Medford Airport (MFR) – Complete Travel Guide 2026
IATA Code
MFR
ICAO Code
KMFR
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport quick facts
| Airport Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | 1000 Terminal Loop Parkway, Medford, OR 97504 |
| Website | https://jacksoncountyor.org/airport |
| Airlines | Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines |
| Terminals | Single integrated terminal building with a two-level layout |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 1.1 million |
| Hub for | Not a hub; focus city for Horizon Air (Alaska Air Group) operations |
| Phone Number | +1 541-776-7222 |
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport (MFR) serves as the primary aviation gateway for Southern Oregon and Northern California. With a single, efficient terminal building, Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport caters to more than one million passengers annually. The facility is publicly owned by Jackson County and sits three miles north of downtown Medford. Here is what you need to know before traveling through this essential regional hub.
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport Terminal Map and Layout
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport features a single, linear two-story terminal building that is remarkably easy to navigate. The layout consists of an upper-level departure concourse and a lower-level arrivals and baggage claim area. Since there is only one terminal, you never need to worry about inter-terminal transit, shuttles, or long walks between gates. The terminal has recently undergone updates to accommodate the growing passenger demand, including a spacious central lobby that connects the ticketing area, security checkpoint, and the post-security concourse. All gates are accessible from a single hallway past the TSA checkpoint, ensuring that even the furthest gate is no more than a five-minute walk from the central food court.
Navigating Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport Terminals
Given the single-terminal layout, navigation is straightforward. Upon entering the main entrance on the upper level, you encounter the airline ticketing counters. After checking bags, the TSA security checkpoint is located centrally. Once through security, you are in the main departure lounge with access to all gates and concessions.
Main Terminal (Upper Level - Departures)
- Airlines that check in at this terminal: All carriers including Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American, Avelo, Delta, and United.
- Key features: The post-security area features high ceilings with natural light, a central seating area with charging stations, and views of the runway and the surrounding Siskiyou Mountains.
- Dining and shopping highlights: A central gift shop and newsstand offering local Oregon goods, snacks, and reading materials. Dining includes a full-service restaurant and bar serving local wines and craft beers, as well as a grab-and-go coffee kiosk.
Main Terminal (Lower Level - Arrivals)
- Airlines that check in at this terminal: N/A (Check-in is upstairs).
- Key features: Baggage claim carousels, rental car counters, and the exit to ground transportation. The lobby features a high ceiling with exposed wood beams reflecting Pacific Northwest architecture.
- Dining and shopping highlights: Vending options are available near baggage claim. The rental car counters are located immediately across from the baggage carousels for quick access.
Transportation to and from Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Getting between Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport and the surrounding Rogue Valley is efficient and straightforward. The airport's location just off Interstate 5 provides quick freeway access to Ashland, Grants Pass, and the California border. While public transit options are limited compared to major metropolitan airports, the availability of rental cars, rideshares, and hotel shuttles ensures a smooth transition from the aircraft to your final destination in Southern Oregon.
Getting to and from Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport by Car
Driving is the most popular and convenient way to access the airport. The airport is located directly off Biddle Road, with easy access from I-5 Exit 30. Traffic congestion is rare in Medford, but allow an extra ten minutes during weekday rush hours (7:30-8:30 AM and 4:30-5:30 PM) primarily due to Crater Lake Highway merging.
Parking Rates: Parking costs $3.00 per hour with a daily maximum of $12.00. The parking lot is located directly across the driveway from the terminal entrance, offering a very short walk to ticketing.
Cell phone waiting lot: A free cell phone waiting area is located at the entrance to the airport loop, allowing drivers to wait for arriving passengers without circling the terminal or parking in paid zones. Curbside drop-off is allowed for immediate unloading only; vehicles cannot be left unattended.
Getting to and from Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport by Rideshare or Taxi
Rideshare services Uber and Lyft operate throughout the Rogue Valley and are authorized to pick up and drop off at the airport. The designated pickup area is located on the lower level outside of baggage claim. You can request a ride via the app as soon as you collect your luggage. There is a specific rideshare queue zone just beyond the commercial vehicle lane, and the app will instruct you to meet your driver at the numbered pillar. Fares to downtown Medford typically range from $15 to $25. Taxis are also available but generally require advance reservation with local companies like Yellow Cab of Medford.
Getting to and from Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport by Public Transportation
Public bus service is provided by Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD). Route 61 connects the airport to downtown Medford and the Front Street Transfer Station. While this is the most affordable option, the frequency is designed for commuters rather than airport travelers, so careful schedule planning is essential. The bus stop is located at the south end of the terminal loop near the cell phone lot.
| Route | First Bus/Train | Last Bus/Train | Frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RVTD Route 61 | 6:05 AM | 6:35 PM (Weekdays Only) | Every 60 minutes | $2.00 |
Key Amenities at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
ATMs
ATMs are located both pre-security near the ticketing lobby and post-security near the gift shop. They are managed by a local regional bank.
Lost and Found
Lost and Found is managed by Airport Operations. If you left an item on an aircraft, you must contact the airline directly. For items lost in the terminal, contact the airport administration office at +1 541-776-7222 during business hours or visit the information desk.
Luggage services (carts, storage, wrapping)
Smarte Carte luggage carts are available for rent in the baggage claim area for approximately $5.00 per use. Luggage storage and wrapping services are not currently offered.
Pets
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport features a designated outdoor pet relief area located at the far north end of the terminal building, accessible from the arrivals level. An indoor pet relief area is not available post-security. Service animals are accommodated throughout the terminal.
Showers
Public shower facilities are not available at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport. Travelers seeking a shower may find options at the nearby hotels which offer day passes or fitness center access.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are not available at this airport. Travelers arriving from international destinations (via connecting hubs) should ensure they obtain USD at their point of departure or use ATMs upon arrival.
Smoking Area
Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal. Designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal building, well away from the main entrances and air intake vents.
Terminal building features
The terminal is designed with the Pacific Northwest aesthetic in mind, featuring vaulted wood ceilings and large windows that offer views of Table Rocks and the Siskiyou Mountains. The single-level concourse makes it impossible to get lost.
WiFi
Complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the "MFR Free WiFi" network and accept the terms of service. Power outlets and USB charging stations are plentiful in the gate hold areas, including integrated chargers in many of the new seating clusters.
Other Amenities
- Information desk: Located in the main lobby, staffed by volunteers from the Travel Oregon Welcome Center who can provide maps, wine country brochures, and hotel recommendations.
- Medical services: No dedicated medical clinic, but AEDs are located throughout the terminal and first responders are on call.
- Chapel/prayer rooms: A quiet meditation room is available post-security for travelers seeking a moment of calm.
Airport Lounges at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport is a regional airport and does not currently feature traditional airline-branded lounges or independent Priority Pass lounges. The airport's compact size and efficient boarding process generally negate the need for long lounge stays. However, the terminal does offer comfortable seating areas with runway views and a full-service restaurant, Rogue Valley Wine Bar, where you can enjoy local Oregon wines and craft beer before your flight.
| Lounge Name | Location | Access Method | Day Pass Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Dedicated Lounge | N/A | N/A | N/A | Restaurant and bar available post-security |
Other Airports in the Region
While Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport is the primary commercial service airport for the region, private pilots and those traveling to specific remote areas may consider these alternate airfields:
Grants Pass Airport (3S8)
- Distance to city center: 28 miles northwest of Medford (35-minute drive)
- Best for: General aviation and access to the Rogue River's Hellgate Canyon area.
- Unique advantages: Scenic approach over the Rogue River; ideal for fishing and jet boat excursion trips.
Klamath Falls Airport (LMT)
- Distance to city center: 76 miles east of Medford (1.5-hour drive)
- Best for: Travelers visiting Crater Lake National Park from the south or east.
- Unique advantages: Closer proximity to Crater Lake's south entrance and the Klamath Basin wildlife refuges.
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport Overview
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport traces its roots back to the early 20th century as a small municipal airfield. It earned the "International" designation due to the presence of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection office that allows for general aviation and corporate aircraft to clear customs directly, though it does not currently have scheduled commercial international passenger flights. The airport is a vital economic engine for Jackson County, supporting tourism to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Rogue Valley wineries, and Crater Lake National Park. It handles approximately 1.1 million passengers annually. In response to record-breaking growth, major expansion plans are in design to double the terminal footprint and add a new concourse with six mainline gates by the end of the decade.
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport Postal Code
- Full postal code: 97504
- City: Medford
- Province/State: Oregon
- Country: United States
- Complete mailing address: 1000 Terminal Loop Parkway, Medford, OR 97504
Duty Free and Shopping at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Duty-free shopping is not available at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport. The "International" designation relates to customs services for private aircraft, not commercial duty-free retail. However, the airport's gift shop offers a delightful selection of local Oregon products. You can purchase everything from locally roasted coffee and hazelnut snacks to bottles of Rogue Valley wine and handmade souvenirs. It is an excellent spot for last-minute gifts that capture the essence of Southern Oregon.
| Product | Category | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Rogue Valley Wine (Local Vineyard) | Alcohol | $25 - $45 |
| Oregon Hazelnuts (Chocolate Covered) | Food/Snack | $12 |
| Myrtlewood Bowl | Local Craft | $40 |
| Oregon Shakespeare Festival Merch | Souvenir | $20 |
Security Wait Times Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
One of the significant advantages of a regional airport like Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport is the efficient TSA checkpoint. Wait times are consistently among the lowest in the nation. Unless there is a system-wide operational issue, passengers rarely wait more than 10-15 minutes to clear security. The airport maintains very low TSA employee call-out rates, ensuring consistent staffing. Peak times coincide with the first flights of the morning (4:30 AM - 6:00 AM) and the midday bank of flights to hubs like Seattle, Denver, and San Francisco.
| Terminal | Typical Wait Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal Checkpoint | 5 - 15 minutes | 4:30 AM - 6:00 AM |
Tips to minimize wait times: TSA PreCheck is available and highly recommended for frequent travelers. The PreCheck lane typically flows in under 5 minutes. Global Entry and CLEAR are not available at this airport. Standard liquids rules (3.4oz/100ml) apply.
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information
- Departures drop-off zone: Located on the upper roadway directly outside the ticketing lobby. Active loading/unloading only. Vehicles may not be left unattended; security enforces a strict 3-minute limit for active loading.
- Arrivals pick-up zone: Located on the lower roadway outside baggage claim. Similar active loading policy in effect.
- Cell phone lot: A free waiting lot is located on Terminal Loop Parkway just before you reach the terminal. It offers a clear view of arriving traffic from Biddle Road and has no time limit.
- Commercial vehicle zones: Rideshare pickups are directed to the far end of the arrivals curb, clearly marked with signage.
Flight Routes and Airlines at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport is served by six major and regional carriers, offering nonstop connections to major western hubs. While Horizon Air maintains a significant operational presence with approximately two-dozen daily flights, there is no single "hub" airline. Service is a mix of mainline jets and regional aircraft.
- Primary airlines: Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines.
- Popular domestic destinations: Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), Denver (DEN), Phoenix (PHX), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Las Vegas (LAS).
- International destinations: None (connecting service via hubs).
- Seasonal flights: Seasonal nonstop service to destinations like San Diego and additional frequencies to leisure markets during summer.
Getting to and from Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Given the spread-out nature of the Rogue Valley and the lack of a robust commuter rail system, ground transportation options are heavily focused on private vehicles and rental cars. Whether you're heading to a play in Ashland or a wine tour in Applegate Valley, arranging your ride ahead of time ensures a stress-free visit.
Car Rental at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Renting a car is the best way to explore the Rogue Valley's diverse geography, from the wineries of Jacksonville to the summit of Crater Lake. All major rental agencies operate on-site in the lower-level baggage claim area, allowing for a seamless transition from flight to highway. Counters are located immediately across from the baggage carousels.
- Car rental companies: Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, and Alamo.
- Popular vehicle types: Standard Sedans for city driving, SUVs for mountain passes and winery gravel roads, and 4x4 or AWD vehicles highly recommended for Crater Lake winter visits.
- Booking: Advance reservations are essential during the summer tourism season and during the Oregon Shakespeare Festival season (February-October).
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport Taxi Services
Local taxi services are available but generally require a reservation. Uber and Lyft dominate the on-demand market. Fares to downtown Medford are approximately $18-22. Fares to Ashland (the location of the Shakespeare Festival) range from $35 to $45. Payment is handled exclusively through the app for rideshare; local taxis accept cash and card.
Private Car Services at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
For a premium experience, several limousine and black car services operate in the valley, offering meet-and-greet services with fixed rates to wineries and hotels. This is a popular option for wedding parties and corporate travelers heading to local vineyards. Advance booking is required.
Bus Services at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
RVTD Route 61 provides bus service on weekdays. While affordable, the schedule is limited. The bus stop is a short walk from the lower-level exit.
Hotel Shuttles
Several nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle service. The Rogue Regency Inn and Suites, SpringHill Suites Medford, and the Courtyard by Marriott Medford Airport typically provide on-demand or scheduled pickups. Confirm availability and pickup instructions with the hotel front desk directly before arrival.
Parking at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
- Short-term and Long-term Parking: The airport operates a single, unified parking lot. The rate is $3.00 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12.00. There is no distinction between short-term and long-term rates; the same affordable daily cap applies regardless of stay length.
- Economy/Budget Parking: Not applicable. The main lot serves as the only option, and its proximity to the terminal makes it both convenient and economical.
- Payment methods: Major credit and debit cards accepted at the automated exit gates. Cash is not accepted at the exit gates; use the pay-on-foot machine in the terminal lobby before returning to your vehicle if paying with cash.
- Electric vehicle charging stations: Multiple EV charging ports are available in the parking lot, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Places to explore near Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
- Downtown Medford (10 minutes): A revitalized historic district with the Craterian Theater, boutique shops, and a growing number of craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants.
- Jacksonville (15 minutes): A National Historic Landmark town with brick buildings, antique shops, and the summer-long Britt Music & Arts Festival.
- Ashland (20 minutes): Home to the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival and beautiful Lithia Park.
- Rogue Valley Wine Country (15-30 minutes): Over 30 wineries in the Applegate Valley AVA, known for Tempranillo and Viognier.
- Crater Lake National Park (1 hour 30 minutes to Rim Village): The deepest lake in the United States, accessible via the scenic Crater Lake Highway (OR-62).
- Table Rocks (20 minutes to trailhead): Iconic flat-top mesas offering moderate hikes with panoramic valley views.
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Medford
Medford enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
- Summer (June-August): Highs average 90°F (32°C) but can exceed 100°F. Ideal for rafting the Rogue River and evening Shakespeare plays.
- Autumn (September-October): Arguably the best time to visit. Highs in the 70s°F (20s°C), harvest season in wine country, and beautiful fall color.
- Winter (November-February): Cool and damp in the valley with highs around 45°F (7°C). Snow is rare on the valley floor but heavy in the mountains, making it perfect for skiing at Mt. Ashland (45-minute drive).
- Spring (March-May): Mild and green with wildflowers blooming in the foothills. Weather can be changeable; pack layers.
Essential Travel Tips
- Arrival time: 90 minutes before departure is plenty for domestic flights; 60 minutes is often sufficient if you have TSA PreCheck and no checked bags.
- Flight status: Weather in San Francisco or Seattle can cause ripple delays. Monitor your inbound aircraft status.
- Packing: Layers are essential year-round. Even in summer, evenings in Ashland can be cool. A rain jacket is wise from November through April.
- Currency: USD. Cards are widely accepted, but some remote wineries and farm stands prefer cash.
- Car rental requirements: A valid US driver's license and credit card are required. International visitors need a passport and, if not in English, an International Driving Permit.
- Fuel stations: The nearest gas stations for rental car return fill-ups are located on Biddle Road, just 0.5 miles south of the airport entrance.
About the City
Medford is the economic and medical hub of Southern Oregon, situated in the heart of the Rogue Valley. With a population of over 85,000, it offers a strategic basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of the Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges. The city has evolved from a pear-growing agricultural center into a burgeoning destination for foodies and wine lovers. Harry & David's flagship store is a must-visit for gourmet gifts. The surrounding valley is dotted with family-owned vineyards and the wild and scenic Rogue River, famous for its jet boat excursions and world-class salmon fishing. Medford's central location means you are never more than 90 minutes from a volcanic lake, a world-class theater, or a quiet trail through old-growth forest.
Start Your Journey at Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport
Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport offers a refreshingly stress-free travel experience that mirrors the relaxed, welcoming culture of Southern Oregon. By avoiding the crowds and congestion of major hubs, you save valuable vacation time. Whether you are here for the plays, the pinot noir, or the pristine peaks, securing your vehicle in advance is the key to unlocking the region's hidden gems. Plan ahead and book your rental car to ensure a smooth departure from the terminal and a memorable journey through the stunning Rogue Valley.
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