The Group Travel Guide to Airports in & Around Fort Smith, Arkansas

When you’re planning group travel by air, the last thing you want is to stress about how everyone will get to and from the airport. With Charter Bus Rental Fort Smith, your airport transportation is one less thing to worry about! Whether you’re flying out of Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM) or need a private shuttle to major hubs like XNA or Tulsa International, we have the right minibus, sprinter van, or charter bus for your group size and itinerary. Call 479-977-7210 and our team will help customize an airport shuttle service that keeps your entire group together, on time, and comfortable.

Quick Answer: Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM)

Fort Smith Regional Airport is the primary commercial airport serving Fort Smith and the surrounding River Valley region. Located just minutes from downtown, FSM is small but convenient—especially for business travelers, military personnel, and groups who value quick check-ins and short security lines. The airport is primarily served by American Airlines, offering direct flights to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD), where you can connect to global destinations.

Thanks to its manageable size, getting around FSM is a breeze. Your private shuttle bus can pick up and drop off right at the curb outside the main terminal. If you’re arriving with checked luggage or oversized gear (like musical instruments, sports equipment, or trade show displays), request a full-size charter bus with undercarriage storage to keep everything secure and out of the aisle. Onboard, enjoy reclining seats, WiFi for last-minute emails, and power outlets to charge devices before your flight.

If you have downtime before departure, grab coffee and pastries from Sweet Bay Coffee Co. inside the terminal. There’s also a small gift shop for souvenirs or travel essentials you may have forgotten. Military groups flying out of FSM can relax knowing their ground transportation is handled—we frequently provide shuttles to and from Fort Chaffee and other bases in the area.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)

Located about 70 miles northeast of Fort Smith, Northwest Arkansas National Airport (formerly Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport) is the largest airport in the region and offers far more flight options than FSM. Served by American, Delta, United, Allegiant, and Breeze Airways, XNA has nonstop service to over 20 cities including Atlanta, Denver, Las Vegas, New York-LaGuardia, Orlando, Phoenix, and Washington D.C.

If your group needs an early morning or late-night flight, or if you’re seeking lower fares and more destinations, XNA may be worth the drive. Renting a charter bus or minibus ensures everyone arrives together, avoids the hassle of parking multiple vehicles, and can relax en route. The drive takes about 90 minutes via I-49, and your driver will handle the navigation while you rest, review itineraries, or stream entertainment with onboard WiFi.

At XNA, buses use the Commercial Vehicle Lane directly in front of the terminal for easy loading and unloading. If you arrive early, there are several dining options past security, including Einstein Bros. Bagels, Auntie Anne’s, and Smokewood American Grill for sit-down meals. XNA also boasts art installations and rotating exhibits celebrating Ozark culture—a nice touch to start or end your trip.

Tulsa International Airport (TUL)

If you’re willing to cross state lines for greater airline selection or international connections, Tulsa International Airport is another solid choice. About 110 miles west of Fort Smith, TUL is a mid-sized airport with nonstop routes to more than 20 U.S. cities on Southwest, American, Delta, United, and Allegiant. It’s a popular option for groups who want to fly direct to destinations like Los Angeles, Houston, St. Louis, or even Cancun seasonally.

For large groups or those with lots of luggage, a charter bus ride to Tulsa is much less stressful than coordinating carpools. You’ll avoid long-term parking fees, ensure everyone stays on schedule, and have room to spread out during the two-hour trip along US-64 and US-412. Upon arrival, your bus can drop off passengers at the Departures level and then wait in the designated Oversized Vehicle Parking Lot if you need them to stay until your return flight.

Tulsa International’s terminal features local dining favorites like Fat Guy’s Burger Bar and Topeca Coffee, as well as national chains such as Starbucks and Chili’s Too. There are also plenty of shops for last-minute gifts or reading material. If your flight is delayed or you have a long layover, consider arranging a side excursion—the Tulsa Zoo and the Philbrook Museum of Art are both within a short drive and make for great group outings.

LITTLE ROCK NATIONAL AIRPORT

For the widest selection of flights within Arkansas, consider Clinton National Airport in Little Rock. As the busiest airport in the state, LIT offers nonstop service to major hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, and Washington D.C., primarily on American, Delta, Southwest, and United. That makes it a logical starting point for groups connecting internationally or seeking competitive fares.

Little Rock is about 160 miles southeast of Fort Smith, a drive of roughly 2.5 hours down I-40. A charter bus to the airport means your whole group can travel together, skip the headache of navigating unfamiliar city streets, and arrive refreshed instead of road-weary. Buses can unload passengers at the commercial vehicle zone outside the main entrance, and there’s ample space for luggage transfer.

Inside Clinton National, travelers will find a good mix of dining and shopping options. Grab a bite at Chick-fil-A, Burger King, or Ouachita Landing Café, or pick up Arkansas-themed gifts at the Old Mill General Store. The airport also hosts rotating art exhibits highlighting local artists. If you’re flying out of LIT on business, take advantage of the free WiFi and quiet seating areas to catch up on emails or prep for presentations.

SPRINGDALE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (ASG)

While not a commercial passenger airport, Springdale Municipal is worth mentioning for groups chartering private planes or organizing corporate aviation. Located in the heart of Northwest Arkansas, ASG caters to general aviation and is a hub for business jets, medical flights, and cargo operations. If your company is flying executives or clients in and out of Springdale, a charter bus or minibus can provide seamless transfers between the airport and hotels, offices, or event venues across Bentonville, Rogers, and Fayetteville.

The airport’s fixed-base operator (FBO), Summit Aviation, offers amenities like conference rooms, catering, and crew lounges. Your ground transportation will pull right up to the terminal, making it easy to load luggage and passengers without the crowds and delays of a commercial airport. For VIPs, request a luxury coach with leather seats, tinted windows, and onboard refreshments to ensure a first-class experience from runway to boardroom.

FORT SMITH REGIONAL: THE BEST CHOICE FOR LOCAL GROUPS

Of all the airports near Fort Smith, FSM remains the most convenient for most local groups. Its close proximity to downtown, short security lines, and reliable service to major hubs make it ideal for business travelers, school trips, sports teams, and more. Plus, with a dedicated airport shuttle from Charter Bus Rental Fort Smith, you can bypass the hassles of parking, rideshares, or public transit.

Our airport shuttles are fully customizable to fit your group’s needs. Need ADA accessibility? We’ll provide a coach with a lift and wheelchair securements. Traveling with kids or elderly passengers? Request extra luggage space and easy boarding steps. Hosting out-of-town guests for a wedding or conference? Book a multi-day shuttle service that covers airport pickups, hotel transfers, and local sightseeing.

Best of all, when you book with us, you get the peace of mind that comes from working with the leading charter bus provider in Fort Smith. Our reservation specialists know the ins and outs of every regional airport and will help you plan the most efficient route and schedule. From the moment you call for a quote to the minute your group boards the plane, we’re committed to making your airport transportation smooth, safe, and stress-free.

SCHEDULE YOUR FORT SMITH AIRPORT SHUTTLE TODAY

Ready to simplify your next group flight? Charter Bus Rental Fort Smith is here to handle all your airport transportation needs, big or small. Whether you’re catching a quick hop to Dallas from FSM or embarking on an overseas adventure via XNA or Tulsa, we’ll get you to the terminal comfortably and on time. Call 479-977-7210 today to speak with a reservation specialist and receive a personalized, all-inclusive quote for your airport shuttle service. With our flexible fleet, statewide coverage, and 24/7 support, you’ll see why we’re Fort Smith’s top choice for group travel by air!