Charleston International Airport
Charleston International Airport is the primary commercial gateway to historic Charleston, South Carolina, and the Lowcountry, located 12 miles northwest of downtown Charleston. CHS offers a 9,001-foot runway accommodating all heavy jets and most VIP-configured airliners. The airport serves travelers to Charleston's antebellum mansions, the historic Battery, Rainbow Row, and the exclusive resort islands of Kiawah, Seabrook, and Isle of Palms. Dedicated FBO facilities from Atlantic Aviation and Signature Flight Support provide premium private terminals. Estimated charter rates to Charleston via CHS: light jets from $4,000 per hour, mid-size jets from $5,500 per hour, heavy jets from $8,500 per hour.
Transworld Jets Insider Tip
Charleston has become one of the most sought-after destinations in America, with the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island consistently ranked among the top resorts in the US. Charleston Executive Airport (JZI) on Johns Island offers faster ground handling and is significantly closer to Kiawah and Seabrook Island resorts, making it the preferred choice for resort-bound travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heavy jets land at Charleston International?
Yes. Charleston International's 9,001-foot runway accommodates all heavy jets and most VIP-configured airliners including the Boeing BBJ and Airbus ACJ.
Which airport is best for Kiawah Island?
Charleston Executive Airport (JZI) on Johns Island is significantly closer to Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island resorts, typically 15 minutes away. CHS is about 30 miles from Kiawah and handles larger aircraft.
Why fly private to Charleston Chs?
Private aviation offers the fastest, most flexible access to Charleston Chs, bypassing commercial airline schedules and connections. Our brokers can arrange same-day charter flights to match your exact itinerary.
Aircraft Compatible with Charleston International Airport
Based on the longest runway (9,001 ft), the following aircraft categories can operate here.
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Lighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15/33 | 9,001 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
| 03/21 | 7,000 ft | 150 ft | Asp | ✓ Yes |
Nearby Alternative Airports
More Airports in South Carolina
Anderson Regional Airport
AND — Anderson
Beaufort MCAS - Merritt Field
KNBC — Beaufort
Columbia Metropolitan Airport
CAE — Columbia
Jim Hamilton L.B. Owens Airport
CUB — Columbia
Mc Entire Joint National Guard Base
MMT — Eastover
Florence Regional Airport
FLO — Florence
Greenville Downtown Airport
GMU — Greenville
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
GSP — Greenville/Greer/Spartanburg
Charter a Jet from Charleston
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- IATA Code
- CHS
- ICAO Code
- KCHS
- Elevation
- 46 ft
- Runways
- 2
- Longest Runway
- 9,001 ft
- Location
- Charleston, South Carolina