Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport sits on the northeastern edge of Amarillo, Texas, serving the Texas Panhandle with a single terminal building. It handles roughly 700,000 passengers annually, making it a midsize regional airport that punches above its weight in terms of efficiency and convenience. Named after the late astronaut Rick Husband, who commanded the ill-fated Space Shuttle Columbia mission, the airport reflects the pragmatic, hardworking character of the region it serves. It is the primary gateway for travelers heading to Palo Duro Canyon, Route 66, and the vast agricultural and energy landscapes of the High Plains.

Getting There

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport is located about 10 miles east of downtown Amarillo, off Airport Boulevard. The drive takes roughly 15 minutes via I-40 or US-60, depending on traffic. Most visitors arrive by private car or taxi, as public transit options are limited. Amarillo City Transit bus Route 6 connects downtown to the airport, but service is infrequent and requires a transfer; it is not recommended for time-sensitive travelers. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, with fares from downtown averaging $15-$25. Taxis are available at the terminal, but advance booking is advisable for early morning flights. Parking is straightforward: a free long-term lot sits adjacent to the terminal, as well as paid parking options including a multi-story car park. The free lot is a short walk to the terminal, while the paid lots offer closer access. For those renting a car, all major agencies have counters inside the terminal.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport is compact and functional. A single-level concourse serves all gates, eliminating the need for trams or long walks. Check-in counters and baggage claim are on the main floor, with security screening located centrally. The airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, and charging stations are available near most seating areas. Restrooms are equipped with wheelchair-accessible toilets and changing tables. A small convenience shop and a snack bar operate past security, but dining options are limited — it is wise to eat before arriving or pack snacks. Passengers can store luggage at the baggage storage facility (subject to availability). The busiest times are Monday at noon and Tuesday through Thursday around 1 pm, so expect longer lines at security during those windows. The atmosphere is quiet and unhurried, with staff known for being helpful. Wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and ramps make the terminal easy to navigate for mobility-impaired travelers. Flight information displays are clear, and announcements are audible throughout. On departure, plan to arrive 60 to 90 minutes before domestic flights; 90 minutes is sufficient given the airport's size.

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport and Amarillo

Amarillo itself is the heart of the Texas Panhandle, a city built on cattle, oil, and the open road. The airport’s name honors Rick Husband, a native Texan and NASA astronaut — a reminder of the region’s contributions beyond ranching and energy. For travelers, Amarillo offers a surprisingly diverse set of attractions. The most famous is the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation of ten Cadillacs buried nose-down in a field along I-40. It is free, accessible 24/7, and a quintessential roadside stop. Another natural wonder is Palo Duro Canyon State Park, just 25 miles south of the city. The second-largest canyon in the United States, it offers hiking, biking, and camping amid dramatic red rock formations. Amarillo also sits on the historic Route 66, and the city’s “Original Route 66” segment still has vintage motels and diners. The Big Texan Steak Ranch, home of the 72-ounce steak challenge, is a landmark that draws road-trippers and tourists. For history buffs, the Amarillo Museum of Art and the Texas Panhandle War Memorial provide deeper context. The city’s economy is tied to agriculture (cattle feedlots, grain elevators) and energy (wind farms, natural gas). Visitors often comment on the flat, endless horizon and big skies — the same that inspired the name “West Texas.” The airport is thus not just a transit point but a portal to a distinctive American landscape. Seasonal events like the Tri-State Fair and the Amarillo Symphony add to the cultural calendar. While the airport itself lacks the frills of larger hubs, its location provides easy access to these regional experiences.

Practical Information

The airport is open daily, but operating hours align with flight schedules. Typically, the terminal opens about 90 minutes before the first departure and closes after the last arrival. For exact times, check the website at http://fly-ama.com/ or call +1 806-335-1671. Confirm days of operation — while the airport is nominally open every day, some services (like baggage storage or the snack bar) may have limited hours. Parking is ample: the free lot is ideal for longer stays, while the paid car park is closer to the terminal. Wi-Fi is complimentary and reliable. There are no hotels on-site, but several chain hotels are located within a mile on Airport Boulevard. For a smooth experience, arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights — security lines are rarely long but can swell during peak times (Mondays noon, Tuesdays 1 pm, etc.). If you have connecting flights, note that Amarillo is primarily a point-to-point airport with flights to Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Houston, and Las Vegas (among others). One final tip: if you are renting a car, book in advance because weekend availability can be tight, especially during hunting season or major events like the Tri-State Fair.