Northwest Arkansas National Airport
Arkansas’s busiest airport and a critical hub for regional business, leisure, and economic growth.
Overview of the Airport
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) is located 15 miles northwest of Fayetteville, serving as the primary commercial airport for the rapidly growing Northwest Arkansas region. XNA connects the area to major business and leisure destinations across the United States.
36.2819, -94.3068
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic increased by 15.5% year-over-year in 2024, with a further 7.3% rise in 2025 to date.[4]
Employment
2,400
Workers include airline staff, ground services, concessions, security, and airport operations personnel.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
A $36 million terminal renovation and new air traffic control tower project are underway to expand capacity and improve passenger experience.[2]
Technological Advancements
Deployment of advanced TSA screening, expanded self-service kiosks, and digital wayfinding enhance efficiency and convenience.
Sustainability Initiatives
Initiatives include LED lighting upgrades, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and expanded recycling programs to reduce environmental impact.
General Stats
Comprehensive passenger capacity profiles and geographical insights.
View General Stats→Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Northwest Arkansas National Airport.
XNA, Highfill approve airport’s detachment timeline with city
The Northwest Arkansas National Airport says it approved a timeline Aug. 18 with the city of Highfill that would lead to the ...
XNA flies past Little Rock for the first time
Travelers flew more times out of Northwest Arkansas National Airport than at Clinton National Airport in Little Rock in 2025, XNA spokesperson Olivia Tyler confirmed to Axios. Why it matters: This is ...
Northwest Arkansas National Airport files lawsuit against City of Highfill
The Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport heard from a Highfill City Council member at its board meeting Tuesday, during an ...
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival & Baggage Claim5-10 mins
- Check-in5-15 mins
- Security Screening4-12 mins
- Immigration (if applicable)10-20 mins
- Gate Transfer2-5 mins
- Boarding10-20 mins
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off60 mins pre-departure
- Cargo Drop-offAs per airline schedule
- X-Ray ScreeningUpon arrival
- ManifestingPrior to screening
- Weight and MeasurementPost-manifesting
- Baggage TaggingDuring manifesting
- LoadingAs per airline schedule
- Final CheckBefore departure
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early for Peak Travel Times
XNA experiences peak travel periods, especially during morning and evening rush hours. Allow extra time to account for potential delays and navigate the terminal, particularly if traveling during these times.
- 2
Confirm Your Flight with the Airline
Always contact your airline directly to confirm your flight schedule and receive their recommended arrival time. Flight times can fluctuate, and airlines have the most up-to-date information.
- 3
Utilize Airport Parking Strategically
XNA offers various parking options, including long-term and short-term. Consider pre-booking your parking spot, especially during busy travel periods, to guarantee availability and potentially save money.
- 4
Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi
Northwest Arkansas National Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Stay connected and productive while you wait for your flight.
- 5
Explore Dining and Shopping Options
XNA features a selection of restaurants and shops to suit your needs. Plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the options to avoid hunger or last-minute shopping dilemmas.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Book in Advance
Air freight capacity at XNA can fluctuate significantly based on seasonal demand and airline schedules. Booking shipments well in advance, particularly during peak travel periods, ensures availability and potentially better rates.
- 2
Utilize Strategic Ground Transportation
Leverage the proximity of XNA to major trucking routes and freight terminals in Northwest Arkansas. Coordinating efficient ground transportation is crucial for timely delivery of goods to and from the airport.
- 3
Understand Airline-Specific Cargo Regulations
Each operating airline (Delta, American, Frontier, Allegiant, United) has specific cargo regulations and procedures. Thoroughly research and adhere to these requirements to avoid delays and ensure smooth handling.
- 4
Leverage FBO Services for Specialized Needs
Utilize the FBO (Fixed Base Operator) services available at XNA, such as MyOps Aero, for specialized handling, security risk mitigation, and logistical support to streamline cargo operations.
- 5
Monitor Airport Operations Real-Time
Stay informed about real-time airport operations through resources like AOPA Airports and AirNav to anticipate potential delays or disruptions and proactively adjust shipping plans.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Northwest Arkansas National Airport.
Airport Traffic Reports
Historical airport traffic reports from 1998-2022, including passenger boarding and all-cargo data.
Passenger & All-Cargo Statistics
Data on passenger boarding and all-cargo data, used for airport category calculations and funding.
Air Cargo Summary Data
US airline revenue from cargo (freight + mail + charter).
Airport Categories
Information on how passenger boarding and all-cargo data are used to determine airport categories and entitlements.
Northwest Arkansas National Airport Statistics
A collection of statistics related to XNA, including passenger boarding and all-cargo data.
Airports - United States
Information regarding the Northwest Arkansas National Airport.
Airport Data & Information Portal
Access to the FAA's Airport Data & Information Portal, including airport activity survey data.
Location & Maps
Find Northwest Arkansas National Airport on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
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Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Continue collaboration with federal and state agencies to secure infrastructure funding and support regional growth.
Infrastructure Investment
Prioritize terminal modernization, parking expansion, and airfield upgrades to meet rising demand.
Sustainability Focus
Accelerate adoption of green technologies and sustainable operations to align with environmental goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Northwest Arkansas National Airport.
What airlines operate out of Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)?
While the provided information doesn't detail specific airlines operating at XNA, it does mention TSA preparations for increased summer travel, indicating a significant volume of flights and potential service from various airlines.
Are there car rental options available at XNA?
Yes, several car rental companies operate at XNA, including National and Avis. However, certain vehicle types, such as Exotics or Large Passenger Vans, may have restrictions on travel outside the US. [https://www.nationalcar.com/en/car-rental-locations/us/ar/northwest-arkansas-regional-airport-51n7.html; https://www.avis.com/en/locations/us/ar/bentonville/xna]
What security measures are in place at XNA?
The TSA is actively monitoring gun carry frequency at XNA and is preparing for increased traveler volume during summer travel. They are also concerned about the overall security of travelers passing through the airport. [https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2022/03/23/tsa-warns-about-frequency-guns-carried-arkansas-airport-security; https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2022/06/08/tsa-prepared-summer-travel-out-northwest-arkansas-national-airport]
Is XNA experiencing increased passenger traffic?
Yes, the TSA is preparing for an increase in travelers flying out of Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) during the summer months, suggesting a growing volume of passenger traffic. [https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2022/06/08/tsa-prepared-summer-travel-out-northwest-arkansas-national-airport]
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
