Scott AFB/Midamerica Airport

1. Overview

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (IATA: BLV) is a public airport located in Mascoutah, Illinois, approximately 20 miles east of downtown St. Louis. It serves as a secondary commercial airport for the St. Louis metropolitan area and is also the civilian partner of Scott Air Force Base, sharing runways and airspace under a joint-use agreement. The airport primarily hosts low-cost carriers and charter flights, offering an alternative to the larger Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. Passengers using MidAmerica typically come from the eastern side of the St. Louis region, southern Illinois, and parts of Missouri, seeking quicker access with fewer crowds and easier parking. The airport handles scheduled passenger service, cargo operations, and general aviation, with a focus on domestic routes. Its passenger terminal is compact and designed for efficiency, making it a stress-free option for those flying out of the area.

2. Location & Access

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport sits in St. Clair County, Illinois, within the village of Mascoutah. The address is 7027 MidAmerica Boulevard, Mascoutah, IL 62258. The airport is situated adjacent to Interstate 64, which provides direct road access from both Illinois and Missouri. For drivers coming from St. Louis, take I-64 east to exit 19A (Illinois 4 South) and follow signs to the terminal. From other parts of Illinois, I-64 or Illinois Route 161 lead to the airport. Parking is available on-site with both short-term and long-term lots located just steps from the terminal entrance. The airport is wheelchair-accessible, with designated parking spaces and ramps.

Public transportation options are limited. While there is no direct rail or bus link to the airport, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, and several local taxi companies provide service. Rental car agencies have counters inside the terminal, offering vehicles for those who need to drive to or from the airport. For passengers coming from out of town, the airport is roughly a 30-minute drive from downtown St. Louis and about 45 minutes from St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

3. Facilities

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. The terminal is fully wheelchair-accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilets. Baggage storage is available for passengers who need to stow luggage temporarily. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal, allowing travellers to stay connected. The restrooms include changing tables for families with infants. Peak travel hours are around 9 am and 10 am, so planning to arrive earlier or later can help avoid crowds. The airport also has a small food and beverage concession, though options may be limited; it is advisable to bring snacks if you have specific dietary needs. The terminal's compact size means short walking distances between check-in, security, and gates.

4. About the Region

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport serves the eastern region of the St. Louis metropolitan area, as well as the broader southern Illinois region known as the Metro East. This area is characterized by rolling farmland, historic small towns, and proximity to the Mississippi River. St. Louis itself is a major cultural and economic hub, famous for the Gateway Arch, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, the St. Louis Zoo, and numerous museums. The airport provides a convenient entry point for visitors attending events in St. Louis, such as Cardinals baseball games or conventions. Additionally, the region around Mascoutah offers attractions like the Scott Air Force Base Museum, the Mascoutah Heritage Museum, and outdoor recreation at nearby lakes and parks. Many passengers use MidAmerica to visit family in the region or for business trips related to the military base and local industries.

5. Practical Information

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport is not open 24 hours a day; it operates during specific hours aligned with flight schedules. It is advisable to check the airport's website or contact staff for exact opening times on your travel date. The airport can be reached by phone at +1 618-566-5200, and its official website is http://www.flymidamerica.com/, where you can find flight information, parking details, and terminal services. Security procedures follow standard TSA guidelines. Since the airport is smaller than major hubs, passengers should allow at least one hour before domestic flights and two hours for international charters. The airport lacks on-site hotels, but several accommodations are available in nearby cities like Belleville, O'Fallon, and Mascoutah. For those flying out, the combination of easy road access, free parking with no shuttle required, and a straightforward terminal makes MidAmerica St. Louis Airport a practical choice for avoiding the congestion of larger airports.