The Empire State is not just about the bright lights of New York City—it’s also home to vibrant cities along the I-90 corridor. This major highway, known as the New York State Thruway, spans the breadth of the state, connecting Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany, among others. Alongside bustling highways, airports in these cities provide travellers with a faster way to reach their destinations while keeping them connected to the rest of the country and beyond.
Our new infographic, Spotlight on New York Airports along the I-90 Corridor, highlights these four key airports—the busiest in New York outside of NYC. Together, they boarded 6.4 million passengers in 2023, a 12.7% increase from 2022, reflecting their growing importance in aviation. Buckle up and let’s take off!
BUF – Buffalo Niagara International Airport
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 2,291,995 passengers
- Serving the city of Buffalo and the stunning Niagara Falls region, BUF is the busiest airport in upstate New York.
- Known for its easy access, affordable flights, and proximity to the Canadian border, BUF is a popular choice for both American and Canadian travellers.
- Buffalo, the second-largest city in New York, is celebrated for its revitalized waterfront, world-famous wings, and vibrant cultural scene.
SYR – Syracuse Hancock International Airport
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 1,412,853 passengers
- Located in the heart of Central New York, SYR connects travellers to the Finger Lakes, Adirondacks, and beyond.
- This modern airport features a sleek terminal and an ever-growing list of destinations.
- Syracuse is known for its snowy winters, Syracuse University, and dynamic arts and culinary culture.
ALB – Albany International Airport
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 1,376,492 passengers
- Serving New York’s state capital, ALB is the oldest municipal airport in the United States, having opened in 1928.
- The airport offers an extensive network of domestic flights, providing a gateway to the political and cultural hub of Albany.
- Albany is known for its historic architecture, proximity to the Hudson River, and role as a centre of state government.
ROC – Greater Rochester International Airport
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 1,325,357 passengers
- Serving Rochester, a city known for its innovation, festivals, and picturesque location along Lake Ontario, ROC is a friendly and efficient airport.
- The airport offers numerous non-stop flights and prides itself on ease of navigation for travellers.
- Rochester is renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and as the home of Kodak and several leading universities.
The Rise and Fall of Airports Along I-90
The I-90 corridor also holds aviation history. Utica’s Oneida County Airport (UCA), once a key hub for travellers, ceased operations in 2007. Commercial services were shifted to Griffiss International Airport (RME) in nearby Rome, a former Air Force Base repurposed for general aviation, cargo, and aerospace innovation. Unfortunately, RME currently lacks commercial airline service, leaving this part of the state reliant on road connections for air travel.
The Road Meets the Runway
The I-90 corridor is a highway for more than just cars—these airports prove how vital aviation is to the state’s connectivity. Whether you’re cruising along the New York State Thruway or soaring thousands of feet above it, the journey is a testament to the ingenuity and vibrancy of the Empire State.
Explore our Spotlight on New York Airports along the I-90 Corridor infographic, share it with fellow travellers, and celebrate the cities and airports that keep New York connected.
Looking for a unique gift or travel keepsake? YHM Designs offers a collection of airport code merchandise, including items for BUF, SYR, ALB, and ROC. Discover hats, mugs, and more featuring the airport codes of your favorite destinations.
Fly high, drive safe, and embrace the Empire State’s spirit of adventure!
How to cite:
Source: U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Illustration by YHM Designs.