Bakersfield, California, doesn't have a major commercial airport within its city limits. This often leaves visitors wondering about their travel options. This guide simplifies the process of finding the closest airports to Bakersfield, considering factors like distance, transportation options, and flight frequency. We'll also address common questions travelers have.
What's the Closest Airport to Bakersfield?
The closest airport with significant commercial flight options is Meadow Lake Airport (BFL) in Bakersfield itself. While it serves smaller aircraft and general aviation, it is often overlooked. It's suitable for private flights or those arranging charter services.
For most commercial travelers, however, the most practical nearby airports are:
- Meadow Lake Airport (BFL): As mentioned, this is geographically closest but might have limited commercial services.
- Bob Hope Airport (BUR) in Burbank: Approximately 100 miles away, Burbank offers a wider array of flights to various destinations, making it a popular choice for those comfortable with a longer drive.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Around 110 miles away, LAX is the busiest airport in the region and offers extensive domestic and international flights. However, the longer travel time should be considered.
The "best" airport depends entirely on individual needs and priorities.
Which Airport is Best for Me? (Considering Budget and Time)
This largely depends on your travel priorities:
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Budget-conscious travelers: Driving to Burbank (BUR) might be cheaper than flying to LAX and then taking ground transportation. However, factor in potential gas costs and driving time. BFL could be the most economical if you're using a private or chartered flight.
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Time-conscious travelers: LAX (despite the longer drive) offers more flight options and potentially shorter layovers. However, the travel time from LAX to Bakersfield must be factored into your overall travel time. Flying into BUR reduces travel time, making it a good compromise.
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Frequency of Flights: LAX undoubtedly boasts the most frequent flights, followed by BUR. BFL has very limited scheduled commercial flights.
Ultimately, compare flight costs and schedules to the ground transportation costs and time required to get to Bakersfield from each airport. Use flight comparison websites to find the best deals.
How far is Bakersfield from LAX Airport?
Bakersfield is approximately 110 miles from LAX, requiring roughly a 2-3 hour drive, depending on traffic.
How far is Bakersfield from Burbank Airport?
Bakersfield is approximately 100 miles from Burbank Airport (BUR), with a drive time of around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
What transportation options are available from the airports to Bakersfield?
- Rental Car: The most common and often most convenient option.
- Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft): readily available but can be more expensive than a rental car, especially for groups.
- Bus services: Some bus companies might offer routes, but these are typically less frequent and might require transfers.
Are there any shuttle services from airports to Bakersfield?
While dedicated shuttle services directly to Bakersfield from LAX or BUR are less common, you might find private shuttle services offered by hotels or tour operators. It’s best to contact your hotel or search for private shuttle options online.
Conclusion
Choosing the best airport for travel to Bakersfield depends on individual needs. Weigh the factors of distance, cost, flight frequency, and available transportation when making your decision. This guide provides a framework to help you make an informed choice for your trip. Remember to check flight availability and prices in advance to secure the best deals.
