Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): Complete Guide to Terminals, History & Facilities

If you are planning a flight to or from Northeast Florida, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is one of the best airports to consider. It is located 13 miles north of Downtown Jacksonville and serves millions of passengers every year efficiently.

This blog is a complete guide regarding Jacksonville International Airport, including information regarding its history, facilities, expansions, and more.

An Overview of Jacksonville International Airport

Jacksonville International Airport, which is owned and operated by the Jacksonville Aviation Authority, is located on a massive 7,911 acres of land in Duval County, Florida. It has two major runways and a highly efficient terminal.

This airport serves both military and commercial aviation purposes and is a significant aviation hub in the area.

A Brief History of JAX

The history of the Jacksonville International Airport began in 1965 when the construction process started with the intention of replacing the old airport known as Imeson Field. The airport was finally opened on September 1, 1968, with the introduction of the then-new concept of separating arriving and departing passengers on different sides of the airport.

Over the years, the airport has undergone tremendous growth:

• In 1982, the airport served 2 million passengers

• In 1999, the passenger count rose to 5 million

• Between 2004 and 2005, the airport underwent an expansion project

• In 2007, the airport served over 6 million passengers

Just as the airport experienced growth in the past, the COVID-19 pandemic also negatively impacted the airport's growth in 2020. The airport is, however, growing rapidly.

Expansion and Future Development

The growth experienced at the Jacksonville International Airport is tremendous. In 2019, the airport served over 7 million passengers. This prompted the airport to start reviewing its expansion strategy.

One of the developments is the expansion of the airport's Concourse B:

• The construction process started in 2024

• Expected completion date: 2026

• The expansion will see the opening of 6 gates, with the possibility of opening 10 gates

Terminal Layout and Facilities

JAX has gained a reputation for its simple layout that is easy to navigate. This makes it perfect for first-time travelers as well as those who frequently use the airport.

Terminal Structure

• First Floor: baggage claim

• Second Floor: ticketing and check-in

• Mezzanine Level: security, shopping, and dining

• Concourses: A and C, each with 10 gates

The airport has been designed in such a manner that it promotes the smooth flow of passengers. This has helped minimize the level of anxiety that travelers often feel during peak hours.

Facilities

JAX airport offers travelers a variety of amenities that can be enjoyed during the course of the trip. Among these are:

• Shopping and dining options available on all concourses

• Airline lounges such as the Delta Sky Club

• Multi-airline passenger lounge

• Art galleries showcasing Jacksonville’s cultural heritage

Runways and Airfield Design

The Jacksonville International Airport has two runways. They are configured in a unique "V" shape. The runways are:

• Runway 08/26: 10,000 feet

• Runway 14/32: 7,701 feet

The airport is in the process of constructing a new runway parallel to the current ones. This will help in enhancing capacity and reducing delays.

Military Presence

JAX is not just a commercial airport; it is also a military base. It is the location of the Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, which is home to the 125th Fighter Wing.

This military base is significant in the country’s military activities and plays a vital role in ensuring safety at JAX airport through excellent rescue and firefighting services.

Passenger Traffic Growth

Jacksonville International Airport has experienced steady growth in passenger traffic in recent years, a testament to its growing importance as a regional aviation center.

This is a consistent upward trend that reflects the airport's ability to grow and serve increasing numbers of travelers efficiently.

Why Travelers Prefer JAX

Jacksonville International Airport is special for several reasons:

• Easy to navigate compared to other major airports

• Short security lines

• Conveniently located near downtown Jacksonville

• Clean and modern airport

• Constantly upgrading and expanding

Whether your travel is for business or pleasure, JAX is a stress-free airport experience for travelers.

Final Thoughts

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is an airport that offers a winning combination of efficiency, expansion, and comfort that few airports of its size have been able to achieve. With its expanding capabilities and increasing passenger traffic, it is on its way to becoming a major aviation hub for the state of Florida.

If you are planning a trip to or from Jacksonville, JAX is not just an airport – it is a gateway airport built for travelers.