Jacksonville International Airport

Jacksonville International Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) serves as Northeast Florida’s primary air gateway, connecting millions of travelers annually through its modern facilities and efficient operations. Established in 1968 to replace the older Imeson Airport, JAX was strategically designed to support Jacksonville’s expanding role as a regional economic and transportation hub. Over the decades, the airport has grown alongside the city, reflecting Jacksonville’s rise in logistics, military significance, and tourism (Airports Guides; City-Data).

Today, JAX features a streamlined single terminal with two concourses (A and C), each with 10 gates. Ongoing expansion projects—including the future Concourse B—aim to boost capacity and passenger experience, targeting up to 10 million annual passengers by 2035 (News4Jax; Construction Review Online). This guide provides essential information on airport hours, ticketing, navigation, amenities, parking, transportation, and accessibility. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or frequent flyer, use this guide to optimize your travel experience at JAX. Its proximity to major attractions and its economic importance make JAX more than just an airport—it’s a vital portal to the region (Jacksonville Traveler; Fly Jacksonville).

Jacksonville International Airport airport diagram showing runways, taxiways, and terminals layout

Aerial view of Jacksonville International Airport with runways and terminal buildings under a clear sky

Major Chris Bembenick performing pre-flight inspection on F-15 Eagle fighter jet at Jacksonville Air National Guard Base

Historical Development of Jacksonville International Airport
Essential Visitor Information
Airport Facilities and Amenities
Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Development of Jacksonville International Airport

Early Foundations and Growth

JAX opened in 1968, replacing Imeson Airport to address the region’s growing aviation needs. Located about 13 miles north of downtown Jacksonville, it was built to support both business and leisure travelers with potential for expansion (Airports Guides). The original design featured a single terminal and two concourses, in line with the air traffic volumes of the late 1960s.

As Jacksonville’s economy expanded—fueled by its port, military bases, and logistics industries—the airport grew in tandem. By the early 2000s, an influx of aviation professionals and related businesses contributed to the region’s economic vibrancy (City-Data).

Modernization and Expansion Initiatives

To keep pace with rising passenger numbers and traveler expectations, JAX has invested in significant upgrades. The airport’s master plan has guided expansion projects, including new gates, concourses, and enhanced amenities. Both Concourse A and Concourse C now offer 10 gates each, supporting efficient passenger flow and airline operations (News4Jax).

In 2024, JAX handled over 7.6 million travelers—a 2.8% year-over-year increase. This growth accelerated a $440 million modernization project, which includes the under-construction Concourse B, set to add 6–13 new gates by 2026 (Construction Review Online). Additional improvements feature a multi-level parking garage, expanded TSA screening, and more dining and retail options, all designed to improve traffic flow and passenger comfort (Fly Jacksonville).

Economic and Regional Significance

JAX is a cornerstone of Northeast Florida’s economy, supporting not only passenger travel but also air cargo, customs, and international trade (City-Data). Its location near major military installations, like Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Naval Station Mayport, amplifies its strategic value and fosters a skilled aviation workforce.

The airport’s construction and expansion projects have created thousands of jobs, both temporary and permanent, and its customs and free trade zone facilities reinforce Jacksonville’s status as a gateway for global commerce (News4Jax).

Essential Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Jacksonville International Airport operates 24/7, but airline ticket counters and most passenger services run from early morning until late evening. Check with your airline for specific ticketing and check-in times. Tickets can be purchased online, at airline counters, or via self-service kiosks. Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and two hours before international flights (Jacksonville Traveler).

JAX is designed for easy navigation, with arrivals and departures on separate floors and clear signage throughout. The central atrium features art, helpful staff, and occasional live music. After security, two concourses (A and C) are accessible via well-marked corridors (Jacksonville Traveler).

Amenities and Services

Travelers enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, various dining and shopping options, and pet-friendly facilities. The JAX Airport App provides real-time flight, parking, and amenity updates. The airport consistently ranks high for cleanliness and service (News4Jax).

Parking and Ground Transportation

Parking options include hourly and daily garages, economy lots, valet, and a courtesy waiting lot. A new parking garage will add capacity. Complimentary services such as battery assist and vehicle location help are available. Ground transportation includes rental cars, taxis, ride-shares, and limited public transit, with quick access to downtown, beaches, and attractions (Fly Jacksonville; Jacksonville Traveler).

Accessibility and Special Services

JAX is fully ADA-compliant, offering accessible restrooms, elevators, shuttle buses, and parking. Assistance is available at call boxes and from airport staff (Fly Jacksonville).

Visitor Information and Local Connections

The Visitor Information Center in the terminal provides maps, brochures, and personalized help (Visit Florida). The airport’s location offers easy access to Jacksonville Landing, Museum of Science and History, and the city’s beaches (Nomadasaurus). Nearby hotels offer shuttle service and convenient accommodations (Jacksonville Traveler).

Airport Facilities and Amenities

Terminal and Concourse Layout

JAX’s single terminal divides into Concourse A (Gates A1–A10) and Concourse C (Gates C1–C10), each serving multiple airlines and offering a range of passenger services (airportmaps.com; jaxairport.com).

Accessibility

The airport’s compact, C-shaped layout ensures short walks and easy navigation. Elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms are available throughout (jaxairport.com).

Ticketing and Security

Ticketing counters and self-service kiosks are in the main terminal. TSA screening is centralized, serving both concourses (safefly.aero).

Baggage Claim

Baggage claim is located on the lower terminal level, adjacent to car rental counters and ground transportation (jaxairport.com).

Airline Lounges

The Delta Sky Club near Gates A1–A10 offers eligible travelers a comfortable pre-flight experience (jaxairport.com).

Dining and Shopping

JAX features a variety of dining and shopping:

Cafés & Coffee: Starbucks and local favorites.
Fast Food: Chick-fil-A, Burger King, Auntie Anne’s.
Casual Dining: Local seafood and Southern cuisine.
Bars: Full-service bars in both concourses.
Retail: Newsstands, souvenirs, electronics, and local products.
Pharmacy: For health and wellness needs (airportmaps.com).

Parking

Options include:

Hourly Garage: Closest for short stays.
Daily Garage/Surface Lot: For longer-term parking.
Economy Lots: Budget-friendly, with shuttle service.
Premier & Valet: Premium options.
Courtesy Waiting Lot: Free for pick-ups (jaxairport.com).

Ground Transportation

Choose from rental cars, taxis, rideshares, hotel shuttles, and JTA buses for convenient travel to and from the airport (airportmaps.com).

Additional Services

Free Wi-Fi and charging stations.
Family restrooms, nursing rooms, and pet relief areas.
Business services and meeting rooms.
Lost & Found in the main terminal (jaxairport.com).

Travel Tips

Arrive two hours before domestic, three hours before international flights.
Check baggage and ticketing policies in advance.
Use the JAX mobile app for updates and maps.
Economy parking with shuttle service is a cost-effective choice.

Nearby Attractions

Take advantage of JAX’s location by exploring Jacksonville’s vibrant downtown, nearby beaches, or attending airport-hosted events such as exhibitions and holiday celebrations. The airport’s website posts current event information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are Jacksonville International Airport’s visiting hours?
A: Terminals are open from 4:00 AM to midnight (24/7 for operations); ticketing typically opens two hours before the first flight.

Q: Where can I buy JAX tickets?
A: Online via airline websites, at main terminal counters, or through travel agencies.

Q: Is parking available at Jacksonville International Airport?
A: Yes, including hourly, daily, economy, valet, and a courtesy waiting lot.

Q: Does JAX provide services for travelers with disabilities?
A: Yes, including elevators, accessible restrooms, and special assistance.

Q: How do I reach downtown Jacksonville from the airport?
A: Taxis, rideshares, rental cars, hotel shuttles, and JTA public buses are available.

Summary and Recommendations

Jacksonville International Airport is a modern, expanding transportation hub that blends operational efficiency with traveler comfort. Its evolution from a modest 1960s facility to a major regional gateway mirrors Jacksonville’s ascent as a key economic and military center. Ongoing investments—including Concourse B and enhanced parking—position JAX to meet growing demand while improving the passenger experience (News4Jax; Fly Jacksonville).

Comprehensive services, accessible facilities, diverse dining and shopping, and efficient ground transportation ensure a comfortable visit. To maximize your experience, use the official JAX Airport App and trusted travel resources for real-time updates and guidance. As travel through Jacksonville increases, JAX remains the region’s cornerstone for connectivity and hospitality (Jacksonville Traveler; airportmaps.com).