansas National Airport handles approximately 1.2 million passengers annually through its single terminal building, which features three concourses. It is a civilian public-use airport with no military base attached.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport Postal Code

• Full Postal Code: 72712
• City: Bentonville
• State: Arkansas
• Country: United States
• Complete Mailing Address: Northwest Arkansas National Airport, 1 Airport Blvd, Bentonville, AR 72712

Duty Free and Shopping at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Duty-free shopping is not available at Northwest Arkansas National Airport because it primarily handles domestic flights with very limited international service. However, the terminal has a handful of retail shops where you can pick up regional souvenirs, travel essentials, and gifts. The main newsstand and gift shop, located in the upper-level rotunda, stocks locally-made items including Arkansas honey, Ozarks-themed T-shirts, and Razorback memorabilia from the University of Arkansas.

For authentic local crafts and a wider selection of Bentonville souvenirs, downtown Bentonville's Square district, just a 20-minute drive from the airport, offers far more variety. The Walmart Museum and surrounding boutiques sell unique Arkansas-made goods. Dining at the airport includes a pre-security café on the lower level and the full-service Sky Bistro on the upper concourse, which serves a menu featuring Arkansas-sourced ingredients alongside local craft beers. Quick-service options include a coffee bar and a snack stand near Concourse B.

Here is a sample of what travelers frequently purchase at the airport gift store:

Security Wait Times at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

One of the primary advantages of Northwest Arkansas National Airport is the short and efficient security screening process. Because only a single TSA checkpoint serves the entire terminal, lines are rarely overwhelming. On a typical Tuesday or Wednesday morning, wait times range from 5 to 15 minutes. Peak periods do see longer queues, particularly during the early morning hours of 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM when the first wave of business travelers departs. Holiday weekends like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and major event dates such as the annual Walmart Shareholders' Meeting week in early June, can see wait times stretch to 30-45 minutes.

The airport features TSA PreCheck enrollment and dedicated PreCheck lanes. CLEAR is not currently available at Northwest Arkansas National Airport. Standard security rules apply: liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a single quart-size bag, electronics larger than a cell phone must be removed from carry-on bags, and all travelers must present valid government-issued photo identification.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Departures Drop-Off: The upper-level roadway outside the main terminal entrance serves as the departures drop-off zone. Active unloading is permitted, but vehicles cannot be left unattended. Curbside time is limited to 3 minutes before security requires cars to move. Skycap service is not consistently available, so be prepared to handle your own bags.

Arrivals Pick-Up: The lower-level curb outside baggage claim is the designated arrivals pick-up zone. You may stop and load passengers and luggage here, but waiting is not allowed. If your party is not yet at the curb, you must circle the terminal or use the cell phone lot.

Cell Phone Lot: A free cell phone waiting lot sits on the airport entrance road, clearly marked and approximately a 1-minute drive from the terminal. Drivers wait in their vehicles until receiving a call or text that arriving passengers are curbside with their bags. There are no restrooms or amenities at the cell phone lot.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Northwest Arkansas National Airport offers nonstop flights to many of the country's major business and leisure hubs. The airport is not a hub for any single airline, but its service is heavily shaped by the corporate travel demands of the region. As of the latest schedules, the primary airlines operating at the airport are:

• American Airlines: Nonstop service to Charlotte, Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Washington Reagan National.
• Delta Air Lines: Nonstop service to Atlanta, Detroit, and Minneapolis/St. Paul.
• United Airlines: Nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare, Denver, and Houston Bush Intercontinental.
• Allegiant Air: Nonstop service to Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando Sanford, Phoenix/Mesa, and St. Petersburg/Clearwater. Seasonal flights to additional leisure markets.
• Frontier Airlines: Nonstop service to Denver with connections onward.

Popular domestic destinations include the major business centers of Dallas, Chicago, and Atlanta. International destinations are generally accessed through these connecting hubs. Seasonal service patterns mean Allegiant in particular may add flights to Florida beaches and desert destinations during peak vacation periods. The airport authority actively recruits additional routes; recent incentive programs have targeted nonstop service to Seattle and Boston.

Getting to and from Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Reaching downtown Bentonville, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and the surrounding hills of the Ozarks is simple from the terminal with multiple ground transportation choices.

Car Rental at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

The car rental counters are located on the lower level of the terminal, directly adjacent to the baggage claim carousels. After picking up your luggage, you simply walk to the counter to complete your paperwork. Cars are parked in a lot just outside the lower-level exit doors, making pickup and drop-off exceptionally fast. The following companies operate on-site:

• Alamo
• Avis
• Budget
• Enterprise
• Hertz
• National

Popular vehicle categories include economy and compact cars for urban trips, SUVs for families headed to Beaver Lake or the Ozark National Forest, and 4x4 vehicles for off-road adventures in the mountain biking preserves. Avis offers a dedicated selection of Fun/Luxury cars at this location. Booking your rental car in advance is strongly recommended, as inventory can sell out during major events like the Bentonville Film Festival or busy holiday weekends. Renting a car is the best way to explore the region, which is spread out across multiple cities connected by highways rather than a single dense downtown.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport Taxi Services

Taxis queue on the lower-level curb outside baggage claim. Taxi service is provided by local companies including NWA Airport Taxi. A ride to downtown Bentonville costs approximately $40 and takes about 20 minutes. A trip to Fayetteville costs about $50 and takes 35 minutes. Most taxis accept credit cards, but it is wise to confirm with the driver before departing.

Private Car Services at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

For a more premium experience, Pinnacle Car Services and James & James Luxury Transportation offer pre-booked, fixed-rate rides. Chauffeurs meet you in baggage claim with a name sign. Sedans and SUVs are available. Rates to downtown Bentonville typically start at $75. These services are ideal for corporate travelers heading to Walmart headquarters or visitors celebrating a special occasion.

Bus Services at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Ozark Regional Transit Route 62 stops at the airport on weekdays from approximately 6:15 AM to 6:15 PM. The bus stop is located on the lower-level roadway near the ground transportation area. Fare is $1.50. This service connects to the Rogers hub, where you can transfer to other ORT routes for Bentonville and beyond, but service is not available on weekends and frequency is limited.

Hotel Shuttles

Several nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to the airport. The Courtyard by Marriott Bentonville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bentonville, and Wingate by Wyndham all operate shuttles. It is best to arrange pickup directly with the hotel when making your reservation, as shuttles often run on-demand rather than on a fixed schedule.

Parking at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Parking at Northwest Arkansas National Airport is straightforward with four primary options, all located within walking distance of the terminal entrance.

• Short-Term Parking: Ideal for pickups and brief stays. Located directly opposite the terminal. Rates are $2 per hour, up to a daily maximum of $14.
• Garage Parking: A multi-story covered garage connected to the terminal by a covered pedestrian bridge on level 3. Rate is $12 per day. This is the best option for multi-day business trips, protecting your car from Ozark weather.
• Economy Lot: An uncovered surface lot with a short, uncovered walk to the terminal. Rate is $9 per day. The most economical multi-day choice.
• Premium Reserved: The closest covered spaces for $16 per day. Reservable online via the airport website.

All parking lots accept credit and debit cards for payment. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the Short-Term lot on level 1 of the garage, with four Tesla destination chargers and two universal J-1772 plugs available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Places to Explore near Northwest Arkansas National Airport

The area surrounding the airport serves as a launchpad to some of America's best art, outdoor recreation, and culinary scenes. Here are the top destinations and their driving times from the terminal:

• Downtown Bentonville Square: 20 minutes. Home to the Walmart Museum, 21c Museum Hotel, local boutiques, and excellent restaurants like Tusk & Trotter and The Hive.
• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: 20 minutes. A world-class art museum set in a stunning Moshe Safdie-designed building surrounded by 120 acres of Ozark forest. Admission is free.
• The Momentary: 20 minutes. A contemporary art space and performance venue in a former cheese factory.
• Coler Mountain Bike Preserve: 25 minutes. 21 miles of mountain biking trails within the city limits, suitable for all skill levels.
• Fayetteville (University of Arkansas): 35 minutes. Home to the Razorbacks and Dickson Street's lively entertainment district.
• Eureka Springs: 55 minutes. A Victorian-era resort town in the Ozark Mountains with winding streets, historic hotels, and arts galleries.
• Beaver Lake: 30 minutes. A 28,000-acre reservoir offering boating, fishing, swimming, and lakeside camping.
• Devil's Den State Park: 50 minutes. Hiking, mountain biking, and rustic cabin stays in the Ozark National Forest.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Bentonville

Bentonville experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing its own character to the Ozark landscape.

Spring (March–May): Temperatures range from 45°F to 75°F (7°C–24°C). Dogwoods and redbuds bloom, and the downtown square erupts with tulips. This is ideal for biking and outdoor art at Crystal Bridges. Spring is festival season, with events like the Bentonville Film Festival in late spring. Pack a rain jacket, as April showers are common.

Summer (June–August): Temperatures range from 70°F to 92°F (21°C–33°C). Humidity can be high. Mornings are best for mountain biking at Coler Preserve or taking a boat out on Beaver Lake. Afternoons sometimes bring pop-up thunderstorms. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Fall (September–November): Temperatures range from 45°F to 75°F (7°C–24°C). Autumn is spectacular, with brilliant Ozark foliage peaking in late October. This is the best time for scenic drives and hiking at Devil's Den State Park. Cool, crisp air makes for perfect patio dining downtown.

Winter (December–February): Temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C–10°C). Winters are relatively mild, though occasional ice storms can cause travel delays. Crowds are thinnest, and you can have museum galleries nearly to yourself. If snow falls, the region is beautiful but prepare for limited winter trail access.

Best Time to Visit: October for peak fall color, or late April through May for perfect outdoor adventure weather.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival Time: Arrive at the airport 90 minutes before domestic flights. An hour is often sufficient on non-holiday weekdays, but 90 minutes ensures a stress-free experience through the single checkpoint.
• Flight Status: Check your flight status on the flyxna.com website or your airline's app before departing for the airport.
• Packing Advice: Layered clothing works best year-round. Even in summer, indoor spaces can be air-conditioned. If visiting for mountain biking, many hotels can arrange bike rentals, so you may not need to ship your own bike.
• Cash vs. Card: Bentonville is almost entirely cashless-friendly. Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, including the airport. Carry a small amount of cash for farmers' markets or tips.
• Language: English is universally spoken.
• Documentation: A valid state driver's license or REAL ID-compliant identification is required to pass through TSA security. Starting May 2025, standard driver's licenses from some non-compliant states may require a passport for domestic air travel.
• Driver's License for Car Rental: A valid U.S. driver's license is required. International visitors should present a valid foreign driver's license along with their passport. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not strictly required in Arkansas.
• Fuel Stations: The closest gas station to the terminal is the Casey's General Store, located approximately 2 miles east on Airport Boulevard. Fill up your rental car here before returning to avoid refueling charges from the car rental companies.

About the City

Bentonville, Arkansas, has transformed from a quiet Ozarks town into a world-class destination for art, culture, and outdoor recreation. With a population of about 55,000, the city punches well above its weight. As the birthplace and headquarters of Walmart, the city has attracted top culinary talent, architects, and artists from around the globe.

The heart of Bentonville is its historic downtown square, anchored by the beautifully restored Benton County Courthouse. Around the square, James Beard-recognized chefs run farm-to-table restaurants serving High South cuisine. The opening of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in 2011, funded by the Walton Family Foundation, placed Bentonville on the cultural map with a collection spanning from colonial-era portraits to contemporary installations. The museum's free admission reflects the city's commitment to accessibility.

Bentonville is also the mountain biking capital of the South, with over 40 miles of interconnected soft-surface trails crisscrossing the city. Slaughter Pen Hollow and Coler Preserve offer experiences from beginner flow trails to expert downhill runs. Whether you come for the art, the trails, the food, or the business opportunities, Bentonville rewards visitors with an experience that feels simultaneously cosmopolitan and deeply connected to its Ozark setting.

Start Your Journey at Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Northwest Arkansas National Airport is your welcoming gateway to the Ozarks, combining the ease of a small airport with the cultural and recreational depth of a premier American destination. Start your journey right by comparing car rental options and securing the best rate before you arrive. With your own vehicle, you will have the freedom to explore everything this remarkable corner of Arkansas has to offer, from museum galleries to mountain vistas. Book your rental car in advance today and look forward to a trip where art, adventure, and genuine Ozark hospitality meet.