Lancaster, Pennsylvania, doesn't have its own commercial airport, leaving travelers with a few choices depending on their priorities and the destination. This guide explores the various airport options for those flying from near Lancaster, weighing convenience, cost, and travel time. We'll help you choose the best airport for your next trip.
What are my closest airport options to Lancaster, PA?
Lancaster residents typically choose from three major airports:
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): This is often the most convenient option for many Lancaster residents, offering a good balance of flight options and accessibility.
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Another popular choice, PHL provides a wide range of domestic and international flights. However, it's generally further from Lancaster than BWI.
- Harrisburg International Airport (MDT): While closer geographically, MDT often has fewer flight options and potentially higher fares compared to BWI and PHL.
Which airport is closest to Lancaster PA?
While Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is geographically the closest, "closest" is subjective. Consider travel time and ease of access. Traffic conditions can significantly impact the overall travel time to any of these airports. BWI, despite being further, often presents a faster overall journey due to less congested routes for some Lancaster residents.
How far is Lancaster PA from BWI airport?
The distance between Lancaster, PA and BWI Airport is approximately 70-80 miles, depending on the exact location in Lancaster County. The drive typically takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
How far is Lancaster PA from Philadelphia Airport?
The drive from Lancaster, PA to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is longer, ranging from 75 to 90 miles. Expect a drive time of 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, heavily influenced by traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.
How far is Lancaster PA from Harrisburg Airport?
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is the closest geographically, approximately 30-40 miles from Lancaster. The drive usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, but again, traffic can impact this significantly.
What is the best airport to fly out of near Lancaster PA?
The "best" airport depends entirely on your individual circumstances:
- For the widest selection of flights and competitive pricing: BWI and PHL are generally the better choices.
- For the shortest driving distance: MDT is the closest, but may have fewer flight options and higher fares.
- For ease of access and potential lower parking fees: Weigh the driving time against parking costs at each airport. Smaller airports may have lower parking rates, offsetting the longer commute.
Thoroughly research flight options and parking costs for each airport before making your decision. Consider using flight comparison websites to find the best deals regardless of airport.
What is the best way to get to the airport from Lancaster?
Several options are available for getting to the airports from Lancaster:
- Driving: This is the most common method, offering flexibility and control.
- Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft): A convenient option, though potentially more expensive than driving yourself.
- Taxis: While available, taxis are likely to be the most expensive option.
- Shuttle services: Some companies offer shuttle services directly from Lancaster to the various airports. Research and book in advance, particularly during peak travel times.
Choosing the right airport to fly from near Lancaster requires careful consideration of several factors. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each airport, you can select the most suitable option for your next journey. Remember to factor in flight costs, travel time, parking expenses, and the availability of flights to your destination. Happy travels!
