Pease Air Force Base

• Official Airport Website: flyportsmouth.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 603-433-6536 (Airport Administration and Pease Development Authority)
• Airport Address: 36 Airline Avenue, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA
• Email: info@peasedev.org (for general enquiries)
• Airport Social Media: Official page available on Facebook (@FlyPortsmouth)
• Lost Luggage Information: If luggage is lost during a flight, you must contact the airline (the main carrier is Allegiant Air). For items left in the terminal building or car park, contact the administration at +1 603-433-6536.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Questions can be asked via the feedback form on the official website in the "Contact Us" section.

Portsmouth International Airport at Pease is favourably distinguished by its transport accessibility. Since it is not located in the very centre of a metropolis, but in the neighbouring state of New Hampshire (approximately 5 km from the centre of Portsmouth and 80–90 km from Boston), serious traffic jams are rare here. The choice of transport depends on whether you are departing from central Portsmouth or travelling from Boston.

Bus Service

Unlike major hubs, there is no metro or direct commuter train to the terminal here. However, for travellers heading to or from Boston, there is an excellent option — C&J Bus Lines. This is arguably the most convenient way to reach the region without a car.

• Route: Buses run between Boston's South Station, Logan Airport, and the C&J terminal in Portsmouth, which is located right within the Pease Tradeport, in close proximity to the airport passenger terminal.
• Travel Time: The trip from Boston takes about 60–80 minutes depending on traffic.
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately 14–25 USD (it is recommended to check current prices on the carrier's website).
• Comfort: Buses are equipped with Wi-Fi and comfortable seats.

Taxi and Transfer

For short-distance trips, for example, from central Portsmouth or nearby hotels, it is most convenient to use ride-hailing apps (Uber or Lyft) or local taxi services.

• From Central Portsmouth: The ride will take just 10–15 minutes and cost approximately 15–20 USD.
• From Boston: A taxi or private transfer from central Boston will cost significantly more — often over 100–150 USD, so this option is justified only if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling as a group.

Car Rental

The airport features counters of well-known rental agencies such as Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget. This is an ideal option for those planning a trip around New England, heading to the White Mountains of New Hampshire or along the coast of Maine.

Rental offices are within walking distance or a minute's drive from the terminal. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the summer season and holidays.

Airport Parking

One of the main advantages of Pease Airport is the parking. There is no need to wait for shuttles or search for a free space for a long time.

• Location: The car park is located right in front of the terminal building, literally a few minutes' walk from the check-in counters.
• Cost: Prices here are substantially lower than those offered by Logan International Airport in Boston. Often, the first half-hour or hour may be free (for picking up passengers), and the daily rate remains quite reasonable.
• Features: The car park is open-air, operates 24/7, and is well-lit.

Alternative Airports Nearby

If tickets to Portsmouth (Pease) are unavailable, travellers often consider other transport hubs in the region. The nearest major competitor with a large number of flights is Manchester–Boston Regional Airport, located approximately 53 km away. For those planning a trip further north, a convenient option might be Portland International Jetport in Maine. Also within a two-hour drive are smaller regional hubs such as Worcester Regional Airport and Lebanon Municipal Airport, serving private and domestic flights.

The terminal complex at Pease Airport (PSM) is the complete opposite of giant labyrinthine hubs. All passenger infrastructure is concentrated in one compact two-storey building. Thanks to the simple layout and lack of confusing corridors, navigation here is intuitive even for those flying for the first time. Passengers appreciate this airport because the path from the entrance door to the boarding gate is practically a straight line.

Terminal Structure and Navigation

All passenger traffic is handled in a single common terminal. The building is divided into functional zones located in close proximity to each other:

• Ground Floor (Landside): This is the public access area. Immediately after entering, you will see airline check-in counters (mostly Allegiant Air) and self-service kiosks. Car rental counters and restrooms are also located here.
• Security Screening (TSA): The security checkpoint is literally a few steps from the check-in counters. Due to the small number of flights, queues here rarely form and move very quickly.
• Sterile Area (Airside): After passing screening, passengers enter the waiting lounge. This is a small but cosy space with panoramic windows offering a view of the airfield.

Features of Departure and Arrival Zones

Pease Airport does not use jet bridges. This is an important feature to be prepared for:

• Boarding: This takes place via exits on the first or second level, followed by walking onto the apron. Passengers walk to the aircraft on the tarmac and board using mobile stairs or ramps. This adds a bit of "old school" romance to the journey but requires attention to the weather (although the distance is minimal).
• Arrival Zone: After landing, passengers also walk to the terminal building. The Baggage Claim area is on the ground floor and consists of simple conveyor belts. Thanks to the airport's size, luggage delivery often begins just 10–15 minutes after the aircraft engines stop.

Time and Procedures

The main trump card of PSM is saving time. You do not need to budget 3 hours for pre-flight formalities here, as in major international airports.

• Check-in and Baggage Drop: It is recommended to arrive 90–120 minutes before departure, especially if you are flying with luggage during the peak holiday season. However, many experienced travellers note that on ordinary days, all procedures take no more than half an hour.
• Screening: Passing security control usually takes from 5 to 15 minutes. TSA staff work efficiently, and the compactness of the screening zone eliminates confusion.

Transfers and Transit

Since there is only one terminal, there are no internal airport walkways, shuttles, or trains here. All movement is on foot. If you are travelling in transit (which is rare for this airport, as it focuses on direct point-to-point flights), you will not have to leave the building or search for the right gate for a long time — all boarding gates are in one waiting hall.

Navigation Recommendations

It is practically impossible to get lost at Pease Airport. The main advice is to follow the signs immediately upon entry. If you arrived by car, the car park is right in front of the building facade, so moving suitcases will not be difficult. For passengers with reduced mobility, lifts and ramps are provided; airport staff are always ready to assist with boarding from the apron using special ambulifts or ramps instead of stairs.

The history of Pease Airport is a fascinating story of transformation. What is today a cosy civilian terminal was for decades a closed strategic facility playing a key role in US defence. For the modern tourist, this means that upon landing here, they touch the "concrete legacy" of the Cold War, adapted for the needs of peaceful travellers.

From City Airfield to Military Fortress

The history of the site began back in the 1930s when a modest municipal airport was opened in Portsmouth. However, radical changes came in 1951. At the height of the Cold War, the US Air Force purchased this land to create a strategic airbase. The facility received its current name in 1957 in honour of New Hampshire native Captain Harl Pease Jr., a World War II hero posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

The Era of Strategic Aviation

From 1956 to 1991, Pease Air Force Base served as home to the 509th Bombardment Wing of the Strategic Air Command (the very unit that dropped atomic bombs on Japan in 1945, although based elsewhere at the time). During these years, the airport was significantly expanded: huge hangars were built along with one of the longest runways on the East Coast, capable of accommodating heavy B-47 bombers and the legendary B-52 Stratofortress, as well as aerial refuelling tankers.

"Conversion" and New Life

The turning point in history was 1991, when the base was closed for active military service as part of an arms reduction programme. Unlike many other closed bases that fell into disrepair, a unique fate awaited Pease. Local authorities implemented an ambitious plan to turn the military facility into the Pease International Tradeport — a world-class trade and transport hub.

The civilian terminal opened for passenger transport while retaining part of the military infrastructure for the New Hampshire Air National Guard. This is one of the most successful examples of military facility conversion in the USA.

Modernisation and Present Day

In the 21st century, the airport continued to develop, but now with a focus on passenger comfort. In 2021, a massive reconstruction of the runway was completed, which lasted about two years and cost millions of dollars. The passenger terminal was also renovated and expanded: new waiting lounges were added and the screening area was improved to cope with the growing flow of tourists choosing this airport as an alternative to Boston.

Interesting Facts and Records

Its rich past has left Pease Airport with several unique features that not all travellers know about:

• Emergency Airfield for Shuttles: Thanks to its colossal runway (over 3,400 metres long), Pease Airport was for a long time on the list of emergency landing sites for the NASA Space Shuttle in case of a mission abort during launch.
• Presidential Visits: "Air Force One" with US Presidents periodically lands precisely here, rather than at the congested Logan, when the head of state visits the New England region.
• Military Neighbours: Although the airport is civilian, you can still see the grey tails of huge KC-46 Pegasus military tankers on the apron, as the 157th Air Refueling Wing continues to be based on a dedicated part of the airfield.

Services and amenities at Pease Air Force Base Airport (PSM) correspond to its status as a small regional hub. Here you will not find endless rows of Duty Free boutiques or luxury spas typical of mega-hubs. The main concept of the terminal is functionality and lack of excess. Passengers receive exactly what is necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight, without fuss or upselling.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

The choice of dining establishments here is modest but sufficient to have a snack before a flight.

• Before Security (Landside): On the second floor of the terminal (or in the adjoining building), there is often a full-service restaurant or grill bar, popular not only with passengers but also with locals thanks to the panoramic view of the runway. This is a great place for breakfast or lunch in a calm atmosphere.
• In the Sterile Area (Airside): After passing security control, a small cafe or kiosk with drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks is available to passengers. Please note that the selection of hot meals here may be limited.
• Shops: Shopping at PSM is minimal. Usually, there is a small kiosk with newspapers, souvenirs with New Hampshire symbols, and travel essentials.

Waiting Lounges and VIP Services

Portsmouth Airport does not have separate business lounges operated by airlines or network VIP zones (like Priority Pass). However, thanks to the low passenger volume, the general waiting hall is rarely overcrowded. There is ample seating, it is quiet and cosy, which effectively creates a business lounge atmosphere for all passengers.

Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Staying connected at PSM is easy and convenient. The airport provides free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Connection speed is generally high, allowing for comfortable work or video streaming.

To charge gadgets in the waiting lounge, there are power outlets and USB ports located in seat blocks or on special stands. Their quantity is usually sufficient for everyone.

Banks and Currency Exchange

Since most flights are domestic (or charter), there are no full-service currency exchange points in the terminal. ATMs are available for withdrawing US dollars. It is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance if you are arriving from abroad.

Medical Services

There is no stationary medical centre or pharmacy in the terminal. In case of feeling unwell, please contact airport staff or the information desk — personnel are trained in first aid and can promptly call emergency services. The nearest hospitals and pharmacies are located in the city of Portsmouth, a 10–15 minute drive away.

Services for Passengers with Children

Pease Airport is family-friendly, although there is no dedicated playroom here.

• Hygiene: Restrooms are equipped with changing tables.
• Entertainment: The best entertainment for children here is the huge windows overlooking the airfield, where you can watch aircraft (including military equipment) from a very close distance.
• Procedures: TSA staff at small airports are generally more understanding and patient when screening families with small children and strollers.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The airport fully complies with accessibility standards (ADA). Given the absence of jet bridges, special mechanised ramps or ambulifts are used for boarding and disembarking wheelchair passengers, eliminating the need to climb stairs. Restrooms and doorways are adapted for passengers with limited mobility. If you require assistance, it is recommended to notify the airline when purchasing your ticket.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels directly inside the terminal, but the airport is located within the Pease International Tradeport business park, where many hotels are situated. Most can be reached in 2–5 minutes by taxi or even on foot (if weather and luggage permit).

Popular accommodation options nearby:

• Hampton Inn Portsmouth Central — a comfortable chain hotel with breakfast.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront — suitable for extended stays.
• Fairfield Inn by Marriott — a convenient option for transit passengers.

Conference Rooms and Business Centres

There are no conference rooms in the terminal building itself. However, due to its location in the centre of business activity (Tradeport), business travellers can use the infrastructure of nearby hotels or office centres, which offer meeting rooms and event halls within a one-kilometre radius of the airport.

The gastronomic scene at Pease Airport (PSM) is characterised by austerity and functionality. Travellers should adjust their expectations in advance: this is a small regional terminal with no food courts, full-service restaurants, or a wide selection of chain establishments. The catering infrastructure here is designed solely so that passengers can have a snack before departure, but nothing more.

Where to Eat Inside the Terminal

The choice of food outlets depends directly on which zone of the airport you are in. Please note that opportunities to find hot food here are extremely limited.

• Sterile Area (Airside): The main food point is located in the waiting lounge, after passing security control (TSA). A small café-bar operates here. This is a classic "Grab & Go" establishment. The menu usually features cold sandwiches, wraps, light snacks (chips, nuts, chocolate), and drinks. There is also a counter where you can order coffee or various beverages before boarding.
• Public Area (Landside): Before passing screening, opportunities to refresh yourself are minimal. Vending machines with carbonated drinks, water, and packaged snacks are installed in the check-in and waiting area. There are currently no full-service cafes in this part of the terminal.
• Halal & Dietary Requirements: Please note that Halal-certified food options are generally not available within the terminal. It is strongly recommended to bring your own suitable food items if you have strict dietary requirements.

Alternatives Near the Airport (Pease Tradeport)

Since the selection inside the terminal is modest, experienced travellers prefer to dine before arriving at the airport. Fortunately, the airport is located within the Pease Tradeport business park, where excellent options are just a 2–5 minute drive away:

• Grill 28: A popular restaurant at the Pease Golf Club, located very close to the terminal. They offer a full menu with burgers, salads, and meat dishes in a pleasant atmosphere overlooking green fields.
• Chain Establishments: Within a kilometre radius of the airport entrance, you can find coffee shops (such as Starbucks) and fast-food outlets.
• Central Portsmouth: If you have spare time (at least 1.5–2 hours), it is best to head to the city centre (a 10-minute drive), which is famous for its seafood restaurants and cosy cafes.

Dietary Needs

Passengers with special dietary needs will find it difficult to find suitable food in the terminal (PSM) itself.

• Vegetarians: The café in the departure zone usually has cheese sandwiches or vegetable snacks, but the choice is small.
• Vegans, Gluten-free, Halal: Specialized options are practically non-existent. It is recommended to bring food with you — TSA rules allow solid food items in carry-on luggage.

Prices and Opening Hours

The pricing policy in the departure zone bar is slightly above average, which is typical for airports, but does not reach the markup levels of major international hubs.

• Average Bill: A snack (sandwich and drink) will cost approximately 12–18 USD.
• Operating Hours: The café in the departure zone is tied to the flight schedule. It opens approximately 2 hours before the first departure and operates until the last flight departs. On days with no flights or during long breaks between flights, the outlet may be closed.

Recommendations for Passengers

For a quick snack: If you are already in the terminal, proceed through security to the "clean zone" immediately. There you can buy a sandwich and a drink at the bar and settle comfortably by the panoramic window.

For a full meal: It is strongly recommended to eat in advance. Visit Grill 28 nearby or any restaurant in the Pease Tradeport business park before parking your car at the terminal. Inside the airport, there will be no opportunity for a substantial meal.

Travelling through Pease Airport (PSM) differs from the experience of flying through giant hubs. It is a small, calm, and highly efficient transport node. However, given the specifics of the main carrier (low-cost airline Allegiant Air) and the compactness of the terminal, there are several nuances that will help make your trip ideal.

Optimal Arrival Time

Despite the lack of long queues, you should not arrive at the airport at the last minute. The standard recommendation for PSM is to be at the terminal 1.5–2 hours before departure. This is due not so much to security queues (they usually move quickly), but to strict airline rules regarding the close of check-in and baggage acceptance. Counters often close exactly 45 minutes before departure, and being late by even a minute can result in denied boarding.

Check-in and Screening Secrets

Procedures at Pease Air Force Base take place in a relaxed atmosphere but require compliance with rules:

• Electronic Boarding Passes: It is strongly recommended to check in online and download the boarding pass to your phone in advance. In the small terminal, queues sometimes form at the single passenger assistance counter.
• Preparing for TSA: Screening here is standard for the USA. Be prepared to remove shoes, belts, and light jackets, as well as take laptops out of bags. Since there are few screening lanes, a delay by one passenger can hold everyone up.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

Since boarding is done on foot across the apron, passengers board via both stairs (at the front and rear), which speeds up the process. When choosing a seat, consider:

• Views: During take-off and landing, stunning views of the Atlantic coast and islands open up. Window seats are particularly valuable here.
• Comfort: If you are tall, it makes sense to pay extra for seats with extra legroom, as the standard seat pitch on budget carriers can be tight.

Carry-on Luggage: What is Allowed

The main nuance of Pease Airport is strict control of carry-on dimensions by airlines.

• Dimensions: Clearly distinguish between a "Personal Item" (e.g., a backpack that fits under the seat) and a full "Carry-on". You often have to pay separately for the latter. Staff at the gate may ask you to place the bag in a sizer.
• Food: You can bring solid food with you (sandwiches, fruit, snacks). This is strongly recommended, as the choice of cafes in the sterile zone is very limited.
• Liquids: The 3-1-1 rule applies: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in one transparent bag. Water cannot be brought through, but you can take an empty bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after screening.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Pease Airport is usually the final or starting point of a route, not a transfer hub. There is no transit zone in the usual sense here.

• Self-transfer: If you have two different tickets, you will have to collect your luggage, exit to the public zone, and go through check-in and screening again. Budget at least 2–3 hours for this, even taking into account the small size of the terminal.
• Risks: Given the small number of daily flights, a delay of the first plane may mean that the next flight to your destination will be only in a few days. Plan connections with a large margin or choose direct flights.

Customs Control

If you arrive on an international flight (which happens rarely, usually charters), the border crossing procedure is standard for the USA. Remember the strict ban on importing fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and seeds. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents check luggage selectively but thoroughly. Violation of phytosanitary norms threatens a large fine.

How to Save Time and Money

Using this airport itself saves money compared to Boston, but there are additional tricks:

• Paying for Baggage: Always pay for checked luggage and carry-on online when buying the ticket. At the airport, rates can be twice as high.
• Parking: This is one of the cheapest car parks in the region. You do not need to book a space in advance or look for private lots — the official airport parking offers the best conditions.
• Transfer: If you are going to Boston, the C&J Bus Lines bus often works out cheaper and faster (due to dedicated lanes) than renting a car and paying for parking in the city.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Delays happen, especially in winter due to weather. Since there are no capsule hotels or rich entertainment infrastructure in the terminal:

• Charging Gadgets: Take a seat near power outlets in advance.
• Content: Download films, books, or music to your devices at home. Wi-Fi at the airport is good, but with a full lounge, it may work slower.
• Overnight Stay: If the flight is cancelled, do not wait for the night in the terminal (it may close). Immediately book a room in one of the hotels in the Pease Tradeport business park — many of them are within walking distance or offer a free shuttle upon request.