Norfolk Airport Mini Guide
Why do People go to Norfolk?
Norfolk in Virginia is home to the world’s largest naval base and so many of the travellers there are either sailors or their families. Apart from the navy base, Norfolk has many other attractions to tempt the traveller. It was once a renowned seaside resort with Ocean View beach one of the top beaches on the eastern seaboard. After spiralling into decay for decades, the city’s authorities have now worked hard to turn it around and with increased demand for luxury housing in the Ocean View area, tourists are returning. The city itself is worth a visit too with a thriving arts and culture scene complete with theatres, art galleries and its own orchestra.
How do I get to Norfolk?
Norfolk Airport is only three miles from Norfolk’s centre but no buses operate routes to the airport. To get to your destination, you’ll have to pre-book a shuttle which will drop you off at any destination in the Hampton Roads area or hire a car or take a taxi. There are no international routes currently operating to Norfolk so overseas visitors must take a flight to either
Chicago,
Washington or
JFK to connect through to Norfolk.
What is the Airport Like?
The airport consists of a single terminal with two concourses, one operated by Southwest and US Airlines only. It’s modern looking building which is light and fresh inside. Despite being one of America’s busiest airports it never seems to be overcrowded.
What can I Expect When I Arrive at Norfolk?
You’ll have the luxury of disembarking via air bridges into the concourse and then have a short journey along to security. Once through that part of airport procedure, you’ll need to divert to the right as you approach the terminal for the arrivals hall is in a separate building away from the main terminal. In this area you’ll find airport information along with the baggage reclaim on the lower level and you will be advised of which belt to wait at by watching the screens. Car hire desks are near the baggage reclaim too and once the final paperwork is checked you’ll soon be on your way. Don’t forget there are no buses to Norfolk Airport! In the arrivals public area there’s a bank, a currency exchange facility and ATMs so you won’t be stuck for cash.
What can I Expect Whilst waiting for my Journey Home?
First you’ll need to deposit your bags and check in. Once that is completed you can either spend your time on the chargeable Wi-Fi, checking emails or surfing the web or you can shop or eat. This time you’ll be in a different part of the airport and on the first level there’s a mall of shops and restaurants. The number of each isn’t huge but there’s good variety of quality outlets both for shopping and eating including snack bars serving typically east coast fare such as chilli dogs, hamburgers etc.
Why not find out more information on driving and renting a car in the USA, particularly important if you've never driven in the USA before.