Madison has just one airport, Portland Intl. Jetport Airport (PWM).

PWM is the only major airport in Madison. Before you head there, it’s a smart idea to research a thing or two about it. It is situated 72 kilometers from the downtown area.

Madison is serviced by 7 airlines from at least 19 airports across the globe.

Southwest Airlines operates the majority of the flights to Madison. Catching a Southwest Airlines flight from Baltimore is the preferred way to get there.

Organizing an exciting Madison escape is a cinch when there are 352 direct flights each week to choose from.

The most popular flights to Madison depart from Baltimore, Philadelphia and Charlotte airports.

If it’s Baltimore you’re departing, you’ll be in the air for around 1 hour and 25 minutes before you touchdown in Madison. Airport to airport from Washington typically takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and from Philadelphia, the average flight time is 1 hour and 26 minutes.

We all know those fortunate jet-setters who manage to land incredibly cheap plane tickets wherever they go. Eager to know how to do it for your Madison vacation? Don’t leave it until the very last minute to secure your flight. Another excellent way to pick up a bargain is to compare all options. If your destination has several airports, don’t forget to research the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. And finally, don’t forget that it’s first in, best dressed. Familiarize yourself with airfare costs and be ready to secure your ticket as soon as you spot a bargain. The best deals don’t last long.

If you’re not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there’s no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Madison.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you’ll want some basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don’t have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and remember to bring a sweater as it tends to get cool in the cabin on long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a good choice too.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. But the great news is there are ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander through the cabin as often as you can and wear compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you’ll be hopping onto that plane to Madison in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don’t have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a zip-close bag, it’s OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won’t allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.