Anderson Regional Airport

Anderson Regional Airport sits three miles south of downtown Anderson, South Carolina, serving the Upstate region with a single runway and a compact terminal. The airport primarily handles general aviation, charter flights, and occasional cargo operations, making it a convenient option for private pilots and business travelers who value efficiency over frills. It is not a hub for scheduled commercial airlines, but its location near I-85 and proximity to Greenville and Clemson mean it functions as a practical entry point for those flying into the area on corporate jets or small aircraft. The terminal is open daily during posted hours, and the atmosphere is calm — no long security lines, no crowded gates, just straightforward access to the runway.

Getting There

Anderson Regional Airport is located at 150 Death Valley Road, Anderson, SC 29625, just off South Carolina Highway 81. From downtown Anderson, the drive is approximately 7 minutes via River Street and SC-81 South. From Interstate 85, take Exit 19 (SC-81) and head south for about 3 miles; the airport entrance is on the left. Parking is free and ample, with spots directly in front of the terminal. If you are coming from Clemson (10 miles northeast) or Greenville (30 miles north), the drive takes 15 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Anderson, but availability can be limited outside peak hours — it is wise to call ahead or schedule a pickup. Taxis are available but not abundant; the airport does not have a dedicated taxi stand, so arranging transport in advance is recommended. For those driving, the airport is easily accessible from major roads and has a well-maintained parking lot that rarely fills up.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Anderson Regional Airport is small but functional. Upon entering, passengers find a single check-in counter (usually staffed for charter flights), a waiting area with basic seating, and a flight planning room for pilots. The building is wheelchair-accessible, with an accessible entrance, car park, and restroom — all confirmed facilities. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, though speeds are adequate for email and web browsing, not streaming. There are restrooms (including a wheelchair-accessible toilet) but no food or beverage concessions, so bring snacks and water. The atmosphere is low-key; you will not find shops, lounges, or extensive signage. Security is minimal — no TSA checkpoints for general aviation, though charter flights may have their own procedures. Passengers should be prepared to handle their own luggage and may need to coordinate directly with their pilot or flight operator. Overall, the terminal serves its purpose without unnecessary fuss, but travelers accustomed to larger airports should adjust expectations.

Anderson Regional Airport and Anderson

Anderson is a city of about 28,000 people in Upstate South Carolina, situated along the shores of Lake Hartwell. The airport plays a key role in connecting the area to the broader business and recreational community. Anderson has a strong industrial base — companies like Bosch, BorgWarner, and Michelin have facilities here — which drives significant corporate air traffic. The airport also supports tourism tied to Lake Hartwell, one of the Southeast's largest man-made lakes, offering boating, fishing, and lakeside getaways. Nearby Clemson University (home to Clemson Tigers sports) brings visitors for games, especially football weekends when commercial airports in Greenville and Spartanburg can be crowded. The city itself has a historic downtown with brick-lined streets, local shops, and restaurants like The Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill and Summa Joe's. The Anderson County Museum and the Electric City Playhouse (a nod to Anderson's early adoption of electric power) offer cultural attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, the lake and nearby parks (such as Sadlers Creek State Park) provide ample recreation. The airport, while modest, is a vital link for this community — it allows residents to fly in and out without the hassle of larger hubs, and it gives visitors direct access to a region that blends Southern charm with modern industry.

Practical Information

Anderson Regional Airport is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (hours may vary; check the website for current times). The airport is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Contact the airport office at +1 864-260-4163 or visit https://www.andersoncountysc.org/airport for more details. There are no rental car agencies on site, but major companies operate in Anderson and can drop off vehicles. Fuel for aircraft is available (both Avgas and Jet-A), but there is no gas station for cars at the airport. The parking lot is free and well-lit. For flights, you must arrange charters or aircraft access independently — the airport does not operate scheduled flights. One concrete piece of advice: bring a fully charged phone and pack a small snack, because once you arrive at the terminal, there is no place to buy food or drinks, and the nearest convenience store is a mile away.