Albert J Ellis Airport

Albert J Ellis Airport sits roughly 10 miles northwest of Jacksonville, North Carolina, in the small town of Richlands. It is the primary commercial airport for the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps base and the surrounding coastal region, offering direct flights to Charlotte and Atlanta via American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The terminal is a modest single-story building that handles fewer than 100,000 passengers annually, which means crowds are minimal and the experience is straightforward. Despite its small size, the airport provides essential amenities and a relaxed pace that larger hubs cannot match.

Getting There

Albert J Ellis Airport is located at 264 Albert J Ellis Airport Road, Richlands, NC 28574. The most direct route from Jacksonville is via NC-24 West, a drive of about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. From Wilmington, take US-17 North to NC-24 West, a journey of approximately 50 miles (about an hour). There is no direct public transit to the airport. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but availability can be limited during off-peak hours. Taxis are available through local companies, but booking in advance is recommended. For those driving, the airport has a paid parking lot with reasonable daily rates. The lot is a short walk from the terminal entrance. Rental car counters are inside the terminal, with major agencies represented.

Inside the Terminal

On arrival, passengers enter a compact but efficient space. The check-in area has a few desks for American Airlines and Delta, plus self-service kiosks. Security is handled by TSA, and the checkpoint typically moves quickly due to low passenger volumes—wait times rarely exceed 15 minutes. Past security, the departure lounge offers seating, vending machines, and a small café with snacks and drinks. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal free of charge. Restrooms are clean and include wheelchair-accessible toilets and changing tables. The entire terminal is wheelchair-accessible, including the entrance and car park. There are no gates with jet bridges; passengers walk across the tarmac to board. Luggage carousels are located near the exit on the ground floor. Be aware that the terminal closes between flights; it does not operate 24 hours. The busiest times are Monday at 1 pm, Tuesday at 11 am, Wednesday at 2 pm, and Thursday at 1 pm—arrive early if traveling during those windows.

Albert J Ellis Airport and Richlands

The airport's location in Richlands might seem surprising until you consider its role: it serves the large military population of Camp Lejeune and the coastal communities of Onslow County. Richlands itself is a small town of about 3,000 people, known for its quiet, laid-back character. The town was founded in the 18th century and has a historic district with a few antebellum buildings. However, most travelers heading to this region are bound for Jacksonville or the beaches. The nearby coastal attractions include Topsail Island, with its pristine beaches and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. The Croatan National Forest offers hiking, fishing, and kayaking in a unique coastal ecosystem. For history enthusiasts, the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial in Wilmington is within driving distance. The airport itself is a gateway for military personnel and families traveling to and from Camp Lejeune, as well as tourists visiting the Crystal Coast. The terminal often displays military-themed artwork, reflecting the community's support for the base. Despite its small size, the airport handles a significant amount of military charter traffic and occasional private jets. The surrounding area is primarily rural, with farmland and forests. If you have a long layover, there is little to do within walking distance. Plan to bring your own entertainment or take a short drive to Jacksonville for dining and shopping.

Practical Information

The airport is open only during flight times. Hours vary by day, but generally the terminal opens about 90 minutes before the first departure and closes after the last arrival. Check the website for current schedules: https://flyoaj.com. Phone number: +1 910-324-1100. Parking: paid lot with automated pay stations. Credit cards accepted. Daily maximum is around $10. There are no hotels on airport grounds, but several chain hotels are located in Jacksonville, a 15-minute drive away. The airport has no ATM—bring cash if needed. The café accepts cards. One concrete piece of advice: Arrive at least 90 minutes before a domestic departure. Even though the airport is small, the TSA checkpoint may have limited staffing, and though it moves fast, it's better to have time for the café or to wait. If you have a connecting flight in Charlotte or Atlanta, give yourself at least 90 minutes for the connection because the smaller aircraft used may cause delays.