Travel Tips & FAQ’S
For security information please visit Transportation Security Administration. It is recommended that passengers arrive 1:45 minutes before flight time.
When does the airline terminal open and close?
Please contact the airport administrative office (479-452-7000 Ext. 50)
What time does the security checkpoint close?
The TSA checkpoint closes 5 minutes after each SCHEDULED departure time. If your flight is delayed, the checkpoint may still close at the originally SCHEDULED departure time. Additionally, if you leave the secured area after the checkpoint closes, you cannot re-enter. Don’t get left behind! If you don’t arrive prior to the closure of the checkpoint, you will miss your flight. For further security requirements and prohibited item information, visit Transportation Security Administration.
Does the airport have taxi or bus service?
Taxi service can be obtained using the UBER or LYFT apps on your smartphone.
The City of Fort Smith offers bus service if scheduled one day in advance (479.783.6464 Monday thru Saturday, 8a-3p).
Why can’t I call the local airline office directly?
To reach American Airlines, call 1-800-433-7300, or visit their website aa.com.
Airports and airlines have a landlord and tenant relationship. Airports are local governmental facilities and each airline leases space from the airports to operate their business. Since airports and airlines are separate companies, airports are not connected to the airlines’ phone or computer systems. Therefore, the airports are unable to connect calls to the airlines’ desk or access the airline computer systems to provide information such as reservations, lost bags, etc. Most airlines operate central locations that provide customer service by phone and internet website for reservations, lost bags, etc. You must call the 800 numbers or go online to reach the airlines. It is the airlines decision as to whether they have local phone service available to the public. Airport staff are required to respect the airlines’ operating procedures and are not allowed to publish or release unlisted phone numbers.
What is the airport code for Fort Smith Regional Airport?
Our 3 letter identifying code is FSM. Some websites require a 4 letter code, which is KFSM.
How much is an airline ticket?
Each airline sets its own rates and schedules. Check with American Airlines by visiting their website aa.com or calling 1-800-433-7300.
Why should I fly from Fort Smith Regional Airport rather than drive to a larger airport to catch a flight?
Fort Smith Regional Airport is right in the middle of town – just minutes from anywhere in Fort Smith. There are minimal lines at the ticket counter and at the security checkpoint. Not only is the airport convenient, it is a beautiful facility that you will be proud to have your guests and business associates see. It is your local airport! Use it and enjoy it.
Is there a restaurant at the airport?
Not at this time. The airport offers coffee and vending machines in the secured area past the security checkpoint.
Restaurant or concessions vendors interested in operating at the airport can call the airport administration office at 479.452.7000 ext. 50 for information.
Does the airport offer tours for the area schools?
Yes. For Information, call the airport administration office at 479.452.7000 Ext. 50 or send us a message.
Does our airport have a control tower?
Yes. The Fort Smith Airport has an FAA operated air traffic control tower.
What size luggage can I take with me?
For airline luggage requirements, visit the American Airlines website.
There is bad weather predicted. How can I find out about my flight?
Decisions to delay or cancel flights are made by the airlines, not the airport. You can contact your airline directly by visiting AA.com or calling 1-800-433-7300, or view the airport’s Flight Status webpage. This screen shows the flight display screen located in the airport terminal lobby at the Fort Smith Regional Airport.
What items are prohibited in the security area?
For a list of items that are prohibited please check the TSA website.
How do I find out about advertising opportunities at the airport?
Please contact the airport administrative office (479-452-7000 Ext. 50)
Are smaller regional aircraft safe?
Yes. The high safety record achieved by regional airlines equals that of the major airlines. Jet engines power all regional aircraft, whether a turbo with propellers on the outside-or a turbofan with fans inside the engine casing. Turboprops are well suited to regional flights. They are designed to fly shorter distances more economically than large jets. Regional airlines operate under identical FAA regulations and safety standards as major airlines – including pilot training and rest requirements, safety equipment, and dispatching procedures. Regional Airline Association
How can I check the status of my flight?
Check for up-to-date arrivals and departures by visiting the Fort Smith Regional Airport’s website Flight Status page, or checking with the American Airlines directly at aa.com or calling 1-800-433-7300. American Airlines also has an app available on your smartphone that will send notifications of flight changes, including delays and cancellations, by phone notification, text or e-mail.
What does the TSA consider a liquid?
If you can POUR it, PUMP it, SQUEEZE it, SPREAD it, SMEAR it, SPRAY it or SPILL it. (Note: mascara and toothpaste ARE considered liquids.) For more information on other carry-on requirements, please visit the TSA website.
What time should I arrive at the Fort Smith Airport for my flight?
The airlines ask that you be at the airport one hour and thirty minutes before your flight. To check a bag, you must arrive at the ticket counter at least ONE HOUR before your flight. Please Note: In Fort Smith the airlines close the ticket counters 45 minutes before each flight. If you are not checked in and clearing security by that time you will not make the flight.
Where can I get information about my lost luggage?
American Airlines customers must call 1-800-433-7300 or visit AA.com to setup a claim for luggage delivery, or they can pick-up the luggage at the American Airlines ticket counter during local posted hours of operation. Current hours of operation as of May 2024* are:
- 8:00am – 12:00pm
- 4:30pm – 7:00pm
- 11:00pm – 1:30am
All luggage claims or questions must be handled with the airline employees. Airport staff has no access to or information about luggage claims.
*Local operating hours are subject to change. For guaranteed airline agent at ticket counter: click to check local flight DEPARTURES and arrive at the airline desk 1.5 hours prior to a flight departure.
Where do I report a noise complaint?
To report a noise complaint, please call 188th Air National Guard Public Affairs at 479-573-5323.
