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

Airports Serving Schenectady County, New York

Schenectady County, home to 158,061 residents and anchored by the City of Schenectady with a population of 67,047, benefits from exceptional air travel access through two airports: Albany International Airport (ALB), the region's primary commercial hub just 10 miles away, and Schenectady County Airport (SCH), a full-service general aviation facility located 3 miles north of downtown Schenectady. Whether you're a business traveler connecting to major U.S. cities or a private pilot operating out of a locally owned facility, Schenectady County's airport infrastructure delivers reliable options for every type of traveler.

Albany International Airport (ALB) — Primary Commercial Gateway

Albany International Airport, located at 737 Albany Shaker Road in neighboring Albany County, serves as the chief commercial airport for all of the Capital Region, including Schenectady County. With IATA code ALB and ICAO code KALB, the airport sits just 10 miles and approximately 16 minutes by road from the heart of Schenectady — making it one of the most accessible major airports in upstate New York.

In 2025, Albany International set a record with just under 1.6 million departing passengers, surpassing its previous record of 1.56 million set in 2004. This growth reflects the airport's expanding route network and rising demand from the Capital Region's population base. The airport operates a single passenger terminal with four concourses — A, B, C, and the Main Terminal — offering more than 25 nonstop domestic destinations.

Airlines serving ALB include Southwest Airlines (which holds roughly one-third of the airport's market share), American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Allegiant Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Avelo Airlines, and Breeze Airways. Nonstop routes connect Schenectady County travelers to major hubs including Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago O'Hare, Charlotte Douglas, Philadelphia, Orlando, Denver, and New York metro area airports.

Albany International is currently undergoing significant capital investment. Concourse A's six gates are receiving a $13.36 million upgrade scheduled for 2026, and a $100 million main terminal expansion project is also slated for completion in 2026. These improvements will enhance passenger capacity and modernize the facility serving Schenectady County residents for decades to come.

Schenectady County Airport (SCH) — General Aviation and Military Hub

Schenectady County Airport (IATA: SCH, ICAO: KSCH) is a county-owned, public-use airport established in 1927 and situated on 680 acres, 3 nautical miles north of downtown Schenectady at an elevation of 378 feet above sea level. While it does not offer scheduled commercial airline service, SCH is a vital general aviation reliever airport that handles an average of 163 flight operations daily.

The airport features two primary runways: Runway 4/22 at 7,001 feet by 150 feet, and Runway 10/28 at 4,850 feet by 150 feet, both surfaced in asphalt. Operations are split approximately 90% general aviation, 8% military, and 2% air taxi. Major tenants at SCH include Stratton Air National Guard Base (home of the 109th Airlift Wing), Richmor Aviation, Fortune Air, the Empire State Aerosciences Museum, the Armed Forces Reserve Center, and Schenectady County Community College's aviation and air traffic controller training programs. The airport also hosts the Schenectady County Airport Business Park, making it a key economic driver within the county.

Ground Transportation: Schenectady County to Albany Airport

Residents of Schenectady County traveling to Albany International Airport have multiple transportation options. By car, the 10-mile drive typically takes about 16 minutes. Public transit options include a combination of Capital District Transportation Authority bus routes (Line 905 and Line 117), with a transit time of approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes at fares starting from $2. Taxi, rideshare, and private shuttle services are also widely available. Schenectady's Amtrak station, located 10 miles from ALB, provides an additional regional connection for travelers combining rail and air travel.

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 Schenectady 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 Schenectady 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 Schenectady, Albany, Saratoga.

Frequently Asked Questions — Airports in Schenectady 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.