Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Welcome

For an airport of its size, Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) feels strangely akin to a corporate shuttle hub, pivotal to business travelers bound for nearby Bentonville, the headquarters for Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt. The airport bustles with early-morning flights catering to business guests, shaping a fast-paced rhythm that even frequent flyers acknowledge for its unique Arkansas flair. Unlike the anonymous monotony of chain restaurants you'd find at other regional airports, XNA serves local delights like Slim Chickens and Core Brewing Company, offering a distinct taste of Arkansas right from the terminal.

At a glance

Serving approximately 1.6 million passengers every year, XNA handles its traffic with a single runway and one Main Terminal comprising twelve gates. While it’s not a hub for any airline, it’s frequented by big names like American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Allegiant Air. Situated about 17 miles northwest of Fayetteville, and 12 miles northwest of Springdale, its strategic location plays into the corporate travel tendency, predominantly attracting travelers from companies headquartered nearby.

Terminals & layout

All operations are housed under the Main Terminal. This compact arrangement makes navigating through check-in, security, and boarding relatively straightforward except during the notorious early-morning peak hours. Amenities are well-spread across the Main Terminal, ensuring services are within easy reach. However, it can still feel bustling due to the specific business traffic patterns, especially in the rush banks from 5–7 a.m.

Getting to and from the city

Accessibility is fairly straightforward with several transport options at your disposal. Whether opting for a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or securing a car rental, options are abundant. The ride-share pick-up zone and taxi queues are conveniently located outside. If you prefer public transport, private hotel shuttles and rental car shuttles offer additional flexibility. The drive to and from Fayetteville or Springdale is a short one, taking roughly 20-25 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Traveller essentials

The airport's parking policy offers various options — from Short-Term Parking at $20/day to more economical solutions like Long Term Parking at $12/day, and Economy Parking available at $8/day. The latter being the most budget-friendly for longer visits. An EV charging facility is available on the second and third levels of the Parking Deck, catering to the increasing number of electric vehicle users.

Dining & shopping highlights

While limited in scale, the dining options present a slice of Arkansas culture. The beloved Slim Chickens offers hearty meals known to satiate even the largest appetites. Smokewood American Grill is a winner for those craving smoked meats and a sit-down meal, while Core Brewing Company gives travelers a shot at sampling local craft beers. If you're in the mood for a coffee, Onyx Coffee Lab provides a caffeine kick with its high-quality espresso-based drinks. For shopping, Say Si Bon! Gourmet Market is a quieter spot compared to the busier outlets, offering a diverse selection of snacks and souvenirs.

Lounges

Though XNA lacks a conventional airline lounge, the Escape Lounges-operated space by Core Brewing and Smokewood offers a quasi-lounge experience. For a walk-up price of $60, or an advance booking price of $45, travelers can enjoy comfortable seating, decent Wi-Fi, and a limited food menu. Still, experienced travelers miss more traditional options like Admirals Club or Delta Sky Club, which are common in similarly-sized airports.

Insider tips

• Insider: XNA’s peak congestion moments are during the 5–7 a.m. departure window, propelling locals to suggest arriving at least 2 hours early for these flights.
• Avoid: If you're on a tight schedule, be aware that late-evening service is limited, with slower baggage claim and fewer dining options.
• Local: Slim Chickens serves up generous portions, making it a favored send-off meal for locals and a must-try Arkansas staple.
• Money: Economy parking at $8/day is both budget-friendly and only about 900 feet from the terminal, making it a local favorite unless weather deters you.
• Quiet: Bypass the busiest areas by grabbing snacks at Say Si Bon! Gourmet Market, known for shorter lines and a quieter atmosphere.
• Insider: The indoor pet relief area near Gate A2 is highly appreciated by pet owners, especially during weather-related delays.
• Time: EV users should target Parking Deck levels 2 or 3 for charging before or after their flights.