Smith-Reynolds Airport

Smith Reynolds Airport is not merely a runway, but a genuine piece of aviation history in the city of Winston-Salem. Once the primary air hub of the region, welcoming and sending off the first commercial flights, today it has transformed into a modern centre for private and business aviation while retaining its comfort and unique atmosphere. For those who value speed, comfort, and exclusivity, Smith Reynolds serves as the perfect gateway to this corner of the USA.

The main feature of Smith Reynolds Airport is its specialisation. You will not find the hustle and queues typical of large international hubs here, as it is oriented towards general aviation: private planes, corporate jets, and charter flights. This makes it incredibly convenient for business travellers and those seeking a personalised approach. Thanks to its location just a few minutes' drive from the business centre of Winston-Salem, arrivals can reach their destination as quickly as possible.

Beyond convenience, the airport is renowned for its history and active community life. Its grounds regularly host the famous Winston-Salem Air Show, attracting thousands of spectators with thrilling performances by aerobatic teams and displays of rare aircraft. For pilots and aircraft owners, modern Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) are available, offering a full range of services — from refuelling to hangar storage.

To obtain current information regarding the operations of Smith Reynolds Airport (INT), you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.flysmithreynolds.com
• Information Service Phone: +1 336-776-6000
• Airport Address: 3801 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27105, USA
• Email: It is recommended to use the contact form on the official airport website for enquiries.
• Social Media: Current information and news can be found on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: In the event of lost luggage, please contact your airline's representative first. If items were lost within the terminal grounds, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all general enquiries, you may contact the main airport phone line: +1 336-776-6000.

Smith Reynolds Airport (INT) is located just a few kilometres northeast of the city centre of Winston-Salem, making it easily accessible for travellers. There are several ways to reach the airport, depending on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) bus network serves the city, and some routes pass near the airport. This method may require transfers and take more time, so it is recommended to check the schedule and routes on the official WSTA website in advance. This is a good choice for travellers without large luggage who wish to save money.

Taxis and Ride-sharing Services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from downtown Winston-Salem will take approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost is moderate, making this an excellent compromise between price and comfort, especially if you are travelling with luggage or in a group.

Car Rental or Personal Transport offers maximum flexibility. If you plan to explore the region, renting a car may be the best solution. Smith Reynolds Airport has parking facilities offering both short-term and long-term options at reasonable rates. The route from the city centre is straightforward and does not take much time.

It is worth noting that Smith Reynolds Airport primarily serves private and corporate aviation. Most commercial flights to the region arrive at Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), located approximately 30 minutes away by car. Other major air gateways within a few hours' drive include Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), offering a wider selection of flights across the USA and the world.

Smith Reynolds Airport (INT) in Winston-Salem plays a significant role in the region's aviation infrastructure, but it is important to understand its specific nature. Today, it is primarily an airport for general, corporate, and private aviation, rather than for scheduled commercial passenger flights. Therefore, its structure differs from large international hubs.

The airport operates with one main terminal. This is a historic Art Deco building that has been restored and now serves as the airport's administrative centre. Inside the terminal, there are no standard departure and arrival zones for mass passenger flows, as it does not service major airlines. Instead, it houses airport administration offices and, more importantly for private flight passengers, ground handling operators known as Fixed-Base Operators (FBO). These companies provide a full range of services for private jets and their passengers.

Check-in and security procedures for charter and private flight passengers are significantly faster and take place in a more comfortable environment than at commercial airports. Passengers usually complete all formalities in special lounges or at the offices of their FBO. This avoids long queues and keeps pre-flight waiting time to a minimum. The time required to complete all procedures rarely exceeds 20-30 minutes.

Navigation at Smith Reynolds Airport is extremely simple. Since all services are concentrated around one terminal and a few FBO buildings, it is virtually impossible to get lost. The main advice for travellers departing from or arriving at INT is to clarify in advance which operator (FBO) is handling your flight. Upon arrival at the airport, simply follow the signs to your operator's office, where you will be met and provided with all necessary instructions.

The history of Smith Reynolds Airport (INT) is closely intertwined with the development of aviation in Winston-Salem and throughout the USA. The official opening of the airfield took place on 11 November 1927; initially, it was a private facility for the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The airport was named in honour of Zachary Smith Reynolds, the youngest son of the tobacco empire's founder and a passionate aviator who died tragically in 1932. This step immortalised his contribution to early flight history.

In the 1930s and 1940s, Smith Reynolds became an important transport hub. In 1934, the first terminal was built here, and in 1941, it was replaced by a new, larger Art Deco building, which stands today as a historical landmark. The airport was a key point on Eastern Air Lines routes. But perhaps the most significant event in its history was the founding of Piedmont Airlines here in 1948. It was from Smith Reynolds that the company launched its first flights, eventually growing into one of the country's largest carriers.

During World War II, the airport played a strategic role, serving as a base for the US Army Air Forces, where pilots were trained and transport aircraft were serviced. It was during this period, in 1942, that the city of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County purchased the airport, making it a public facility. In the post-war years, it remained the primary airport for the entire Piedmont Triad region, servicing flights for giants such as United and Capital Airlines.

With the expansion of the neighbouring Piedmont Triad Airport (GSO) in the 1980s, which was more centrally located, the majority of commercial passenger traffic shifted there. However, this did not mark the end for Smith Reynolds. The airport successfully repurposed itself and is today a thriving centre for business, private, and cargo aviation. It is home to numerous aviation companies, maintenance bases, and flight schools, continuing to play a vital role in the region's economic life.

Today, Smith Reynolds Airport is not just runways, but a living monument to the "Golden Age" of aviation. The preserved historic terminal serves as a reminder of times when air travel was a true adventure. An interesting fact: the airport was the launchpad for one of the most successful regional airlines in US history, making it a landmark location not only for Winston-Salem but for all American civil aviation.

Smith Reynolds Airport (INT), serving the city of Winston-Salem, provides passengers with a set of essential services necessary for a comfortable journey. Although the airport is primarily focused on private and corporate aviation, conditions have been created here for passenger convenience.

Within the terminal area, you will find basic options for refreshments — a café or vending machines with drinks and snacks. The selection of shops here is limited, so it is better to plan purchases in the city itself. For comfortable waiting, passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in departure zones.

Financial services are represented by ATMs. It is important to note that currency exchange bureaus are generally absent in small regional airports in the USA, so it is worth arranging for cash in the local currency in advance. Specialised lounges or VIP services are most often provided through private aviation operators (FBOs) servicing business jets.

The airport is fully equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility and provides necessary assistance during boarding and movement through the terminal. For travellers with small children, changing tables are available in the restrooms.

Although there are no hotels or large business centres within the airport building itself, numerous hotels and conference halls are located in the immediate vicinity. Guests can easily find suitable accommodation or a venue for a business meeting just a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

When planning a snack or lunch at Smith Reynolds Airport (INT), it is important to consider its specific nature. This airport primarily services private, corporate, and cargo aviation, rather than being a major hub for scheduled commercial passenger flights. Consequently, the infrastructure for passengers, including dining establishments, differs significantly from large international airports.

Within the Smith Reynolds Airport terminal, you will not find a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, or food courts. Dining options are generally limited to vending machines with drinks and light snacks (crisps, chocolate bars). Full hot meals, as well as special options such as vegan or gluten-free items, are not presented here.

The best strategy would be to eat before arriving at the airport or to plan a meal in the city after departure. Winston-Salem offers a multitude of excellent cafés and restaurants to suit every taste and budget, located just a few minutes' drive from the airport. If you have time before your flight, exploring the local culinary scene will be a wonderful addition to your journey through the USA.

It is important to understand the specifics of Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem. Currently, it functions as a General Aviation airport and does not service scheduled commercial flights by major airlines. If you have a ticket for a standard passenger flight, you likely need the neighbouring Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO). However, if you are flying via private jet or charter through Smith Reynolds, the following tips will help plan your trip.

Arrival time at the airport. The standard "arrive 2 hours early" rule does not apply here. For departure on a private vessel, it is usually sufficient to arrive at the ground handling operator's (FBO) terminal 20–30 minutes before the agreed departure time. This is enough time to meet the crew and load luggage without rushing.

Check-in and Security. Procedures here take place in a maximally comfortable mode. You will not have to stand in long TSA queues or remove shoes and belts. Document and luggage checks are carried out by FBO staff or the crew quickly and confidentially. Nevertheless, always keep your identification with you, as security requirements remain mandatory.

Seat Selection. Since there are no scheduled flights, the usual system of selecting a window or aisle seat during online check-in is irrelevant. On board business jets or small aircraft, seating is often open. In some cases, the pilot may ask passengers to occupy specific seats to ensure the correct centre of gravity (weight balance) of the aircraft.

Hand Luggage. In private aviation, liquid restrictions (the famous 100 ml rule) often do not apply, so you may bring drinks and toiletries on board without limits, if agreed with the operator. However, it is strictly forbidden to transport weapons, explosives, and dangerous goods without special permits.

Recommendations for connecting passengers. Traditional "flight-to-flight" connections within a single terminal generally do not occur here. If Winston-Salem is part of a complex itinerary where you are transferring from a private plane to a commercial one, be sure to allocate time for the transfer (about 30–40 minutes) to Piedmont Triad Airport (GSO).

Customs Control Features. When arriving on an international flight, border and customs procedures are conducted either directly on board the aircraft or in a special zone of the FBO terminal. This happens much faster than in large hubs, but the obligation to declare cash amounts exceeding $10,000 and certain goods remains.

Time-saving Tips. The main advantage of Smith Reynolds Airport is speed. You can use parking services in the immediate vicinity of the FBO terminal or, in some cases, drive directly up to the aircraft steps (valet parking), which reduces the time from arrival at the airport to take-off to a minimum.

Actions during flight delays. Unlike commercial airlines, here you have direct communication with the pilots or the charter manager. If you are running late, the plane can often wait for you. In the event of non-flying weather, the wait takes place in comfortable terminal lounge zones with access to Wi-Fi and beverages.