Midland Airport (MAF) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

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Midland Airport Quick Facts

Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF) serves as the primary aviation gateway for the Permian Basin region. With a single efficient terminal, MAF caters to more than one million passengers annually. Here is what you need to know: The airport operates as a commercial and spaceport facility, uniquely positioned to serve both airline travelers and aerospace activities. The terminal layout ensures that navigating from curb to gate rarely takes more than 10 minutes, making it one of the most convenient airports in West Texas.

Midland Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Midland International Air & Space Port features a straightforward, linear single-terminal design that prioritizes efficiency and ease of navigation. Unlike sprawling major hubs, MAF eliminates the complexity of multiple terminals or underground trains. The entire facility operates from one central building, housing both the departure gates and the baggage claim area.

Because there is only one terminal, there is no need for post-security connectors between different wings. All gates are located within the same secure concourse area. Walking distances are remarkably short; from the TSA security checkpoint to the furthest gate is approximately 500 feet, a stroll that takes less than three minutes. Moving walkways are not present, simply because the compact footprint of the terminal makes them unnecessary. There are no courtesy shuttles required for gate connections. For connecting flights, passengers simply walk down the main corridor to their next departure gate without any concern for missing a tram or shuttle.

Navigating Midland Airport Terminals

Main Terminal

• Airlines: Southwest Airlines, American Eagle, and United Express all operate from this single terminal.
• Key Features: The terminal underwent significant renovations in recent years to modernize the hold room seating and concession areas. You will find ample charging stations, comfortable seating with integrated power outlets, and large windows offering views of the runway and the adjacent Commemorative Air Force headquarters.
• Dining and Shopping: Pre-security options include a newsstand and a small café. Post-security, travelers can access the Tall City Grill, which serves local Texas fare, and a gift shop featuring Permian Basin souvenirs and travel essentials.

Transportation to and from Midland Airport

Located right off Highway 191 (La Force Boulevard), the airport is exceptionally easy to reach from Midland, Odessa, and the surrounding oilfield communities. The layout of Loop 250 and Interstate 20 ensures that surface traffic flows smoothly to the airport grounds with minimal congestion, even during rush hour. Parking is abundant, rideshare services are active, and rental car facilities are integrated directly into the terminal building.

Getting to and from Midland Airport by Car

Driving to MAF is straightforward. Traffic on La Force Boulevard is generally light compared to larger metropolitan airports, though you should allow an extra five minutes during the morning rush (7:00 AM - 8:30 AM) as oilfield traffic can occasionally spike volume.

Terminal Parking Rates
Parking at Midland Airport is divided into several lots all within walking distance of the terminal entrance.

• Covered Parking (C1): $3.00 for the first hour, $2.00 each additional hour, maximum $15.00 per 24-hour period.
• Close-In Parking (P1 & P3): $2.00 for the first hour, $1.00 each additional hour, maximum $12.00 per day.
• Economy Parking (P2 & P4): $2.00 for the first hour, $1.00 each additional hour, maximum $9.00 per day.
• Remote Economy (P5): Maximum $7.00 per day.
• Remote Covered (C2): Maximum $11.00 per day.

The first 30 minutes in any lot are free, which is perfect for quick drop-offs. There are no private off-site parking lots immediately adjacent to the airport, as the on-airport rates are highly competitive and the walk to the terminal is short. For park-and-fly packages, nearby hotels like the DoubleTree by Hilton or Homewood Suites offer stay-and-park options with complimentary shuttle service to the terminal.

Cell Phone Waiting Lot & Curbside Rules
The Cell Phone Lot is located on La Force Boulevard just before the terminal entrance loop. It is free and allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until arriving passengers call to say they are curbside. Curbside drop-off is permitted only for active loading and unloading; vehicles may not be left unattended, and waiting is strictly prohibited. Security officers monitor the curb to ensure traffic flow.

Getting to and from Midland Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Uber and Lyft are the primary rideshare services operating throughout Midland and Odessa.

• Designated Pickup Area: Rideshare drivers pick up passengers on the Arrivals level curb. Follow the signs for Ground Transportation and look for the specific Rideshare/TNC pickup zone located just outside the baggage claim doors.
• How to Request: You must be physically present in the pickup zone before confirming your ride request in the app.
• Estimated Fares: A ride to Downtown Midland (approximately 10 miles) costs between $20 and $30. A ride to Odessa (approximately 15 miles) costs between $35 and $50.

Getting to and from Midland Airport by Public Transportation

Midland does not have a municipal subway or light rail system. Public transportation is limited to the EZ Rider bus service operated by the Midland-Odessa Urban Transit District.

EZ Rider Bus Service
The EZ Rider does not provide direct terminal-to-terminal service. The nearest bus stop to the airport is located on Tradewinds Boulevard, which is about a 1.5-mile walk from the terminal entrance. This is not a practical option for travelers with luggage, and walking along the highway frontage road is not recommended due to lack of pedestrian infrastructure.

Due to the walking distance and lack of dedicated airport shuttle service connecting to the bus stop, public transit is not a viable option for the vast majority of MAF passengers. Rideshare, taxi, or rental car is strongly advised.

Key Amenities at Midland Airport

ATMs

ATMs are located pre-security near the main entrance doors and post-security adjacent to the Tall City Grill. There are two machines available.

Lost and Found

Lost items within the terminal, parking lots, or security checkpoints are managed by the Airport Operations Department. If you left an item on an aircraft, you must contact your specific airline directly. For airport facilities, call the main airport line at +1 (432) 560-2200 to file a report. The office is located on the administrative level of the terminal.

Luggage Services (Carts, Storage, Wrapping)

Smarte Carte luggage carts are available for rent in the baggage claim area and near the check-in counters. The cost is approximately $5.00 per cart. There is no luggage storage or left luggage facility at MAF. Luggage wrapping services are not currently offered.

Pets

Midland Airport is pet-friendly. There is an outdoor pet relief area with a bench and waste disposal station located just outside the baggage claim doors. An indoor pet relief area is available post-security near the gate hold rooms for travelers connecting with service animals or pets.

Showers

There are no public shower facilities available at MAF, nor are there any airline lounges offering shower amenities.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are not available at Midland International Air & Space Port. Travelers should exchange currency before arriving at the airport.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal. Designated smoking areas are located on the curb outside the terminal building, at least 50 feet from the main entrance doors.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal features high ceilings and a clean, modern aesthetic reflecting the aerospace heritage of the region. Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the SSID: MAF Free WiFi. Charging stations with standard outlets and USB ports are integrated into most seating clusters throughout the departure lounge. An information desk is staffed near baggage claim during peak flight hours. A small meditation room/chapel is located pre-security on the ground floor of the terminal.

Airport Lounges at Midland Airport

Midland International Air & Space Port does not feature traditional membership lounges such as Delta Sky Club, United Club, or American Admirals Club. There is no Priority Pass lounge, Centurion Lounge, or Plaza Premium facility at this location. The airport is served by regional flights and the single terminal layout does not have the space allocated for exclusive club spaces. Travelers seeking a quiet pre-flight experience will find that the main departure gates are rarely overcrowded and offer comfortable seating with views of the ramp.

Other Airports in the Region

For travelers willing to drive for different flight options or cheaper fares, the following airports serve the broader West Texas and Eastern New Mexico region.

Midland Airpark (MDD)
- Distance to City Center: 5 miles (10 minutes)
- Best for: Private pilots and general aviation.
- Unique Advantages: This is a general aviation reliever airport. It has no commercial airline service but offers excellent FBO services for corporate jets.
- Recommended for: Business travelers flying on private aircraft.

Odessa-Schlemeyer Field (ODO)
- Distance to City Center: 8 miles (15 minutes)
- Best for: General aviation and flight training.
- Unique Advantages: Smaller airpark atmosphere. Not a substitute for MAF commercial flights.

Lea County Regional Airport (HOB) in Hobbs, NM
- Distance to City Center: 70 miles (1 hour 10 minutes)
- Best for: Travelers in the northern Permian Basin.
- Unique Advantages: Small regional airport with limited United Express service to Houston and Denver. Parking is free.

San Angelo Regional Airport (SJT)
- Distance to City Center: 115 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)
- Best for: Travelers in the Concho Valley willing to drive to avoid Dallas/Fort Worth connections.
- Unique Advantages: Extremely small crowds, fast security, and service via American Eagle.

Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB)
- Distance to City Center: 120 miles (1 hour 55 minutes)
- Best for: Wider flight selection and larger aircraft.
- Unique Advantages: Serves as the larger hub for the South Plains. Offers nonstop flights to more destinations including Las Vegas and Denver on multiple carriers.

Midland Airport Overview

Midland International Air & Space Port bears the distinction of being the first primary commercial service airport in the United States to receive a spaceport license from the Federal Aviation Administration. This dual-use designation allows the airport to serve as a launch site for commercial space travel and high-altitude research, cementing its unique place in aviation history. The airport is located precisely halfway between the cities of Midland and Odessa, making it a critical piece of infrastructure for the entire Permian Basin oil and gas industry. Located roughly 10 miles southwest of downtown Midland and 10 miles northeast of downtown Odessa, the airport sits on approximately 1,600 acres. It operates as a public-use facility with no active military base component, though military charters occasionally utilize the field.

Midland Airport Postal Code

• Full Postal Code: 79706
• City: Midland
• State: Texas
• Country: United States
• Complete Mailing Address: 9506 La Force Blvd, Midland, TX 79706

Duty Free and Shopping at Midland Airport

Midland Airport does not offer traditional international duty-free shopping. The vast majority of flights departing MAF are domestic routes to hubs in Texas (Dallas, Houston) or regional destinations (Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas). Because there are no regularly scheduled international flights clearing customs at MAF, the airport does not maintain a duty-free retail zone.

Available Shops and Stores

• Midland News & Gifts: Located pre-security, offering magazines, snacks, and travel accessories.
• Permian Basin Marketplace: Located post-security, this shop features local artisan goods, oilfield-themed apparel, and West Texas souvenirs including pecans, salsas, and cowboy hats.

Dining Options

• Tall City Grill (Post-Security): A full-service bar and grill serving breakfast tacos, burgers, and Texas craft beers. Open from 5:00 AM until the last departure.
• Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Pre-Security): Located in the main lobby serving espresso drinks and pastries.

Shopping Tips
Since duty-free is not available, the best items to purchase here are local souvenirs that you won't find at your destination. The oilfield memorabilia and local hot sauces make excellent last-minute gifts.

Security Wait Times Midland Airport

Security wait times at MAF are generally among the shortest in the Texas airport system. Due to the relatively low volume of simultaneous flights, the TSA checkpoint rarely backs up beyond 5-10 minutes except during specific peak departure pushes.

Peak Travel Times
The busiest times at MAF security are Monday mornings from 5:30 AM to 7:00 AM (oilfield worker departures) and Thursday/Friday afternoons from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM (returning workers and weekend leisure travel). During these peaks, wait times can extend to 15-20 minutes. Outside these windows, it is common to walk directly to the TSA agent without any line. Holiday periods, specifically the weeks of July 4th and Christmas, see slightly elevated wait times.

Expedited Screening Programs
MAF features TSA PreCheck lanes. The PreCheck lane is open during peak morning hours and again in the afternoon. CLEAR is not currently available at this airport. Global Entry enrollment interviews are not conducted here; travelers must go to a designated enrollment center in a larger city.

Midland Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

• Departures Drop-Off Zone: Located on the upper level curb. Time limit is strictly enforced at 2 minutes for active unloading only. Vehicles cannot be left unattended.
• Arrivals Pick-Up Zone: Located on the lower level curb directly outside baggage claim. Time limit is 2 minutes for active loading. If your party is not curbside, you must circle or use the Cell Phone Lot.
• Cell Phone Lot: Located on La Force Boulevard upon entering the airport grounds. It offers free waiting, real-time flight info signage, and restroom facilities nearby.
• Kiss and Fly Zone: Not applicable; the free 30-minute grace period in the Close-In lot effectively serves this purpose.
• Commercial Vehicle Zones: Rideshare (TNC) pickup is in the designated Ground Transportation area of the Arrivals level. Taxis queue at the east end of the arrivals curb.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Midland Airport

Midland International Air & Space Port is served exclusively by regional and mainline operations of three major US carriers.

Primary Airlines

• Southwest Airlines: Operates from the main terminal. Offers nonstop flights to Dallas (Love Field), Houston (Hobby), Las Vegas, and Denver (seasonal).
• American Eagle: Operated by Envoy Air and SkyWest on behalf of American Airlines. Offers frequent daily service to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Phoenix (PHX).
• United Express: Operated by SkyWest and CommuteAir on behalf of United Airlines. Offers frequent daily service to Houston (IAH) and Denver (DEN).

Popular Domestic Destinations
The most popular nonstop routes are Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston, serving as the critical link for the energy sector. Las Vegas and Denver are popular for leisure.

International Flights
There are no scheduled international passenger flights. All international travel connects through the Texas hubs.

Flight Frequency
Flights to Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston depart approximately every 1-2 hours during peak business days.

Getting to and from Midland Airport

Renting a car is the most practical and efficient way to navigate Midland and the sprawling Permian Basin.

Car Rental at Midland Airport

All major rental car companies operate on-site within the terminal building. The rental car counters are located directly across from the baggage claim carousels on the lower level. You do not need a shuttle bus to reach your vehicle; the rental car lot is situated in a dedicated parking structure attached to the terminal via a short covered walkway.

Car Rental Companies Available

• Avis: +1 (432) 563-0910
• Budget: +1 (432) 563-0910
• Enterprise: +1 (432) 563-0911
• Hertz: +1 (432) 563-0912
• National: +1 (432) 561-5111
• Alamo: +1 (432) 561-5111

Vehicle Types and Regional Needs
Given the rugged terrain and vast distances of West Texas, a pickup truck or SUV is highly recommended for visitors planning to visit oilfield sites or drive out to places like Monahans Sandhills State Park. Standard economy cars and sedans are perfectly adequate for driving within Midland and Odessa city limits. 4x4 vehicles are available but not essential for highway driving.

👉 Book your rental car in advance: Midland is an oilfield town with extreme demand for rental vehicles. It is common for the rental fleet to sell out completely on weekdays. Pre-booking via our car rental comparison tool ensures you secure a vehicle upon arrival.

Midland Airport Taxi Services

Local taxis are available for hire without a prior reservation. Yellow Cab of Midland operates a stand at the east end of the arrivals curb. Fares are metered. A ride to Downtown Midland will cost approximately $35-$45. Payment by credit card is accepted in most vehicles, though it is wise to confirm with the driver before departing.

Private Car Services at Midland Airport

For a more premium experience, several private car and limousine companies operate by reservation. These services offer fixed rates and will meet you in baggage claim with a name sign. This is the best option for corporate executives or groups of 4-6 passengers traveling to the same drilling location or hotel.

Bus Services at Midland Airport

As noted earlier, EZ Rider public bus service does not provide convenient access to the airport terminal. There are no commercial intercity bus stops (Greyhound) at the airport; the nearest Greyhound station is in downtown Midland, approximately 10 miles away.

Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels in the Midland Loop 250 corridor offer complimentary airport shuttle service. These shuttles pick up on the lower level in the designated Commercial Lane. It is necessary to call your hotel upon arrival to request a pickup, as shuttles do not circulate continuously.

• Hotels with Shuttle: DoubleTree by Hilton Midland Plaza, Homewood Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, and Courtyard by Marriott.

Parking at Midland Airport

Parking at MAF is designed for maximum convenience. All lots are within walking distance of the terminal, eliminating the wait for shuttle buses common at larger airports.

• Short-Term / Hourly Parking: Covered Parking (C1) is the closest. Rate: $3.00 first hour / $15.00 max per day.
• Long-Term Parking: Close-In (P1/P3) offers a great balance of price and proximity. Rate: $12.00 per day.
• Economy Parking: Remote Economy (P5) is the cheapest on-site option. Rate: $7.00 per day.
• Payment Methods: Credit and debit cards are accepted at the exit plazas. Cash is accepted at the C1, P1, and P3 lots. P2, P4, P5, and C2 are credit/debit card only.
• EV Charging: Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the Covered Parking (C1) garage on a first-come, first-served basis.

Places to Explore Near Midland Airport

Midland is more than just an oil town; it's a cultural oasis in the high plains. With a rental car from MAF, you have the freedom to explore the entire Permian Basin.

• Downtown Midland (10 miles / 15 mins): Visit the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center, the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, and the George W. Bush Childhood Home.
• Odessa Meteor Crater (15 miles / 20 mins): The second-largest meteor crater in the United States. A fascinating geological stop just west of the airport.
• Stonehenge Replica (20 miles / 25 mins): Located on the UTPB campus in Odessa, this full-scale replica of Stonehenge is a quirky and free photo opportunity.
• Monahans Sandhills State Park (35 miles / 35 mins): A surreal landscape of rolling sand dunes up to 70 feet high. Perfect for sand surfing and sunset photography.
• Big Spring State Park (45 miles / 45 mins): Offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the West Texas plains from a 200-foot bluff.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Midland

Midland experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters.

• Spring (March - May): Temperatures range from 45°F to 80°F (7°C to 27°C). This is the most pleasant time to visit, though wind speeds can be high. Watch for occasional severe thunderstorms.
• Summer (June - August): Hot and dry. Highs average 95°F (35°C) but frequently exceed 100°F (38°C). Always carry water and ensure your rental car AC is working.
• Fall (September - November): Similar to spring with mild days and cool nights. Football season brings energy to the city.
• Winter (December - February): Highs average 60°F (15°C) with occasional cold snaps dropping into the 20s°F (-6°C). Snow is rare but ice storms on I-20 are possible.

Best Time to Visit: October offers the best combination of comfortable weather and clear skies for exploring the spaceport heritage and nearby parks.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival Time: Arrive 90 minutes before domestic departure. Security lines are short, but rental car returns and check-in are quick. Two hours is recommended for the 6:00 AM rush.
• Flight Status: Always check with your airline's app. MAF is a small field, but Houston and Dallas weather can cause ripple-effect delays.
• Packing Advice: Lightweight, breathable fabrics in summer; layers in winter. A sturdy pair of sunglasses and lip balm are essential year-round due to the arid climate.
• Currency & Cards: Midland is almost entirely cashless. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, including parking exits and airport concessions.
• Driver License Requirements: International visitors must present a valid foreign driver's license along with a passport. An International Driving Permit is recommended if the license is not in English.
• Fuel Stations: Do not wait to fill up at the airport. The nearest gas station is the 7-Eleven located at the corner of La Force Blvd and Tradewinds Blvd, just 1 mile from the terminal.

About the City

Midland was founded in 1881 as a railroad stop halfway between Fort Worth and El Paso—hence its name. The discovery of oil in the 1920s transformed it from a farming community into the administrative center of the Permian Basin, one of the most productive oil fields in the world. Today, the city boasts a population of approximately 140,000 in the city proper and over 350,000 in the broader metro area. The city is famous for its high concentration of millionaires per capita and its unique skyline of low-rise buildings punctuated by the tallest downtown building between Fort Worth and El Paso. Local cuisine is dominated by Tex-Mex and high-end steakhouses catering to the energy sector. Cultural attractions include the Midland County Historical Museum and the Haley Memorial Library. Midland serves as an excellent base for exploring West Texas, offering big-city dining and hotel amenities without the traffic of a major metropolis.

Start Your Journey at Midland Airport

Midland International Air & Space Port is more than just an entry point to West Texas; it is a stress-free alternative to the chaos of larger hubs. With lightning-fast security, walking-distance parking, and a rental car facility integrated into the terminal, your journey begins the moment you step off the plane. Whether you are here to close a deal in the oil patch or to explore the vast, beautiful emptiness of the Permian Basin, having your own vehicle is essential. Book your rental car with us in advance to lock in the best rates and guarantee availability during peak travel days. Secure your keys today and experience the Lone Star State on your own terms.