Quad City International Airport

Overview

Quad Cities International Airport (MLI) serves as the primary commercial aviation hub for the Illinois-Iowa Quad Cities region, which includes Moline, East Moline, and Rock Island in Illinois, along with Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa. Situated on the south side of Moline, the airport connects this vibrant Mississippi River community to major hubs across the United States. It is a relatively compact airport, designed for efficiency and ease of navigation, making it a convenient choice for both business travelers and tourists. The airport handles scheduled passenger service from several major airlines, offering flights to key connecting hubs such as Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, and Minneapolis–Saint Paul. With its focus on regional connectivity, Quad Cities International plays an essential role in supporting the local economy, which is anchored by manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare.

Location & Access

The airport is located at 2200 69th Avenue, Moline, Illinois, about four miles south of downtown Moline and just minutes from Interstate 74 and Interstate 280. Its geographic position places it within a 30-minute drive of all major Quad Cities communities, including Davenport (Iowa), Rock Island (Illinois), Bettendorf (Iowa), and East Moline (Illinois). For travelers coming from outside the immediate area, the airport is roughly a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Chicago and about three hours from Des Moines, Iowa. Access by car is straightforward: take Exit 4A from I-280 or follow 69th Avenue directly to the terminal. The airport provides a well-signed entrance and ample parking options. Public transit connections are available via the local Quad Cities MetroLINK bus system, which operates Route 20 to the airport terminal. Ride-hailing services and taxis are also common, and several rental car agencies maintain on-site counters.

Facilities

Quad Cities International Airport offers a range of passenger facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. The terminal is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. Passengers with mobility needs can request assistance from airline staff. The airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, allowing travelers to stay connected. For families, the restrooms include changing tables, making it easier to travel with infants or toddlers. On-site services include a variety of dining and retail options, though specific concessions may vary seasonally. The airport also operates a paid parking lot with both short-term and long-term spaces; rates are reasonable compared to larger metropolitan airports. Travelers should note that peak traffic times typically occur around 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., when several flights arrive and depart in succession. The airport is not open 24 hours; hours of operation vary by day, so it is advisable to check the schedule for your specific travel date. For detailed inquiries, you can contact the airport directly at +1 309-757-1768 or visit the official website: https://www.qcairport.com/.

About the Region

The Quad Cities region derives its name from the five adjacent cities—Moline, Rock Island, East Moline (Illinois), and Davenport, Bettendorf (Iowa)—that form a single metropolitan area straddling the Mississippi River. This area is historically significant as the birthplace of the John Deere company, which continues to have extensive manufacturing operations here. The region’s identity is closely tied to the river and its agricultural heartland. Visitors come for attractions such as the John Deere Pavilion, the Figge Art Museum, the Putnam Museum, and the Quad Cities River Bandits baseball games. The area is also known for its scenic riverfront parks, biking trails along the Mississippi, and annual events like the Quad Cities Airshow and the Bix 7 road race. Economically, the region remains a center for manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, with a growing focus on riverfront development and tourism. The airport serves not only these local travelers but also those visiting nearby colleges, such as St. Ambrose University and Augustana College, as well as corporate travelers linked to area businesses.

Practical Information

• Airport Code: MLI (ICAO: KMLI)
• Address: 2200 69th Avenue, Moline, IL 61265, USA
• Phone: +1 309-757-1768
• Website: https://www.qcairport.com/
• Parking: Paid lot with short-term and long-term options. Daily and hourly rates apply.
• Hours: The terminal is not open every day; check the website for current hours. Peak activity occurs in the mid-afternoon (3–4 p.m.).
• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet available throughout the terminal.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible parking, entrances, and restrooms. Service animals accommodated.
• Nearby Hotels: Several options within a few miles, including chains like Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn Express. Some offer airport shuttle services.

For the most current flight information, security wait times, and any service changes, always refer to the official airport website or mobile app.