Airports in Franklin County, Washington: Private, Municipal, Regional(All)

Airports in Franklin County, Washington

Franklin County, Washington is home to one of the Pacific Northwest's fastest-growing commercial airports. Tri-Cities Airport (PSC), located just two miles northwest of downtown Pasco — the county seat — serves as the primary aviation gateway for the entire Tri-Cities metropolitan region, encompassing Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. With a combined metro population of over 314,000 residents, the Tri-Cities area ranks as the third-largest metropolitan area entirely within Washington state, and Tri-Cities Airport is the infrastructure backbone connecting Franklin County to the nation.

Pasco itself is a rapidly growing city with an estimated population of 81,724 as of 2024, and Franklin County has surpassed 101,000 residents. That growth has translated directly into record-breaking airport performance. In 2024, PSC recorded 949,110 total passengers — a 9% increase over 2023 — and 2025 marked the airport's third consecutive record-breaking year, with 975,372 total passengers and 494,829 enplanements. December 2024 was the busiest single month on record, with 49,343 enplanements.

Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) — The Region's Commercial Hub

Tri-Cities Airport (IATA: PSC, ICAO: KPSC) is a federally certificated Part 139 commercial service airport managed by the Port of Pasco. It sits within Franklin County's boundaries and is positioned strategically at the confluence of the Yakima, Snake, and Columbia Rivers in Eastern Washington's Columbia Basin. The airport is approximately 215 miles southeast of Seattle (roughly a three-hour drive), 215 miles east-northeast of Portland, and 140 miles southwest of Spokane — making it the most practical commercial aviation option for a wide swath of southeastern Washington and northeastern Oregon.

Five major air carriers operate scheduled service at PSC:

• Alaska Airlines / Horizon Air — The dominant carrier at PSC, operating Embraer E175 regional jets exclusively since 2023. Alaska added nonstop Los Angeles service in recent years, broadening the airport's West Coast reach.
• Allegiant Air — Operates Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft with leisure-oriented routes to select U.S. destinations.
• American Airlines — Provides daily nonstop service to Phoenix Sky Harbor, expanded to two daily flights in September 2025, offering connections through one of the nation's largest hub airports.
• Delta Air Lines — Offers service via Airbus A319/A320 and Boeing 717 equipment, with connections through Salt Lake City and Minneapolis-St. Paul.
• United Airlines — Provides connectivity to its major hub network, enabling one-stop access to hundreds of domestic and international destinations.
• Avelo Airlines — Increased its Hollywood-Burbank (BUR) route from two to four weekly flights, adding Southern California options for Franklin County travelers.

PSC operates nonstop flights to ten U.S. cities, including Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP), Salt Lake City (SLC), Phoenix (PHX), Los Angeles (LAX), and Hollywood-Burbank (BUR). For travelers needing additional routing options, Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW) is approximately 61 miles away, and Eastern Oregon Regional Airport in Pendleton (PDT) is about 82 miles distant.

General Aviation and Cargo at Franklin County

Beyond commercial passenger service, PSC hosts fixed-base operators (FBOs) serving corporate and private aviation. The airport's instrument approaches, runway capacity, and fuel services make it a reliable stop for business aircraft throughout Eastern Washington. Agricultural aviation — vital to Franklin County's extensive potato, wheat, and asparagus farming operations — also relies on private airstrips and agricultural aviation services throughout the county's rural areas.

Whether you are a Franklin County resident commuting for business, a visitor arriving to explore the Columbia River wine country, or a shipper moving time-sensitive cargo, Tri-Cities Airport provides the air connectivity that keeps this high-growth county connected to the rest of the country.

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 5 Airports locations in Franklin County, Washington.

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 Franklin 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 Franklin.

Frequently Asked Questions — Airports in Franklin County, Washington

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.