Wilmington International Airport (ILM) serves Wilmington, North Carolina, in the United States. The airport lies approximately 3 miles from the city center, making it a quick and convenient transfer point for travelers arriving in or departing from the coastal region. At an elevation of 41 feet above sea level, the airport sits close to sea level, consistent with its position along North Carolina's coastal plain.

Given its modest elevation and proximity to the Atlantic coastline, Wilmington International Airport operates in an area where weather patterns are shaped by the region's maritime climate. Its low-lying location near the coast means travelers should be aware that conditions can be influenced by coastal weather systems typical of this part of the southeastern United States.

The short 3-mile distance between the airport and downtown Wilmington makes it an efficient gateway for both business and leisure travelers visiting the city and surrounding coastal areas. This proximity minimizes ground transportation time, allowing passengers to reach their destination quickly after landing or arrive at the airport with ease before departure. The airport's near-sea-level elevation is a defining physical characteristic that distinguishes it from airports situated at higher altitudes further inland.