Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport

Welcome

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) captures the essence of calm travel, offering the convenience of a compact, low-stress environment. Located just six miles east of downtown Amarillo, this airport allows travelers to enjoy short walks and modest crowds, making it feel more like a regional outpost than a bustling hub. The trade-off? Fewer dining and shopping options. Optimize your trip by arriving prepared, treating the airport as a speedy stopover rather than a place to linger.

At a glance

With only 0.72 million passengers annually, AMA is a small but efficient airport serving a few major carriers like American Eagle, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. It boasts two runways and a single terminal with seven gates. Despite the limited food and shopping options, travelers often praise its efficiency and short walks.

Terminals & layout

AMA's single terminal is a straightforward affair, hosting seven gates that efficiently handle the airport's modest traffic. With no additional terminals to navigate, travelers can appreciate the ease of not having to trek between multiple buildings. The terminal setup facilitates quick connections, making it ideal for regional travel within Texas.

Getting to and from the city

Rick Husband Amarillo International is conveniently positioned just six miles from downtown Amarillo. Options for reaching the city include several car rental services, such as Avis, Alamo, Enterprise, and National, all stationed at the airport. Local taxi services, including A & M Taxi and AA Discount Cab, offer alternative ground transport. Limited rideshare options suggest that planning ahead for transportation can save you time.

Traveller essentials

Parking at AMA provides different price points: the Parking Garage charges $14 per day, while outdoor lots are more economical at $10 per day. Valet Parking offers flexibility with rates between $8 to $10 per day. Accessible parking is available, although specifics on pricing weren't detailed.

Expect to clear security quickly, though on less busy days, the checkpoint can move slowly. Following the airport’s advice by arriving 1.5 hours before departure can help manage any last-minute hiccups.

Dining & shopping highlights

Dining choices are sparse, so plan accordingly. There are eight eateries, including THE RANCH Kitchen & Cocktails and 806 Cafe. If you're in a rush, grab a quick bite at Qdoba or Dunkin’ Donuts. Shopping is likewise limited, with Paradies Shops, Texas Marketplace, and CNBC News offering the essentials.

Lounges

Unfortunately, AMA does not host any lounges. Business travelers or those seeking respite may need to make do with a quiet corner or grab a coffee and snack at one of the limited dining options.

Insider tips

• Insider: AMA's efficient baggage claim is a highlight of the airport, often praised for its speed, comparable to larger Texas airports.
• Time: Plan your arrival around the airport's explicit ticket-counter hours to avoid check-in stress, especially for same-day flights.
• Avoid: Keep checked bags easy to close; overstuffed luggage is prone to delays per the airport's guidelines.
• Quiet: Utilize the limited but comfortable children's area if you're traveling with kids and need a break.
• Local: Look for Dunkin’ and Cinnabon, which might be overlooked if you rely only on official airport info for dining options.
• Money: Consider valet parking for a budget-friendly option compared to the $14 daily garage rate.
• Time: Ensure liquids exceeding 3-1-1 rules are checked—security stresses before check-in prevents repacking delays.
• Avoid: Unwrap gifts prior to travel to avoid inspections or delays at security.