Bakersfield, California, a vibrant city nestled in the southern San Joaquin Valley, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're a local planning a getaway or a visitor eager to explore this captivating region, understanding your air travel options is crucial. While Bakersfield itself doesn't have a major commercial airport, several convenient airports serve the area, offering diverse flight choices and connections. This guide will help you navigate your options and find the perfect flight to or from Bakersfield.
Which Airports Serve Bakersfield?
The lack of a large commercial airport in Bakersfield might seem limiting, but it's actually strategically positioned near several significant airports, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most commonly used airports for Bakersfield residents are:
- Meadow Lake Airport (BFL): This is Bakersfield's local airport, primarily serving general aviation. While it offers a convenient location, it doesn't handle commercial passenger flights. You'll find private jets, charter services, and flight schools based here.
- Bob Hope Airport (BUR) - Burbank: Located approximately 100 miles southwest of Bakersfield, Burbank Airport provides a relatively close alternative for commercial flights. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere than larger airports like LAX, with a good selection of domestic flights. The drive is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): A major international airport about a 2-hour drive (or more depending on traffic) from Bakersfield, LAX boasts a vast network of domestic and international flights. The trade-off is the considerably longer travel time to and from the airport and the greater potential for traffic delays.
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): Often confused with Bob Hope Airport, but they are the same airport. This is a popular choice for those seeking a shorter drive than LAX, with a more manageable traffic situation.
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): Situated to the north of Bakersfield, Fresno Yosemite International Airport offers a more regional focus. The drive is about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
What are the Pros and Cons of Each Airport?
Let's delve deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of each airport option:
Burbank Airport (BUR) Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Shorter drive than LAX: Significantly less travel time compared to LAX.
- Less congested: Generally experiences less traffic and airport congestion than LAX.
- Good flight selection: Offers a reasonable variety of domestic flight options.
Cons:
- Limited international flights: Lacks the extensive international flight network of LAX.
- Potentially higher fares: Flights from BUR can sometimes be more expensive than those from LAX, depending on the route and time of year.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive flight network: Offers a massive selection of domestic and international flights.
- Many airline options: Serves a wide range of airlines, increasing competitive pricing options.
Cons:
- Long drive from Bakersfield: Travel time is significantly longer.
- Traffic congestion: Can be prone to heavy traffic delays, impacting your overall travel time.
- Higher potential for delays: Larger airports are often more susceptible to delays due to weather or air traffic.
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Regional focus: Serves the central San Joaquin Valley, potentially offering competitive fares on certain routes.
- Relatively shorter drive than LAX: A shorter drive compared to LAX, though still considerable.
Cons:
- Limited flight options: Offers fewer airlines and destinations compared to LAX or BUR.
- Potentially longer layover times: May require longer layovers to reach your final destination.
How Far is Each Airport from Bakersfield?
This depends on the specific location in Bakersfield and current traffic conditions, but here’s a rough estimate:
- Burbank (BUR): 100-120 miles, approximately 1.5-2 hours by car.
- LAX: Approximately 100-110 miles, 1.5-2.5 hours by car (often longer due to traffic).
- Fresno (FAT): Approximately 80-90 miles, 1.5-2 hours by car.
What Airlines Fly Out of Airports Near Bakersfield?
The specific airlines operating out of each airport vary and change regularly. It's best to check directly with the airport or flight comparison websites for the most up-to-date information. Larger airports such as LAX will have a far greater variety of airlines.
How Can I Find the Cheapest Flights?
Several websites allow you to compare flight prices from various airports: Google Flights, Kayak, Skyscanner, and Expedia are good starting points. Remember to be flexible with your travel dates, as this can significantly impact the cost of your flights.
Finding your perfect flight from or to the Bakersfield area requires consideration of distance, flight options, and your budget. By understanding the pros and cons of each nearby airport, you can make an informed decision that ensures a smooth and efficient journey.
