Mitchell International Airport (MKE): Airport Passenger Stats & Facilities Guide

When you are traveling to or from Wisconsin, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is a great choice. MKE is conveniently located just 5 miles south of downtown Milwaukee and provides access via civil-military operations, as well as being a major gateway for domestic and limited international flights. 

Featuring modern facilities, rich aviation history, and continuous upgrades, MKE has been recognized among the best airports in the United States. Whether you’re an experienced frequent flyer or this will be your first time traveling by air, read on to learn all about Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport!

Overview of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport 

The Federal Aviation Administration classifies Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport as a medium-hub primary commercial service airport. The airport covers 2,314 acres and operates five runways, welcoming millions of passengers each year. 

It serves not only Milwaukee but also Southern and Eastern Wisconsin travelers, plus Northern Illinois ones. This airport bears the name of Billy Mitchell, who was one of the original pioneers popularly known as ‘the father’ of US Air Force aviation.

A Brief History 

The origins of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport can be traced back to 1920, when it was first founded by aviator Thomas F. Hamilton, who named it Hamilton Airport. Since then, the airport has grown to become one of the most significant aviation centers:

• 1926: It was acquired by Milwaukee County and renamed Milwaukee County Airport

• 1927: First terminal opened

• 1941: It was renamed General Mitchell Field

• World War II: It was used as a prisoner of war camp

• 1955: New terminal introduced

• 1986: It was renamed General Mitchell International Airport

• 2019: It was renamed to its current name to highlight its location

The airport’s long history is a clear indication of its contribution to both civil and military aviation.

Award-Winning Recognition

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport has global recognition for service quality. In 2023, it was ranked among the best airports in the world by Airports Council International (ACI), continuing a streak of excellence for several years.

Terminal and Facilities

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport operates with one main terminal building divided into two concourses, C and D, with 38 gates.

Key Features

Airlines & Gates:

• Concourse C: Southwest Airlines, United Airlines

• Concourse D: Other major airlines

International Arrivals: Passengers arriving on international flights must go through the International Arrivals Building, which is currently being upgraded.

Amenities:

• Food court with dining facilities

• Retail shops, including the unique used bookstore

• Children's play areas

• TSA PreCheck kiosks

Unique Attractions:

• Mitchell Gallery of Flight, an aviation museum

• USO lounge for military personnel

• Public areas for plane spotting

All these facilities make the airport not only convenient but also interesting for travelers.

Expansion and Future Development

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is undergoing major improvements and expansions.

Recent and Upcoming Projects

• Runway Safety Expansion (2009–2012): Improved safety after the runway incident

• Concourse E Redevelopment:

• Concourse E was closed in 2017

• It is now being rebuilt into a new concourse (not just a simple expansion)

• It will have only ~2 gates initially, not a full large terminal 

Though the earlier expansion plans were delayed because of less traffic, the current expansion is to improve the passenger experience.

Ground Transportation Options

Access to and from the airport is easy and hassle-free with the availability of many transportation options.

Road Access

Access to the airport is via:

• I-41 / I-94

• Wisconsin Highway 119

Public Transportation

MCTS Green Line connects the airport to downtown Milwaukee. Route 80 connects the airport to several other areas.

Rail Connectivity

The Milwaukee Airport Rail Station is located near the airport. It connects to the city via Amtrak rail services to:

• Chicago

• Milwaukee

• St. Paul

Free shuttle services operate between the station and the airport.

Intercity Bus Services

Intercity buses operate to several nearby areas. So, the airport is also a hub for public transportation.

Military Presence

In addition to being a commercial airport, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is also the location for the General Mitchell Air National Guard Base, which serves the military. The 128th Air Refueling Wing is based here. It flies Boeing KC-135 aircraft.

Passenger Traffic Statistics

Passenger traffic at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport has shown strong recovery and growth in recent years:

The figures also indicate a level of resilience after the pandemic and the sustained demand for air travel in the region.

Why Choose Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport?

MKE is a preferred airport for travelers due to several reasons: Less crowded compared to other major airports.

• Single-terminal layout for easy navigation

• Efficient security and check-in process

• Strong regional connectivity

• Award-winning passenger experience

It is also a preferred airport for travelers who want a better experience compared to other major airports, such as Chicago O’Hare.

Final Thoughts

Mitchell Airport is a top-tier airport due to its convenience, history, and modern facilities. The airport has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 1920s. Today, it is an award-winning airport and continues to improve and expand its facilities for travelers. 

The airport is a key hub for aviation activities and is set to improve further due to the expansion plans and high passenger satisfaction ratings. The airport is a preferred destination for travelers due to its reliability and comfort for a smooth travel experience.