Williston, United States
Comprehensive guide to Williston Basin International Airport (XWA) in Williston, ND. Learn about location, amenities, parking, and the Bakken region's attractions.
12 features verified at Williston Basin International Airport
Typical foot-traffic by hour, sourced from Google. Live conditions may differ.
Busiest on Mondays around 2 pm — usually as busy as it gets.
TSA will 100% of the time want you to empty your bag and question anything and everything you have. They may enjoy looking at men's underwear. Federal government says you dont have to take your shoes off anymore. Not in Williston! Do you have a camera? Oh no. Magnetic mount for it? They are terrified of it. Dumbest TSA in the country.
Small but very clean. This was our first time at this airport and we had questions but could not find anyone to help us. When one of the employees showed up she said "sorry we were all on lunch". Understandable but maybe put a sign so us newbies are aware and don't feel lost not knowing if someone is going to show up or not.
I don't travel often but I'm sure it shouldn't be this difficult. It's not necessarily the airports fault, I suppose it's the airlines employees. Incompetence sums it up. I will never fly with united again. I suggest to everyone considering flying from Williston, not to. Do yourself a favor and drive to Minot.
Very kind and pleasant workers, easy to get through the lines. One thing to keep in mind is the TSA line and bag drop/check in only open approximately 90 minutes prior to the flight. Beautifully decorated and easy to maneuver airport.
Williston Basin International Airport (XWA) serves as the primary commercial air gateway for northwestern North Dakota, particularly the city of Williston and the surrounding Bakken oil fields. Opened in 2019 to replace the aging Sloulin Field, the airport was built to accommodate the region's surge in energy-related travel and to provide a modern, efficient facility for both business and leisure passengers. The airport handles scheduled flights from major carriers connecting to hubs like Denver and Salt Lake City, as well as charter and general aviation traffic tied to the oil and gas industry. It is also used by visitors exploring the nearby Missouri River, the badlands, and Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Williston Basin International Airport is located approximately 12 miles northwest of downtown Williston, North Dakota, off U.S. Highway 2. The airport sits on the vast, flat plains of the Williston Basin, a geological formation that gives the airport its name. Driving from Williston city center takes about 15–20 minutes. The airport is also accessible from nearby communities such as Watford City (about 40 miles south) and Sidney, Montana (about 30 miles west). For those traveling from Minot or Bismarck, the drive is roughly 2 hours each way. Rideshare services and taxis are available in Williston, and rental cars can be booked at the airport terminal. On-site parking is available with a paid parking lot offering short-term and long-term spaces. The terminal's location off the highway makes it easy to find, with clear signage directing travelers to departures and arrivals.
The terminal at Williston Basin International Airport is designed with passenger comfort and accessibility in mind. All key areas are wheelchair-accessible, including the car park, entrance, seating areas, and restrooms. The airport provides gender-neutral toilets and standard accessible toilets, as well as baby changing tables in the restrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing travelers to stay connected while waiting. Seating is ample in the departures lounge, and there are basic concessions for snacks and beverages. The airport also features a small business center and a children's play area. Parking is paid, with a lot located adjacent to the terminal for convenience. The facility is modern and clean, reflecting its relatively recent construction.
Williston sits at the heart of the Bakken oil fields, one of the largest oil-producing regions in the United States. The oil boom began around 2008 and transformed the area from a quiet agricultural community into a bustling energy hub. The airport plays a critical role in supporting the rotational workforce and management personnel who fly in and out regularly. Beyond oil, the region is rich in outdoor recreation. The nearby Missouri River offers fishing, boating, and camping. To the south, the badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park showcase dramatic eroded landscapes and wildlife such as bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs. The park’s South Unit is about a 45-minute drive from the airport. The area also has a strong ranching heritage, with local rodeos and events celebrating Western culture. The geography is defined by wide-open spaces, rolling plains, and buttes, with a semiarid climate featuring cold winters and hot summers.
The airport is open daily, but hours of operation may vary by airline and season. Peak travel times are typically around 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, corresponding to flight schedules. For the most current information on flights, parking rates, and terminal services, travelers can visit the official website at http://www.flywilliston.net/ or call +1 701-875-8594. The website provides flight status updates, parking details, and a directory of airport services. It is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic departures to allow time for parking, check-in, and security screening.
Williston Basin International Airport
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More about Williston Basin International Airport
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More about Williston Basin International Airport
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