Where is pvd

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: PVD refers to Providence, Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport (PVD), located about 6 miles south of downtown Providence. It serves as Rhode Island's primary airport, handling over 4 million passengers annually. The airport is named for former Rhode Island Governor and U.S. Senator Theodore Francis Green.

Key Facts

T.F. Green Airport (PVD) is located in Warwick, Rhode Island, approximately 6 miles south of downtown Providence
The airport served over 4.1 million passengers in 2023, making it New England's third-busiest airport
PVD was originally named Hillsgrove State Airport when it opened in 1931
The airport was renamed in 1964 to honor Theodore Francis Green, who served as Rhode Island's governor from 1933-1937
PVD covers 1,111 acres and has a single 8,700-foot runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft

Overview

T.F. Green Airport, designated with the IATA code PVD, serves as Rhode Island's primary commercial airport and a key transportation hub for southern New England. Located in Warwick, approximately 6 miles south of downtown Providence, the airport has evolved from a small municipal facility into a modern regional airport serving millions of passengers annually. The airport's strategic position between Boston and New York makes it an attractive alternative for travelers throughout the region.

The airport's history dates back to 1931 when it opened as Hillsgrove State Airport with a single grass runway. During World War II, the facility served as a military training base before returning to civilian use. In 1964, the airport was renamed to honor Theodore Francis Green, a former Rhode Island governor and U.S. Senator who championed aviation development in the state. Today, PVD operates as a joint civil-military airport, sharing facilities with the Rhode Island Air National Guard.

How It Works

T.F. Green Airport functions as a modern transportation hub with comprehensive facilities and services.

Terminal Operations: The airport features a single terminal building with two concourses (A and B) containing 20 gates total. The terminal spans approximately 300,000 square feet and underwent a $250 million expansion completed in 2017. Passenger facilities include modern security checkpoints, baggage claim areas, and various dining and retail options.
Air Traffic and Runways: PVD operates with a single primary runway (5-23) measuring 8,700 feet long and 150 feet wide, capable of handling wide-body aircraft like Boeing 767s. The airport averages approximately 150 daily commercial flights. Air traffic control is managed by the FAA, with the tower operating 24 hours daily to coordinate arrivals and departures.
Ground Transportation: The airport offers multiple ground transportation options including rental car facilities with 10 companies, taxi services, rideshare pickup zones, and public transit connections. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service to Providence and surrounding communities. A commuter rail station connecting to Boston's South Station is located adjacent to the terminal.
Cargo and Military Operations: PVD handles significant cargo operations with facilities for FedEx, UPS, and other freight carriers. The airport also hosts the 143rd Airlift Wing of the Rhode Island Air National Guard, which operates C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. This dual-use arrangement provides economic benefits while supporting national defense missions.

Key Comparisons

Feature	T.F. Green Airport (PVD)	Logan International Airport (BOS)
Distance to Downtown	6 miles to Providence	3 miles to Boston
Annual Passengers (2023)	4.1 million	36.3 million
Number of Runways	1 primary runway	6 runways
Parking Rates (Daily)	$20-30	$35-45
Airlines Serving	8 major carriers	40+ airlines
Security Wait Times	Average 10-15 minutes	Average 20-30 minutes

Why It Matters

Economic Impact: T.F. Green Airport generates approximately $2.3 billion in annual economic activity for Rhode Island and supports over 12,000 jobs directly and indirectly. The airport serves as a critical infrastructure asset that attracts businesses and supports tourism, with visitors spending an estimated $500 million annually in the region.
Regional Connectivity: PVD provides essential air service to a region of approximately 2 million people in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. The airport offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations including major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, and Orlando. This connectivity supports business travel, family connections, and economic development throughout New England.
Transportation Alternative: As congestion increases at larger Northeast airports, PVD offers a viable alternative with shorter security lines, easier navigation, and generally lower costs. The airport's proximity to both Providence and Boston (about 60 miles) makes it accessible to travelers throughout the region, helping to distribute air traffic and reduce pressure on the region's transportation network.

Looking forward, T.F. Green Airport continues to evolve with planned infrastructure improvements and service expansions. The Rhode Island Airport Corporation has outlined a strategic vision that includes terminal enhancements, sustainability initiatives targeting carbon neutrality by 2030, and potential runway extensions to accommodate longer-range international flights. As air travel demand grows in the Northeast corridor, PVD's role as an efficient, accessible regional airport will become increasingly important for both Rhode Island's economy and the broader transportation network serving New England.