The Charm of Regional Hubs: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, USA, Savannah

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), a commercial and military-use airport located in Savannah, Georgia, United States, opened in May 1994, although its history dates back much further. It stands as a testament to the region's growth and the importance of air travel in connecting communities. From its humble beginnings to its current status as an award-winning airport, SAV has played a vital role in the economic and social fabric of the Coastal Empire.

A Glimpse into the Past

The first aircraft landing field in Savannah went into operation on the south side of Daffin Park in 1918. In 1929, the Savannah Municipal Airport opened on September 20, marking the beginning of air service between New York City and Miami by Eastern Air Express. A trolley car was even used as the first terminal at Hunter Field in the mid-1930s. The U.S. Army Air Corps took over Hunter Field during World War II, leading to the construction of a second Municipal Airport, later named Chatham Field and then Travis Field. In 1950, the airport moved from Hunter Field to Travis Field, and the first commercial flight from Travis Field was made by Delta Flight 371 to Atlanta. The current terminal opened in May 1994, showcasing regional Low Country architecture and expanding to include 10 gates.

More Than Just an Airport

SAV is more than just a place to catch a flight; it's an integral part of the Savannah/Hilton Head community. Located 7 miles northwest of Savannah, it offers regular flights to over 30 non-stop destinations. The airport boasts a range of amenities, including shops like the PGA Tour Shop and The Salt Table, and dining options such as Leopold's Ice Cream and Southbound Taphouse. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, ensuring passengers stay connected.

Economic Engine

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport significantly contributes to the region's economy. It supports various industries, including technology, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism. Gulfstream Aerospace's headquarters have been located at the airport since 1967, further solidifying its economic importance. The airport facilitates business travel and tourism, with visitors spending money on lodging, food, transportation, and entertainment.

Awards and Recognition

SAV has consistently been recognised for its exceptional service and passenger experience. For five consecutive years, it has been named the #1 airport in the United States by Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects the dedication of the airport's team and the continued support of its customers.

Services and Facilities

SAV offers a variety of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience:

Shops and Restaurants: A wide array of retail and dining options are available, including local favorites and well-known brands.
Transportation: Car rentals, taxis, and shuttle services are readily available.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, ATMS, a nursing mother's room, and a visitor information centre.
Business Centre: Located in Savannah Square, offering basic business and conference facilities.
Accessibility: Adapted restrooms, telephones, ramps, and elevators for disabled travellers.

Destinations

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport connects the region to numerous destinations across the United States. Airlines operating at SAV include American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. Some popular destinations include:

Atlanta
Baltimore
Boston
Charlotte
Chicago
Dallas
Denver
Houston
New York City
Washington D.C.

A Bright Future

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport continues to evolve and adapt to the growing needs of the region. With its commitment to customer service, economic impact, and ongoing development, SAV is poised to remain a vital hub for travel and commerce in the Coastal Empire for years to come.

The Allure of Regional Hubs: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, USA, Savannah

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), a dual-purpose facility serving both commercial and military aviation, is situated in Savannah, Georgia, USA. Officially opened in May 1994, its history stretches back much further, highlighting the region's expansion and the critical role of air travel in linking communities. From its modest beginnings to its current status as an award-winning airport, SAV has been a cornerstone of the Coastal Empire's economic and social structure.

A Journey Through Time

The story of aviation in Savannah began in 1918, with the establishment of the first aircraft landing field on the south side of Daffin Park. This marked the dawn of a new era for the region, connecting it to the world in ways previously unimaginable.

A significant milestone was reached in 1929 with the opening of the Savannah Municipal Airport on September 20. This event coincided with the inauguration of air service between New York City and Miami by Eastern Air Express, demonstrating the growing importance of air travel for both business and leisure.

During the mid-1930s, the airport, then known as Hunter Field, adopted a rather unique approach to passenger facilities. A trolley car was ingeniously repurposed as the airport's first terminal, showcasing the resourcefulness and adaptability of the time.

The outbreak of World War II brought about significant changes to the airport. The U.S. Army Air Corps recognised the strategic importance of the location and proposed a complete takeover of Hunter Field. While commercial airlines continued to operate there, the increased military presence led to the decision to construct a second Municipal Airport.

In response to the growing needs, the City of Savannah acquired a 600-acre tract in the vicinity of Cherokee Hill, one of the highest elevations in the county. Construction of a new airfield commenced under a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, a testament to the era's efforts to stimulate the economy and create employment.

The new airfield featured three runways, each 3,600 feet long, running in north-south, east-west, and northeast-southwest directions. However, before its completion, the U.S. Army Air Corps found it necessary to take over the facility and initiate additional construction to support their mission.

The airfield was named "Chatham Field" and served as a crucial training base for B-24 bombers and fighter aircraft throughout World War II. This underscores the airport's contribution to the war effort and its role in national defence.

Following the war, in 1948, Chatham Army Airfield was turned over to the Georgia Air National Guard and renamed "Travis Field." A year later, the War Assets Administration gave the deed to Hunter Field to the City of Savannah. In 1950, the City of Savannah received a quitclaim deed to Travis Field, and the airport operations were moved from Hunter Field to Travis Field. This marked a significant transition in the airport's history, consolidating operations at Travis Field.

The inaugural commercial flight from Travis Field was Delta Flight 371, which carried eight passengers to Atlanta. This event symbolised the resumption of commercial air travel and the airport's renewed focus on serving the needs of civilian passengers.

In 1953, the airport witnessed further development with the construction of a new terminal building. This marked a step towards modernising the airport's facilities and enhancing the passenger experience.

A major transformation occurred in May 1994 with the opening of a new 275,000 sq. ft. Terminal. This expansion included 10 gates (expandable to 19), new roads, a new aircraft taxiway and parking apron, stormwater ponds, landscaping, and a new interchange at I-95 (Exit #104) for entry into the Airport. The Terminal Expansion was designed to incorporate regional Low Country architecture, reflecting the unique character of the Savannah/Hilton Head area.

In 2003, the airport was renamed Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), its present name, reflecting its growing international connections and its service to the wider region.

On October 18, 2007, a new $35 million parking garage was opened. This facility added 1,690 parking spaces, bringing the total parking inventory to 3,690. The four-level facility is conveniently located across from the Terminal and is connected via covered walkways from the first and third levels of the garage.

Beyond Just a Place to Fly

SAV is more than just a place to catch a flight; it's an integral part of the Savannah/Hilton Head community. Situated 7 miles northwest of Savannah, it provides regular flights to over 30 non-stop destinations. The airport features a variety of amenities, including shops like the PGA Tour Shop and The Salt Table, and dining options such as Leopold's Ice Cream and Southbound Taphouse. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, ensuring passengers stay connected.

A Key Economic Driver

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a significant contributor to the region's economy. The total economic impact of Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport is $2.4 billion. It supports various industries, including technology, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism. Gulfstream Aerospace's headquarters have been located at the airport since 1967, further solidifying its economic importance. The airport facilitates business travel and tourism, with visitors spending money on lodging, food, transportation, and entertainment.

Recognition for Excellence

SAV has consistently earned recognition for its outstanding service and passenger experience. For five consecutive years, it has been honoured as the #1 airport in the United States by Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards. This prestigious accolade reflects the dedication of the airport's team and the ongoing support of its patrons.

Services and Amenities

SAV offers a range of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience:

Shops and Restaurants: A wide array of retail and dining options are available, including local favorites and well-known brands.
Transportation: Car rentals, taxis, and shuttle services are readily available.
Amenities: Free Wi-FiATMSMs, a nursing mother's room, and a visitor information centre.
Business Centre: Located in Savannah Square, offering basic business and conference facilities.
Accessibility: Adapted restrooms, telephones, ramps, and elevators for disabled travellers.