General Mitchell International Airport
The primary airport for Milwaukee and a key hub for travelers across Wisconsin and Northern Illinois.
Overview of the Airport
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is located 5.8 miles south of downtown Milwaukee. It serves as the main commercial airport for the region, providing both domestic and limited international flights. The airport is named after General Billy Mitchell, a pioneer of U.S. military aviation.
42.9476, -87.8966
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic increased by 5% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Employment
3,600
Workers across airlines, ground services, concessions, security, and airport operations.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
Redevelopment of Concourse E into a new international concourse will expand passenger and international processing capacity by 2027.
Technological Advancements
Deployment of advanced security screening and digital wayfinding enhances efficiency and passenger experience.
Sustainability Initiatives
Implementation of energy-efficient lighting, green building standards, and expanded recycling programs supports environmental goals.
General Stats
Comprehensive passenger capacity profiles and geographical insights.
View General Stats→Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for General Mitchell International Airport.
Milwaukee Mitchell airport passenger total fell 7%, economy blamed
Passenger traffic at Milwaukee's Mitchell International Airport decreased by 7% in 2025. Economic uncertainty and higher airfares are cited as reasons for the nationwide drop in flight demand. While Milwaukee's numbers fell, other Wisconsin airports in ...
Are Milwaukee travelers facing long airport lines during partial shutdown?
The partial government shutdown and spring break travel season have led to staffing shortages and long security lines at some airports.
Passenger traffic at Mitchell International Airport dipped in 2025
Subscribe to BizTimes Daily - Local news about the people, companies and issues that impact business in Milwaukee and Southeast Wisconsin. Passenger traffic at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport dipped 7% in 2025 to 5,874,372, down from 6,316,245 ...
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival & Baggage Drop-off10-20 mins
- Check-in/Security Screening20-45 mins
- TSA Wait Times15-30 mins
- Boarding5-10 mins
- Gate Arrival5-10 mins
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off30 mins pre-departure
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early for Security
MKE is known for busy security lines, especially during peak travel times. Allow at least 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights to account for potential delays and long waits.
- 2
Utilize Mobile Check-In
Check in online or through the airport's app to expedite the baggage drop-off process and avoid long lines at the check-in counters.
- 3
Explore Terminal 1
Most airlines operate out of Terminal 1 at MKE. Familiarize yourself with the layout and locate your gate efficiently.
- 4
Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi
MKE offers free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected and entertained during your layover or journey.
- 5
Consider Public Transportation
The Milwaukee County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus service to and from MKE, offering a cost-effective alternative to taxis or rental cars.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Book in Advance
Due to the significant growth in cargo operations at MKE, particularly with major expansions for companies like Amazon, Haribo, and Foxconn, booking your cargo shipments well in advance is crucial to securing capacity and preferred rates.
- 2
Utilize 24/7 Customs Clearance
MKE offers 24/7/365 customs clearance services, streamlining the import/export process and ensuring timely delivery of your freight. This is especially important given the high volume of international shipments handled at the airport.
- 3
Leverage Strategic Airport Connections
Take advantage of MKE’s connections to key transportation hubs including ORD, IND, CVG, SDF, BNA, MEM and RFD for efficient distribution of your goods. This network minimizes transit times and optimizes logistics.
- 4
Stay Informed with Mitchell Memo
Subscribe to the Mitchell Memo ([https://www.mitchellairport.com/flights-airlines/cargo-charter-services](https://www.mitchellairport.com/flights-airlines/cargo-charter-services)) to stay current on MKE happenings, operational updates, and new developments related to cargo services.
- 5
Capitalize on New Cargo Facility
The newly developed state-of-the-art cargo facility will attract new air cargo services and destinations, offering a competitive advantage for your business. Utilizing this facility will lower overall operating costs and improve logistics.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for General Mitchell International Airport.
Facts and Stats - Mitchell Airport
Provides monthly data reports and statistics for General Mitchell International Airport, including passenger statistics and air traffic data. Available as a PDF.
Passenger Boarding (Enplanement) and All-Cargo Data for U.S. Airports
Information on the collection and use of passenger and all-cargo data, which is used to calculate airport categories and entitlements.
Milwaukee International Airport Facts & Figures
Most recent facts and figures about Milwaukee International Airport (MKE) including flights, airlines and passenger movements with changes.
Monthly Data Report - Mitchell Airport
Provides a detailed monthly data report for Mitchell Airport, covering various aspects of operations and services.
Airport Statistics for Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
Offers passenger and flight data by month for Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), allowing for comparisons over time.
Location & Maps
Find General Mitchell International Airport on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
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Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Continue collaboration with federal agencies to secure infrastructure funding and meet regulatory requirements.
Infrastructure Investment
Prioritize completion of the new international concourse and terminal modernization to support future growth.
Sustainability Focus
Accelerate adoption of sustainable practices and renewable energy to reduce the airport’s carbon footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at General Mitchell International Airport.
What is General Mitchell International Airport primarily known for?
MKE is primarily known for its South Air Cargo Project, offering uncongested airspace, seamless air-to-truck transfers, and quick access to trucking firms located between the airport and the Illinois border.
How can I get assistance at the airport?
The Traveler's Aid desk, located in the main terminal, provides personal assistance. You can reach them at 414-747-5245.
What ground transportation options are available to and from MKE?
A wide variety of ground transportation options are available to and from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, including various services for ease of travel.
Where can I find flight and truck schedules for MKE?
Flight and truck schedules can be searched and downloaded from the United Cargo website: [https://www.unitedcargo.com/en/us/learn/station-information/MKE]
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
