Bakersfield, California, doesn't have a major international airport, leaving many travelers wondering about their best departure options. Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your travel experience, affecting factors like convenience, cost, and flight availability. This guide will help you navigate the choices and find the perfect airport for your Bakersfield departure.
What Airports Serve Bakersfield?
While Bakersfield itself doesn't boast a large airport capable of handling numerous international or long-haul flights, several airports within a reasonable driving distance offer excellent alternatives. The most commonly used airports for Bakersfield departures are:
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Meadows Field Airport (BFL): This is the closest airport to Bakersfield, offering a convenient option for shorter domestic flights. However, flight choices and destinations might be limited compared to larger hubs.
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Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): A major international airport, LAX provides a vast network of domestic and international flights, but it comes with the trade-off of a longer driving distance from Bakersfield (approximately 100 miles). Expect heavier traffic and potentially longer travel times.
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Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): A smaller airport than LAX but still offering a decent selection of flights, Burbank presents a middle ground between convenience and flight options. The drive from Bakersfield is shorter than to LAX but still requires significant travel time.
Which Airport is Best for Me?
The "best" airport depends entirely on your individual travel needs and priorities. Let's consider some key factors:
How far am I willing to drive?
This is a crucial question. The convenience of Meadows Field (BFL) is undeniable for shorter trips and less hectic travel. However, if your destination requires flying from a major hub with numerous connecting flights, the extra driving time to LAX or BUR might be worthwhile.
What is my budget?
Parking fees at larger airports like LAX can be substantially higher than at smaller airports like BFL. Additionally, flight costs might vary depending on the airport and airline. Factor in gas costs for the drive to your chosen airport.
What type of flight am I taking?
For domestic flights to popular destinations, BFL might suffice. However, for international flights or flights to less-served locations, LAX is the clear winner due to its extensive flight network.
What about flight availability and prices?
Flight availability and prices are highly dynamic and depend on the time of year, destination, and airline. It's crucial to use flight comparison websites and check prices for your desired travel dates across all three airports (BFL, LAX, BUR) to make an informed decision. Flexibility in your travel dates can also significantly impact pricing.
Are there any other airports I should consider?
While less common, some travelers might consider flying out of Ontario International Airport (ONT), though it's significantly further from Bakersfield than LAX or BUR and may not offer any considerable advantages unless your destination has better connections from ONT.
How long does it take to get to each airport from Bakersfield?
Travel time varies depending on traffic, but here’s a general estimate:
- BFL: 15-30 minutes
- LAX: 1.5-2.5 hours
- BUR: 1-1.5 hours
- ONT: 2.5-3.5 hours
Choosing the right airport for your Bakersfield departure requires careful consideration of your individual circumstances. By weighing the factors of distance, cost, flight availability, and your destination, you can make the best decision to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Remember to book your flights and transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
