Perhaps the first thing to know about Albany International Airport, commonly referred to by its IATA code ALB, is that it’s not in the city of Albany. It is in Albany County, in the town of Colonie, about eight miles outside the Albany city limits. 

It’s also good to know that ALB is not only a gateway to Albany, the Capital District, and the Adirondacks but also a great alternative to the New York City airports if you’re planning to spend time enjoying destinations north of the five boroughs. Below, we’ll explain why, walk you through the airport, and suggest some layover adventures.

Why You Should Fly into ALB Over NYC Airports

Navigating airports can be the most stressful part of a trip. That’s especially true when flying into or out of New York City’s two major airports, JFK and LaGuardia. Both are sprawling, with multiple terminals, and very (very!) crowded: JFK clocks more than 60 million passengers a year, with LaGuardia tallying over 33 million.

Albany International Airport, on the other hand, has just one terminal and receives a more modest 1.5 million passengers annually. That translates to faster check-in and shorter security lines. Parking is much easier too, and the drive between ALB and Albany is quick and simple, something nobody has ever said about driving in and out of LaGuardia or JFK. All of this leaves you more relaxed, with more time to enjoy New York State.

Albany International Airport Airlines and Destinations

Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United are among the major airlines that travel nonstop from ALB to major U.S. cities. The airport has a webpage where you can track the arrival and departure status of the day’s flights.

Navigating the Airport

With just one passenger terminal, Albany International Airport is a cinch to navigate. Concourse A has six gates, serving Allegiant and United; it’s scheduled to undergo improvements in 2026. American, Delta, and JetBlue fly out of Concourse B’s nine gates, and Concourse C’s three gates serve Southwest and Breeze. The recently added business center is also in Concourse C.

A new play center, dubbed Adirondack Imaginarium, and a soothing sensory room next to it contribute to ALB’s ease of use. Nervous flyers and canine lovers will appreciate the therapy dogs that volunteers walk along the concourses. And as the first U.S. airport to achieve Level 3 in ACI World's Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation, ALB offers numerous amenities for travelers with disabilities. In addition, Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.

Arriving and Checking In 

The ticketing desks for all airlines are on the first floor of ALB’s passenger terminal, as are self-service check-in kiosks. After checking in and, if necessary, dropping off your luggage, you’ll proceed upstairs to the TSA checkpoint. Travelers with TSA PreCheck typically whisk through security in less than 10 minutes, while going through standard security usually takes less than a half-hour. That said, delays can occur, especially during peak travel times, so the TSA suggests arriving two hours before your domestic flight to be safe. And all travelers need to have a REAL ID or an equivalent form of identification; visit the TSA’s website for details.

Baggage and Departures

When flying into Albany Airport, you’ll find the three baggage claim carousels on the terminal’s first floor. Just a few steps farther is an information desk, and beyond that the doors to outside, where you’ll find designated pickup spots for Lyft, Uber, taxis, buses, and hotel shuttles. 

Parking and Rental Car Options

Albany International Airport offers short-term parking ($2/hour) and long-term parking ($12/day) lots as well as the North and South indoor parking garages ($18/day), all just a short walk to the terminal. The long-term lot and garages have a limited number of free electric vehicle charging stations. A little farther away is the economy parking lot ($7/day), which connects to the terminal via a shuttle bus that runs 24 hours a day. For more information visit the ALB parking page.

Those renting a car to explore the Capital Region will find the counters for Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, and Hertz just beyond the baggage claim area on the first floor of the terminal. Visit the ALB car rental page for details.

Hotels Near Albany International Airport

A number of hotels are within minutes of the airport. Below are a few choice picks, all of which offer complimentary airport shuttles.

Looking for hotels in downtown Albany? You’ll find plenty to choose from in just about every price range. For a truly special experience, consider The Morgan State House and Washington Park Inn, each located in a refurbished 1884 mansion, or the luxury Renaissance Albany Hotel.

Regional Transportation Options

Trailways bus line travels from the airport to downtown Albany, Glens Falls, Lake George, and Saratoga Springs, among other destinations. Vermont Translines connects ALB to multiple points in Vermont, including Bennington and Burlington, and several local CDTA routes service the airport.

Those who want to travel on to New York City can fly to LaGuardia Airport via Delta, take the Premiere Shuttle to LaGuardia or JFK Airport, or hop on a Trailways bus to the Port Authority (with a transfer at the Albany Trailways Bus Terminal).

Best Spots for a Bite to Eat Near Albany International Airport

Whether you need replenishment after your flight or want to grab a quick bite before arriving at ALB, you’ll find numerous options. Below are a few that are typically less than a 10-minute drive from the airport.

Don Tequila Mexican Cantina. This family-friendly spot offers a gamut of burritos, quesadillas, tacos, and fajitas, along with vegan and vegetarian options. 

Galleria 7 Market. Can’t decide between pizza, ramen, or burgers? At this food hall, you don’t have to. Vendors include Dotty Lou’s BBQ, Falafel Express, and Kobe Hibachi. 

Innovo Kitchen. You’ll find hearty meals and light nibbles alike at this gastropub. Crispy confit chicken wings, ahi tuna salad, and crispy-skin salmon are among the menu highlights.

Quick Layover Adventures

Have time before your flight for some last-minute fun? The suggestions below are all within 15 minutes of Albany International Airport.

Colonie Center. A budget-friendly mix of brands and everyday retailers, this mall also has numerous eateries, an indoor playground, and a 13-screen movie theater.

Dick’s House of Sport. More than a sporting-goods store, Dick’s features a climbing wall, a batting cage, a golf simulator, and even golf lessons. 

Pine Bush Preserve. This 3,400-acre preserve offers 20 miles of hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and snowshoeing trails. There’s also the Discovery Center with interactive exhibits for kids and adults alike. 

Shaker Heritage Society and Ann Lee Pond Nature Preserve. Ann Lee established the first U.S. colony of the Shakers, an egalitarian Christian sect, here in 1774. Nine buildings—including the museum in what had been the meeting house—remain, along with a cemetery, an herb garden, an apple orchard, and the nature preserve.

Fly into Albany International Airport Year-Round

Many visitors associate the Capital Region with snow. While there’s a lot of fun to be had here in winter (ice skating, skiing, snowboarding) Albany and its surroundings are equally wonderful to visit in autumn, thanks in large part to the spectacular fall foliage. Spring and summer offer plenty to see and do as well, including the Capital Wine Festival, the Tulip Festival, and the Art on Lark Street fair, among many other events. 

For more details on airlines, flights, and more, check the Albany International Airport website for up-to-date information.