Augusta Airport (AGS) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Augusta Regional Airport quick facts

Augusta Regional Airport serves as the primary commercial gateway for the Central Savannah River Area. Located just south of downtown Augusta, this single-terminal facility handles commercial and general aviation traffic while maintaining a reputation for efficiency and Southern hospitality. The airport serves domestic carriers including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. With one passenger terminal, Augusta Regional Airport accommodates approximately 600,000 travelers annually. Here is what you need to know:

Augusta Regional Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Augusta Regional Airport features a straightforward, single-level terminal design that prioritizes ease of navigation. The terminal is arranged in a linear configuration with departures on one end and arrivals on the other. All gates are located in one contiguous concourse area, making connections effortless. The entire terminal can be walked end-to-end in approximately 5 to 7 minutes at a normal pace. Since all operations are housed under one roof, there is no need for shuttles between terminals or concourses.

Walking distances are minimal. From the security checkpoint to the farthest gate, travelers can expect to cover less than 500 feet. Moving walkways are not necessary due to the compact nature of the building, though seating areas are plentiful throughout the gate hold rooms. For passengers with mobility concerns, wheelchair assistance is available upon request from the airlines. The best route for connecting flights is simply following the main corridor—you cannot get lost.

Navigating Augusta Regional Airport Terminals

Main Terminal
Airlines that check in at this terminal: American Airlines and Delta Air Lines handle all ticketing and check-in from the main lobby counters located directly inside the main entrance. The terminal underwent a significant renovation and expansion project that modernized the gate areas and baggage claim facilities. Key features include a post-security concession area with a combined gift shop and snack bar. Dining and shopping highlights include the Augusta News & Gifts shop and the Runway Grill, which offers Southern-style breakfast sandwiches and burgers. A small business center with charging stations is located near the departure gates.

Transportation to and from Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Regional Airport is located approximately 7 miles south of downtown Augusta, providing a quick and easy connection to the city center via Georgia Highway 56 and Interstate 520. Most travelers reach the airport by private car, rental vehicle, or rideshare. Traffic in the immediate vicinity of the airport is generally light compared to major metropolitan hubs, though travelers should allow extra time during the annual Masters Tournament when the area experiences significantly increased volume.

Getting to and from Augusta Regional Airport by Car

Traffic on Aviation Way and Doug Barnard Parkway is typically free-flowing outside of peak business hours. The airport offers several on-site parking options ranging from short-term convenience to long-term economy rates. The parking facilities are all surface lots located directly adjacent to the terminal building. Cell phone waiting lot is available at the entrance to the airport property. Curbside drop-off and pick-up are permitted directly in front of the terminal, but strict rules prohibit unattended vehicles and loitering. Security personnel actively enforce the rule that drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times on the curb front.

Terminal parking rates (Short-Term Lot) cost $2.00 for the first hour and $12.00 per 24-hour period. The Long-Term Lot offers a daily maximum of $10.00 per 24-hour period. The first 30 minutes are free in both lots, which is perfect for quick pick-ups. Economy parking is essentially the Long-Term Lot; there is no dedicated remote economy lot requiring a shuttle bus. Private parking lots near the airport are limited as on-site parking is affordable and plentiful. Park and fly packages are available at nearby hotels such as the Sheraton Augusta Hotel and the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center. Advance booking for parking is not required as the airport does not currently offer online reservations.

Getting to and from Augusta Regional Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Uber and Lyft operate extensively throughout Augusta and are authorized to pick up and drop off at Augusta Regional Airport. The designated pickup area is located directly outside the baggage claim area on the lower curb. There is no shuttle required to reach the rideshare zone; it is a few steps from the baggage carousel exit doors. To request a ride, open your preferred app once you have collected your luggage and follow the signs for Ride App Pickup.

Augusta Taxi Service also operates from the airport. Taxis queue outside the terminal near the ground transportation island. Estimated fares to the city center are typically between $20 and $25. Rideshare fares to downtown Augusta average between $15 and $22 depending on demand and time of day.

Getting to and from Augusta Regional Airport by Public Transportation

Public bus services are provided by Augusta Public Transit. The nearest bus stop is located on Doug Barnard Parkway at Aviation Way, which is a short 0.3-mile walk from the terminal building along a sidewalk. This route is manageable with light luggage but may be challenging for those with heavy bags. Currently, there is no direct dedicated shuttle connection from the terminal door to the bus stop.

Route 7 (Barton Chapel/Augusta Mall) serves this corridor. Travelers should use the departure times as a general guideline and check real-time tracking for the most accurate arrival predictions.

Key Amenities at Augusta Regional Airport

ATMs

ATMs are located in the pre-security lobby near the rental car counters and in the post-security concourse near the gate seating area. There are two ATMs in total within the terminal building.

Lost and Found

Lost and Found is managed by the Augusta Regional Airport Administration and Airport Police. If you have lost an item on an aircraft, you must contact the airline directly. For items left in the terminal or parking lots, call (706) 798-3236 or visit the information desk in the main lobby. The Lost and Found office is located on the second floor of the terminal administrative offices and is accessible by appointment only.

Luggage services (carts, storage, wrapping)

Smarte Carte luggage carts are available in the baggage claim area and near the terminal entrance. The rental cost is $5.00 per cart. Luggage storage and wrapping services are not currently offered at Augusta Regional Airport.

Pets

Augusta Regional Airport features a designated pet relief area located outside the terminal building near the arrivals end, just past the baggage claim exit. This is an outdoor grassy area with waste bag dispensers. Inside the secure area, there is a designated Service Animal Relief Area near Gate 2. Pets must remain in their carriers at all times unless they are service animals actively working.

Showers

Showers are not available to the general public at Augusta Regional Airport. There are currently no airline lounges or club spaces within the terminal that offer shower facilities.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are not available at Augusta Regional Airport due to the primarily domestic nature of the flight routes. Travelers arriving from international destinations will need to have exchanged currency at their departure airport or use local ATMs for USD.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal, at least 50 feet from the main entrance doors. Once you pass through security screening, you cannot smoke until you exit the building completely.

Terminal building features

The terminal features a single-story layout with high ceilings and natural light in the concourse area. The compact design allows travelers to quickly move from check-in to gate without long walks or confusing signage. The building showcases local art and photography highlighting Augusta's golf heritage and the Savannah River region.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal building. To connect, select the network "FlyAGS-Free-WiFi" and accept the terms of use. No password is required. Charging stations are conveniently located at every gate seating pod and at the high-top counters in the concourse dining area. Outlets and USB ports are abundant and well-maintained.

Other Amenities
Information desk services are available during operational hours and staffed by airport ambassadors who can assist with directions and local information. Basic medical services are provided by Airport Fire and Rescue, and there is a First Aid room located in the terminal. A quiet meditation room or chapel is not currently available at the airport.

Airport Lounges at Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Regional Airport does not feature traditional airline membership lounges or credit card-affiliated lounges in its permanent terminal structure. As a smaller regional airport, the daily passenger volume does not sustain full-service lounge operations. However, during special events such as the Masters Tournament, the airport partners with aviation service providers to open temporary hospitality suites for flight crews and private aviation personnel.

Airline Lounges at Augusta Regional Airport

Currently, there are no permanent airline lounges operated by American Airlines or Delta Air Lines at Augusta Regional Airport. Passengers holding lounge memberships with these carriers will not find a dedicated club location here. The nearest Delta Sky Club and American Admirals Club are located at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport respectively.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

There are no American Express Centurion Lounges, Capital One Lounges, or Chase Sapphire Lounges at Augusta Regional Airport.

Priority Pass Lounges at Augusta Regional Airport

Priority Pass currently has no lounge or restaurant partner locations at Augusta Regional Airport. Members should plan to use any food and beverage credits at their connecting hub airport rather than expecting benefits here.

Other Airports in the Region

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Distance to city center: 145 miles west of Augusta (approx 2 hours 15 minutes drive). Best for international flights and travelers seeking nonstop global connections. Unique advantages: World's busiest airport with extensive dining and shopping. Recommended for international trips or when lower fares offset the drive time.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Distance to city center: 160 miles northeast of Augusta (approx 2 hours 30 minutes drive). Best for travelers heading to the Carolinas or needing an American Airlines hub alternative. Unique advantages: Compact layout for a hub, fast security lanes. Recommended for East Coast connections.

Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
Distance to city center: 75 miles east of Augusta (approx 1 hour 15 minutes drive). Best for travelers in the eastern suburbs of Aiken or South Carolina side of the metro. Unique advantages: Extremely low crowds, easy parking access. Recommended for a low-stress alternative when AGS fares are high.

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
Distance to city center: 130 miles southeast of Augusta (approx 2 hours drive). Best for combining a trip to Augusta with the Georgia coast. Unique advantages: Beautiful open-air atrium design, modern terminal. Recommended for leisure travelers planning to visit both inland and coastal Georgia.

Augusta Regional Airport Overview

Augusta Regional Airport, historically known as Bush Field, has a rich heritage dating back to World War II when it served as a training base for the Army Air Corps. The airport transitioned to civilian use and has grown steadily as the primary air service provider for the Augusta-Richmond County metropolitan area. The official name is Augusta Regional Airport at Bush Field. The airport is located approximately 7 miles south of downtown Augusta and serves as a critical economic engine for the Central Savannah River Area.

The facility operates as a joint civil-military airport but the military presence is minimal compared to its WWII peak. Annual passenger traffic is approximately 600,000 travelers, though this number spikes significantly during the first full week of April due to the Masters Tournament. The airport consists of one main passenger terminal and two runways: 8/26 and 17/35.

Augusta Regional Airport Postal Code

Full postal code: 30906
City: Augusta
Province/State: Georgia (GA)
Country: United States
Complete mailing address: Augusta Regional Airport, 1501 Aviation Way, Augusta, GA 30906

Duty Free and Shopping at Augusta Regional Airport

Duty-free shopping is not available at Augusta Regional Airport. The airport exclusively serves domestic flights, and there are no customs and border protection facilities for processing international commercial passengers. Therefore, tax and duty-free purchasing options do not exist.

Available shops and stores include Augusta News & Gifts, which offers a selection of magazines, books, snacks, beverages, and travel essentials. This shop also carries a small but well-curated selection of Augusta-themed souvenirs including Masters-inspired golf accessories (non-tournament specific), Georgia pecans, and peach preserves. The Runway Grill provides hot food options for travelers looking for a meal before departure.

Shopping tips for the airport: Prices for snacks and drinks are reasonable for an airport environment, but travelers looking for specific dietary items or a wider selection of reading material should plan to purchase these before arriving at the terminal. Souvenirs specific to the Augusta area, particularly high-end golf memorabilia, are better purchased at shops in the Augusta National area or downtown Augusta galleries. The airport gift shop is best for last-minute Georgia pecan log rolls and branded Augusta Regional Airport t-shirts.

Security Wait Times Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Regional Airport is known for efficient security processing. Because of the single terminal layout and relatively low daily flight volume, TSA wait times are consistently some of the shortest in the Southeast. Typical wait times average between 5 and 15 minutes on normal travel days. During peak periods—specifically early Monday mornings and late Thursday afternoons—wait times may extend to 20-25 minutes at the highest. The absolute busiest period of the year is the Monday following the conclusion of the Masters Tournament, where lines can stretch to 45 minutes or more due to the surge in private and commercial departures.

Peak travel times include weekdays between 5:30 AM and 7:30 AM for the first bank of departures, and Sunday afternoons for returning travelers. TSA PreCheck is available and operates during standard checkpoint hours, usually opening 90 minutes prior to the first departure. CLEAR is not currently available at Augusta Regional Airport. Global Entry enrollment interviews are not conducted on-site; travelers must go to Atlanta or Charlotte for enrollment centers.

Augusta Regional Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Departures drop-off zone: Located on the upper (north) curb of the terminal entrance. Drivers may stop for active unloading only. There is a strict 2-minute limit for dropping off passengers. Unattended vehicles will be ticketed and towed immediately by Airport Police.

Arrivals pick-up zone: Located on the lower (south) curb outside the baggage claim area. Similar to departures, this is an active loading zone. Drivers must remain with their vehicles. If your passenger is not curbside and ready to go, you must use the cell phone lot. Do not park and wait at the curb.

Cell phone lot: Located at the entrance to the airport drive off Doug Barnard Parkway. The lot offers free waiting for up to 60 minutes. There are no restroom facilities in the lot. Once your arriving passenger has collected luggage and is at the curb, the drive to the terminal takes approximately 1 minute.

Kiss and Fly zone: Not applicable. This airport does not have a dedicated remote drop-off with transit connection. All drop-offs occur at the main terminal curbside.

Commercial vehicle zones: Taxis and rideshare vehicles pick up from the designated lanes in the commercial ground transportation area directly across the driveway from baggage claim. Shuttles and buses load in the far lane adjacent to the parking lot.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Regional Airport is served by two primary airlines: American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. While it is not a hub for any airline, American Airlines maintains a very strong presence with regional jet service to its Charlotte and Dallas/Fort Worth hubs. Delta Air Lines provides essential connectivity to its megahub in Atlanta.

Popular domestic destinations include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) via Delta, and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) via American. Seasonal adjustments are common, especially during the Masters Tournament. During that week, American Airlines adds temporary nonstop routes from markets such as New York-LaGuardia, Boston-Logan, Chicago-O'Hare, and Philadelphia. There are no scheduled international flights operating out of Augusta Regional Airport. Charter services and heavy private aviation traffic fill the airspace during tournament week. Travelers are advised to book flights well in advance for early April travel as seats sell out months ahead.

Getting to and from Augusta Regional Airport

Navigating ground transportation at Augusta Regional Airport is simple due to its compact size. All ground transportation options—rental cars, taxis, rideshares, and hotel shuttles—are located within a short walking distance of the baggage claim area.

Car Rental at Augusta Regional Airport

Rental car counters are located inside the terminal on the lower level near baggage claim. A centralized rental car facility is not needed as the rental car fleet is parked in the lot directly across from the terminal exit. After completing paperwork at the counter, travelers simply walk across the driveway to pick up their vehicle. This is one of the most convenient car rental setups in the region.

Car rental companies operating at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, and Thrifty. Popular vehicle types available range from economy sedans perfect for city driving to SUVs for families and luxury options for those attending events at Augusta National. Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly from March through May, as inventory can sell out during golf season and the annual Arts Festival. Renting a car is highly beneficial for exploring the region as public transit is limited. Having a car allows you to easily visit the Augusta Canal, Riverwalk, and day trips to Aiken, South Carolina.

Augusta Regional Airport Taxi Services

Augusta Taxi Service is the primary local taxi operator serving the airport. Taxis are available on-demand at the commercial curb or can be reserved by calling (706) 855-0000. Availability is generally good, but during peak arrival banks, a short wait of 10-15 minutes may occur. Estimated fare to downtown Augusta is $22. Payment methods include cash and all major credit cards.

Private Car Services at Augusta Regional Airport

For a premium alternative to taxis, Executive Limousine and several local black car services provide pre-arranged sedan and SUV service. These offer fixed rates and meet-and-greet service inside baggage claim. This option is best for business travelers attending meetings at the Georgia Cyber Center or families wanting a guaranteed large vehicle during the Masters Tournament.

Bus Services at Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Public Transit Route 7 serves the area with a stop located on Doug Barnard Parkway near Aviation Way. The bus does not pull directly up to the terminal door. Travelers must walk approximately 0.3 miles along a sidewalk from the terminal to the bus stop. Fare is $1.50 per ride. Service frequency is approximately every hour.

Hotel Shuttles

Several nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle service. The Sheraton Augusta Hotel, Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, and the Hyatt Place Augusta provide courtesy transportation for guests. Travelers should contact the hotel directly upon arrival to arrange pickup. Look for the hotel shuttle pick-up zone signs near the far end of the commercial curb.

Parking at Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Regional Airport offers straightforward, affordable parking with lots located immediately adjacent to the terminal. All parking is surface-level and uncovered.

Short-term parking: Located directly across from the terminal entrance. Ideal for dropping off or picking up passengers. Rate: $2.00 for first hour, $12.00 daily maximum. First 30 minutes free.

Long-term parking: Located next to the short-term lot, just a minute's walk further. Ideal for trips of 2 days or more. Rate: $1.00 per hour, $10.00 daily maximum. First 30 minutes free.

Economy/Budget parking: Augusta Regional Airport does not operate a remote economy lot with a shuttle bus. The Long-Term Lot functions as the economy option given its low daily cap of $10.

Free parking options: The first 30 minutes are free in both short-term and long-term lots. There is no unlimited free parking area.

Payment methods: The exit plaza accepts cash and all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover).

Electric vehicle charging stations: Yes, EV charging stations are available and free to use for parked customers. They are located in the short-term and general aviation parking areas. The airport has partnered with Georgia Power to maintain these stations.

Places to explore near Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Riverwalk (Distance: 7 miles, 15 minutes): A beautiful brick-paved path along the Savannah River featuring gardens, playgrounds, and the Jessye Norman Amphitheater. Perfect for a morning jog or evening stroll.

Augusta Museum of History (Distance: 7 miles, 15 minutes): Home to the permanent exhibition "Augusta's Story" and an extensive collection on the history of golf and James Brown.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park (Distance: 3 miles, 8 minutes): Located directly adjacent to the airport property. This 1,100-acre nature park offers hiking trails, boardwalks over cypress swamps, and alligator viewing platforms. It is an ideal spot to stretch your legs before or after a flight.

Aiken, South Carolina (Distance: 20 miles, 30 minutes): A historic equestrian town known for its thoroughbred racing history, charming downtown boutiques, and Hitchcock Woods.

Clarks Hill Lake / J. Strom Thurmond Lake (Distance: 25 miles, 35 minutes): A massive reservoir offering boating, fishing, camping, and swimming beaches. A great escape for nature lovers.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Augusta

Augusta enjoys a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.

• Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). This is the busiest and most beautiful season, coinciding with the Masters Tournament and blooming azaleas. Expect higher hotel and car rental rates.
• Summer (June to August): Temperatures average 70°F to 92°F (21°C to 33°C). Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms common. Ideal for indoor attractions or water activities on the lake.
• Fall (September to November): Temperatures range from 55°F to 80°F (13°C to 27°C). Crisp, dry air and fewer crowds. A fantastic time for golf and outdoor festivals.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures average 35°F to 60°F (2°C to 16°C). Generally mild with occasional cold snaps. Snow is rare but possible.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival time: Arrive 90 minutes before domestic flights. During Masters Week (early April), arrive 2.5 to 3 hours early due to security and traffic surges.
• Flight status: Monitor your airline's mobile app for real-time updates as gate information is subject to change.
• Packing advice: Summer attire requires light fabrics and rain gear. Spring and fall require layers. Winter jackets are rarely needed except in January/February.
• Currency recommendations: Credit cards are universally accepted in Augusta. Cash is useful for small vendors at farmers markets or street festivals.
• Language: English is the primary language.
• Documentation: Standard REAL ID or valid U.S. Passport is required for domestic air travel.
• Driver license requirements: Valid U.S. driver's license is required for car rental. International visitors must present a valid passport and home country license. An International Driving Permit is recommended if the license is not in English.
• Fuel stations: The closest gas station to the rental car return is the Circle K at 2703 Doug Barnard Pkwy, approximately 0.5 miles from the terminal entrance. Fuel up here to avoid refueling charges.

About the City

Augusta is Georgia's second oldest and second largest city, situated along the fall line of the Savannah River. Founded in 1736, the city has a deep history stretching from the colonial era through the Civil War and the Industrial Revolution, where the Augusta Canal powered mills and factories. With a metro population of over 600,000, Augusta is widely known as the home of the Masters Golf Tournament, yet its identity extends far beyond golf.

Local cuisine is a highlight, defined by Southern comfort food and fresh river fish. Visitors should not miss trying a Pimento Cheeseburger or shrimp and grits at local institutions like Frog Hollow Tavern or the historic Boll Weevil Cafe. The city has become a major hub for cybersecurity and medical research, anchored by Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) and the Georgia Cyber Center. Augusta offers a lower cost of living and a slower pace of life compared to Atlanta, making it an appealing base for exploring the "Garden City" of the South and the charming horse country of Aiken, just across the river.

Start Your Journey at Augusta Regional Airport

Augusta Regional Airport delivers a seamless travel experience that large hubs cannot match. With minimal security waits, affordable parking directly at the terminal door, and a location just minutes from downtown and the swamp trails of Phinizy Swamp, the airport is the most convenient gateway to the Central Savannah River Area. To make the most of your visit—whether you're here for the fairways, the cyber business, or the Southern soul food—you'll want the freedom of your own wheels. Plan ahead and secure your vehicle to guarantee the best selection and rates for your trip to Georgia's Garden City.