Rutland - Southern Vermont Regional Airport

Overview

Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport (RUT) is a publicly owned regional airport serving the greater Rutland area and southern Vermont. Located in the town of North Clarendon, just south of Rutland city, it primarily accommodates general aviation, charter flights, and limited scheduled commercial services. The airport is a key gateway for visitors to the Green Mountains, particularly those heading to ski resorts like Killington and Pico Mountain, as well as business travellers and residents of the region. With a single asphalt runway and a modern terminal building, RUT offers a straightforward, low-stress travel experience compared to larger hubs. It is operated by the state of Vermont and serves as an important link for the local economy, especially during peak tourism seasons.

Location & Access

The airport is situated at 115 Airport Road in North Clarendon, roughly 5 miles (8 km) south of downtown Rutland. Rutland is the second-largest city in Vermont and a central hub for the state's southwestern region. From Rutland, drivers can reach the airport in about 10 minutes via US-7 south, then turning onto Airport Road. The airport is also accessible from Vermont Route 103, which connects to major highways such as US-4 and US-7.

For those coming from outside the immediate area, the airport is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Albany, New York, and about 2 hours from Burlington, Vermont. Boston is roughly 3 hours away, and New York City is about 4.5 hours by car. There is no direct public transit to the airport; visitors typically arrive by personal vehicle, rental car, or taxi/rideshare. The terminal has a compact parking lot with both short-term and long-term spaces, including designated accessible spots. Given the airport's size, walking from parking to the terminal is minimal.

Facilities

Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport offers essential amenities for a smooth passenger experience. The terminal building is equipped with clean, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, including a dedicated accessible toilet. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing travellers to stay connected while waiting. There is also a general waiting area with seating. The airport features a wheelchair-accessible car park with accessible routes to the entrance. Additionally, a small snack vending machine is typically available near the check-in area. For passengers requiring assistance, the airport staff can be reached via the listed phone number. Note that there is no full-service restaurant or duty-free shop; travellers should plan accordingly. Peak traffic tends to occur around 11 am and 3 pm, so arriving early during those times is advisable.

About the Region

The Rutland area is deeply rooted in Vermont's natural landscape. Known as the "Heart of Vermont," Rutland County is surrounded by the Green Mountain National Forest and the Taconic Range. The region is famous for outdoor recreation, especially skiing and snowboarding. Killington Resort, one of the largest ski areas in the eastern United States, is just 20 minutes from the airport, while Pico Mountain is even closer. In summer, hiking, mountain biking, and leaf-peeping draw tourists to the area. The Long Trail, a 272-mile footpath, passes nearby.

Rutland itself has a historic downtown with 19th-century architecture, local breweries, and cultural venues like the Paramount Theatre. The region also has a strong agricultural tradition, with maple syrup production and dairy farms. The airport serves as a convenient alternative to larger airports, especially for those heading directly to the ski slopes or attending events at the nearby Vermont State Fairgrounds.

Practical Information

• Airport Code: RUT
• Address: 115 Airport Road, North Clarendon, VT 05759
• Phone: +1 802-786-8881
• Website: http://flyrutlandvt.com/
• Hours: The airport is not open every day; check the official website for current operating days and hours. Generally, the terminal opens shortly before scheduled flights and may close when no traffic is expected. It is advisable to confirm opening times, especially during off-peak seasons.
• Parking: Free parking is available on-site in a well-lit lot. Spaces include accessible options.
• Transportation: Rental cars can be booked from agencies in Rutland, but there is no rental counter at the airport. Taxis and rideshare services are available by pre-arrangement.

For flight bookings and updates, passengers should contact their airline directly. The airport website provides links to current scheduled service providers, which may vary seasonally.