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Reno–Tahoe International Airport (RNO) sits just three miles southeast of downtown Reno, Nevada, and ranks as the second-busiest airport in the state, welcoming over 4.7 million travelers annually. Managed by the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, RNO features a single, easy-to-navigate terminal divided into two main concourses: Concourse B and Concourse C, offering a combined total of 23 gates with jet bridges.
At an elevation of 4,415 feet, this airport spans 1,450 acres and also plays a vital military role as the base of the Nevada Air National Guard’s 152nd Airlift Wing, home to C-130H Hercules aircraft. A series of upgrades in recent years—most notably a $70 million renovation finished in 2010 and a $24 million terminal expansion in 2013—gave the facility a fresh, mountain-inspired look, centralized security, and a new High Mountain Marketplace. Improvements are ongoing to further enhance the passenger experience.
Terminal Overview
RNO’s two-level terminal is designed for comfort and convenience:
- Lower level (Arrivals): Hosts five baggage carousels, car rental counters, and curbside access for shuttles, taxis, and rideshares.
- Upper level (Departures): Offers ticketing desks, a single TSA checkpoint (open from 4:00 AM), and escalator access to the post-security concourse hub.
From this central hub, travelers can easily reach both concourses on foot within 5–10 minutes.
Concourse B
consists of 11 gates (B1–B11) and is typically the busier of the two, primarily serving leisure travelers. It’s home to Southwest (RNO’s leading airline), Alaska Airlines, Spirit, JSX, and Volaris (which operates international flights to Mexico). The concourse stretches west from the hub and features rustic design elements inspired by Lake Tahoe—think natural wood tones and wide walkways.
Food & Drinks:
- Tap & Pour (Gate B4) – Known for local craft beers like Revision Brewing’s Hazy IPA and pub-style meals.
- Peet’s Coffee (near Gate B2) – Offers espresso drinks, pastries, and breakfast bites.
- Hudson News (Gate B6) – Stocks healthy snacks, water, and grab-and-go items.
Rest Zones:
- Gate B8 features padded seating with power outlets and tarmac views.
- Toward Gate B10, foot traffic thins out—perfect for stretching out during delays.
Things to Do:
- Interactive screens near Gate B3 dive into Reno’s history, including its iconic casino culture.
- No Boundaries (Gate B5) sells outdoor gear and locally themed souvenirs.
- At Gate B11, watch both commercial aircraft and National Guard C-130s in action.
Tips & Features:
- Volaris passengers go through customs at the Federal Inspection Station at Gate B1 (open 10 AM–8 PM).
- Pet relief area is near Gate B6.
- For Southwest travelers, early online check-in is essential due to open seating.
Concourse C
with 12 gates (C1–C12), caters more to business travelers and connects to major U.S. hubs through American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and United. Extending east from the hub, this concourse is quieter and features tasteful Tahoe-style décor like stone finishes and skylights.
Food & Drinks:
- Timber Ridge (Gate C4) – Highlights include grilled trout and craft cocktails, all with runway views.
- La Brea Bakery (Gate C8) – Offers soups, sandwiches, and artisan breads.
- Starbucks (Gate C2) – For coffee lovers who need their regular fix.
- CNBC News (Gate C6) – A solid option for snacks, bottled drinks, and reading material.
Rest Zones:
- Comfortable padded seats and charging stations await near Gate C6.
- Gate C10 is typically the quietest, ideal for catching up on work or taking a quick nap.
Things to Do:
- Digital exhibits near Gate C2 spotlight nearby ski resorts and Olympic history.
- InMotion (Gate C5) sells headphones, chargers, and regional travel books.
- From Gate C12, large windows offer fantastic views of takeoffs and landings.
Tips & Features:
- Gate C12 uses dual jet bridges to board larger aircraft like Delta’s A320s.
- American flights to Dallas tend to crowd Gate C4—arrive early.
- JetBlue’s JFK-bound flights depart from Gate C10 and are often busy—plan ahead.
Reno–Tahoe International Airport may not be the largest hub, but its thoughtful design, regional personality, and efficiency make it a favorite among frequent flyers and casual vacationers alike. From locally inspired dining to scenic views of the Sierra Nevada, RNO offers a welcoming start—or end—to any Northern Nevada journey.
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Brian Mitchell