Las Cruces International Airport, Las Cruces, NM
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Las Cruces International Airport (LRU, KLRU) is a non-towered public airport located 8 miles west of Las Cruces, in Dona Ana County, New Mexico. Owned by the City of Las Cruces, with three runways as follows:
| Designation | Dimensions | Surface | Condition |
| 12/30 | 7,500′ x 100′ | Concrete (grooved) | Good |
| 4/22 | 7,501′ x 105′ | Asphalt | Poor |
| 8/26 | 6,069′ x 100′ | Asphalt | Fair |
FBOs & Services
Southwest Aviation Inc. offers 100LL and Jet‑A fuel, line services, hangar and tie-down options, a pilot lounge, and general aircraft support.
Francis Aviation-Full‑service FBO operations with Jet-A and 100LL, ground handling, crew and passenger amenities, and transportation coordination.
Businesses on the Field:
Zia Aircraft Services (aircraft services) and Mesilla Valley Aircraft Owners Association (tenant organization).
Flight Schools:
Frost Aviation, on the field, or Air Speed Flying Services, listed in the city of Las Cruces.
Other Training Resources:
Pilot Institute: Clear, modern online ground school for new and returning pilots. Pilot Institute
Rod Machado Courses: Classic, humorous training with deep real-world explanations. Rod Machado’s Aviation Learning Center
Transportation
Crew cars are available from both FBOs, and each can arrange rental vehicles on request. However, there are no rental car counters or kiosks at this airport. Uber and Lyft both operate in Las Cruces, though there are no traditional taxi companies and no designated pickup zones. Travelers should meet their rideshare driver at the FBO curb or in the adjacent parking area.
A local black car option is also available through Elegance Limousines & Black Car Services, which provides 24‑hour chauffeured transportation in the Las Cruces area.
Local Sights
Where to Stay Near Las Cruces International Airport
Closest:
There is a cluster of hotels off of I-10 before you get to town: Drury Inn & Suites, Comfort Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott. Also close: Days Inn by Wyndham Las Cruces or La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Las Cruces Mesilla Valley.
Unique Stays:
Lundeen Inn of the Arts: A historic adobe inn filled with original Southwestern art, offering a quiet, creative stay just east of downtown Las Cruces. A distinctive alternative to chain hotels and one of the most character‑rich properties in the region.
Hacienda de Mesilla: A boutique hacienda‑style hotel in the heart of Old Mesilla, offering upscale Southwestern character, on‑site dining, and a uniquely regional atmosphere.
Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces is a distinctive, regional‑style hotel with New Mexico architecture and palm‑lined grounds.
Budget-friendly:
Super 8 by Wyndham Las Cruces/La Posada Lane or Motel 6 Las Cruces NM-Telshor
Where to Eat and Drink
There is no restaurant on the field at LRU. The closest non‑chain option is La Nueva Casita Cafe in Mesilla, serving classic New Mexican dishes about 10½ miles from the airport. It’s the nearest independently owned restaurant (family-operated) and a long‑running local favorite. Of course, there are fast-food chains closer to the airport; Wendy’s and Subway are right across I-10.
If you are going into town, Las Cruces has a “must‑experience” place. Located in historic Old Mesilla, La Posta de Mesilla has been serving New Mexican cuisine since 1939 in a former Butterfield Stagecoach stop. It’s iconic, atmospheric, and tied to the region’s identity. If you want another popular option, the Andele Restaurant is also loved by the locals. It’s casual, authentic, and consistently rated among the best places to eat in the area.
For drinks, there is the Game Sports Bar & Grill, Las Cruces’ long‑running, genuine local hangout. Or, the upscale option, D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro.
Things To Do
SkyFiesta of Las Cruces (Annual – October) A major aviation festival at Las Cruces International Airport featuring air races, aerobatic performances, static displays, STEM exhibits, hot-air balloons, vendors, and community activities. Dates vary year to year, typically mid‑to‑late October.
New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum-A 47‑acre indoor/outdoor museum showcasing the history, culture, and working traditions of New Mexico agriculture. Interactive exhibits, livestock demonstrations, and family‑friendly programming.
Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument-Rising dramatically east of Las Cruces, the Organ Mountains offer scenic drives, short hikes, and panoramic views. Dripping Springs is the most accessible trailhead for visitors.
Explore Historic Mesilla-About 10 miles from the airport, Mesilla is one of New Mexico’s most atmospheric districts, centered around its historic plaza, adobe architecture, local shops, cafés, museums, and the Basilica of San Albino. It’s the best place to experience authentic regional culture.
Las Cruces El Paso Weekend Wine Shuttle: about one hour at each location (3) to give you time to savor your wine, enjoy live music, take pictures, and socialize. Drinks are not included in the tour admission, and there is a $5-$20 tasting fee at each stop.
Why Fly Here
Las Cruces International Airport puts you close to some of southern New Mexico’s most distinctive landscapes and historic districts. Just a short drive from the field, you can explore the adobe architecture and Old‑World charm of Mesilla, wander the galleries and cafés around its historic plaza, or head east toward the dramatic Organ Mountains for scenic hikes and panoramic views. LRU offers easy access to culture, history, and outdoor adventure without the congestion of larger airports.
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