Airports in Ontario County, New York: Private, Municipal, Regional(All)

Airports Serving Ontario County, New York

Ontario County sits in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, a destination known for its wine trails, Seneca and Canandaigua Lakes, and historic towns like Canandaigua and Geneva. While the county itself does not host a commercial service airport within its borders, residents and visitors have reliable access to several regional and international airports within a reasonable drive, each offering distinct advantages depending on destination and travel preference.

The closest commercial airport to Ontario County is the Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), located approximately 25 miles northwest of Canandaigua in Monroe County. ROC is served by major carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, offering nonstop service to hubs such as Charlotte Douglas (CLT), Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Philadelphia (PHL), and Boston Logan (BOS). The airport handles roughly 3 million passengers annually and features two terminals, a TSA PreCheck lane, rental car facilities, and ample long-term parking. For most Ontario County travelers, ROC is the default gateway for domestic travel.

For those requiring international connections or broader nonstop options, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) lies approximately 75 miles to the west of Canandaigua, typically a 75- to 90-minute drive via I-90. BUF serves carriers including Southwest, JetBlue, American, Delta, United, and Air Canada, with routes to Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Cancún (CUN), and major U.S. hubs. Its single passenger terminal is known for shorter security lines and lower average fares compared to larger northeastern airports, making it attractive for Ontario County travelers seeking competitive pricing or international routes.

Travelers willing to make the roughly 90-minute drive east on the New York State Thruway and I-81 can access Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), situated in Onondaga County. SYR operates nonstop routes through American, Delta, United, and JetBlue to destinations including New York JFK, Philadelphia, Chicago, Charlotte, Atlanta, Boston, and Washington Dulles. The airport serves approximately 2 million passengers per year and recently completed terminal upgrades that improved concessions and gate capacity.

For private aviation and charter flight access directly within the county, Canandaigua Airport (D38)—a general aviation facility managed by Ontario County—serves small piston and turboprop aircraft. Located off County Road 10 just south of Canandaigua city, D38 features a 3,500-foot paved runway, transient aircraft parking, and fuel services. It is commonly used by corporate travelers, flight training operations, and recreational pilots exploring the Finger Lakes. The airport does not offer scheduled commercial service but provides an important link for business aviation in the region.

Additionally, Penn Yan Airport (PEO), situated in neighboring Yates County just south of Ontario County's border, serves as another general aviation option for residents in the southern portions of Ontario County including the towns of Naples and Canadice. Penn Yan Airport has a 3,300-foot paved runway and is popular with agricultural aviation and recreational flyers traversing the Finger Lakes.

Ontario County's transportation infrastructure, anchored by Route 5 and 20 and convenient access to the New York State Thruway (I-90), makes reaching any of these airport options manageable for county residents. The county's Office of Economic Development actively supports regional air connectivity as part of its broader tourism and business attraction strategy, given the importance of the Finger Lakes wine and tourism industry to the local economy.

Whether you are a county resident planning a business trip, a wine trail visitor returning home, or a regional business coordinating freight and charter logistics, understanding the full landscape of airport access from Ontario County ensures you can select the most efficient and cost-effective travel option for your needs.

Airport facilities in a county are typically governed by regional airport authorities or county commissions that oversee operations, safety standards, and capital improvements. There are 7 Airports locations in Ontario County, New York.

County residents can use this directory to identify which airports serve their area, whether they need commercial airline service, general aviation access, or cargo shipping connections. Contact the airport administration office directly for permitting, noise complaints, or facility inquiries.

Residents of Ontario County can contact their local airport authority for information about noise abatement programs, land use around airport property, and community engagement meetings. For flight bookings and airline services, visit the airport's official website directly.

You may also find Airports locations in neighboring counties including Yates, Ontario, Wayne.

Frequently Asked Questions: Airports & Air Travel from Ontario County, NY

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How early should I arrive at the airport?

Most of the time, you should get to the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and at least three hours before your international flight. This will allow you enough time to check in, pass through security, and make your way to your gate.

2. What should I do if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

If your flight is delayed or canceled, you should contact your airline as soon as possible. They will usually tell you what your options are, which could include getting a refund or rebooking on a later flight.

3. What is clear at the airport?

Clear is a TSA pre-check program that speeds up the security screening process for low-risk travelers who have already been approved.

Members of the Clear program are able to use dedicated security lanes where they do not have to remove items such as shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. This process allows for a faster and more convenient screening experience for Clear members.

To become a member of Clear, an individual must provide their biographic information and fingerprints for a background check, and then pay an annual fee.

4. Are masks required in airports?

The TSA will no longer require airport employees or patrons to wear a face covering or face mask inside the airport terminal or on airport-operated ground transportation.

5. Can you bring food through airport security?

Yes, you can bring food through airport security.

Solid foods like sandwiches, fruits, and granola bars, are allowed in your carry-on and checked baggage.

Some liquid and gel-like foods, such as yogurt, jelly, and hummus, are also permitted in your carry-on bag as long as they are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less.

6. How much is airport parking?

The cost of airport parking can vary greatly depending on the airport, the length of time you will be parked, and the type of parking spot you choose.

On average, hourly parking rates can range from $1-$4 per hour, while daily rates can range from $8-$30 per day. Long-term parking rates can range from $8-$20 per day.

7. Can I leave the airport during a layover?

Yes, If your layover is long enough, you may be able to leave the airport and explore the destination city. It's also a good idea to check with your airline to see if they offer any tours or other options for passengers with long layovers.

8. Can I sleep in an airport?

Yes, you can sleep in an airport, however, the amenities and comfort levels of sleeping in an airport can vary greatly depending on the airport you are in.

Some airports also offer amenities like sleeping pods, capsule hotels and lounges for passengers who want to rest or sleep before their flight. Some airlines also offer resting rooms or lounges for their premium customers.