If you are traveling to New York State for the first time, or you have never been to America before, the counties in the westernmost part of New York, such as Erie and Niagara, should be on the top of your traveling list.
While people from around the world visit all of state for its countless fantastic man made attractions, recreational facilities, and natural wonders, the number of people traveling all the way to Western New York is often found to be the largest.
In case you are wondering why New Yorkers and foreigners love visiting the western region of this American state, it is for the unparalleled sites and attractions of this area that cannot be found anywhere else in all of New York.
From the thunderous and captivating Niagara Falls to some of the most ancient natural caverns and manmade historical underground tunnels, any time you visit County or Buffalo city, returning without being completely won over and impressed is next to impossible.
However, what is the best way to get to this part of State?
While some people choose to drive or travel by bus to Western New York, the best and most popular option for getting to your dream region is by flying to the incredible Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
Known for being the third busiest airport in all of New York, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport is both an architectural wonder and a stunning airport with facilities and services second to none.
Not only is this historic airport used to get to Buffalo City and Niagara County, but its two massive runways, designed to support aircraft traffic of 100 nonstop flights per day, helps travelers connect to more than 30 different international and domestic destinations.
To learn more about the Buffalo Niagara International Airport’s location, its history, and its popular facilities and food places, keep reading below.
Where is It Located and How to Get there?
People who have a knack for traveling usually are also found to have a deep love and appreciation for airports.
The spotless floors, well-uniformed staff, range of different international cuisines, and the sight of monstrous aircrafts landing and taking off; there is something about visiting an international airport that can get people of all ages extremely excited.
Hence, if you either want to fly to Buffalo Niagara International Airport, or use that airport to fly to another destination, make sure you have sufficient time to explore and enjoy the many facilities and services provided at the airport.
Located on Genesee Street, in the town of Cheektowaga, in Buffalo City, Erie County, Western New York, the beautiful two-story airport is built on a whopping 1000 acres of land.
If you live in Buffalo city and wish to go to the airport, you can choose to take a taxi or can even call the send a taxi, a rental car, a limousine, etc., to go get you.
Moreover, if you are traveling to western New York via the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, you can once again use the same taxi, rental car, or airport shuttle facilities to move around the city and visit its many attractions.
Although the Buffalo Niagara International Airport remains open throughout the year, travelers are advised to check the flight schedule for any delays or cancellations before they leave for the airport.
Furthermore, if you plan on driving to the airport on your own, simply visit the airport’s official webpage for extremely helpful directional guidance and the live map.
The History of this Airport
The Buffalo Niagara International Airport, known for being one of the oldest airports in the country, was first built in 1926 after a few local aviation enthusiasts persuaded the Buffalo city officials to build the first regional airport.
In the beginning, the airport was built on just 200 acres of Cheektowaga farmland; however, by 1929, after years of expansion, the airport had finally spread over 1000 acres.
By May of 1939, after nine years of requests from the locals, an airport administration building was built, and a new apron was also added just after a few more months.
When World War 2 began, most of the airfield facilities at the airport were badly damaged, and it was not until the early 1950s that restorations and improvements finally began.
As the Buffalo Niagara International Airport began getting more popular, its passenger inflow increased drastically. Hence, by 1955, the passenger terminal tripled, and 11 airport gates were opened.
As time passed and more airlines requested additional gates, a study to assess the long-term requirements of the airport was made, which resulted in a West Terminal being built by 1971.
However, by 1996, another analytic assessment resulted in the demolition of both the western as well as eastern terminals for the construction of a single, larger, passenger terminal. This decision proved wise, as the average daily flights grew from 94 to 130.
Over the following years, many fantastic changes and outstanding improvements were made to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, which greatly helped enhance the airport’s overall visual aesthetics and boost passenger delight.
The Facilities and Food
Some of the popular facilities you might come across when traveling via the Buffalo Niagara International Airport are as follows:
- The airport provides a taxi and shuttle service that travelers can use to visit some of the most popular regional attractions.
- Travelers can buy from some of the souvenir and international shops at the airport
- The airport can help travelers book a room at the nearest possible hotel
- Other services and facilities at the airport include a meet and greet area, a pet relief area, free WIFI, mobile phone charging lounges, EV charging stations, and a barber shop.
Moreover, if you wish you grab a bite before your flight, you have the option to eat at some of the following airport food places:
- Tim Hortons
- BurgerFi
- Queen City Kitchen
- The Coffee Beanery
- Anchor Bar
Final Thoughts
Known for being the third busiest airport in the state of New York State, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a stunning airport with some of the best passenger facilities and services.
With a total of 25 operational gates, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport is indeed a true symbol and reflection of the region’s commitment, growth, and futuristic approach.