The Lehigh Valley, nestled in eastern Pennsylvania, offers a charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. While not boasting a major international airport within its immediate vicinity, accessing air travel from the Lehigh Valley is surprisingly convenient. This comprehensive guide explores your flight options, addressing common concerns and providing valuable insights for travelers.
What Airports Serve the Lehigh Valley?
The Lehigh Valley doesn't have its own airport with major airline service. However, several airports within a reasonable driving distance offer a wide range of flight options. The most commonly used airports for Lehigh Valley residents are:
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Allentown Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): While smaller than major hubs, ABE offers direct flights to several key destinations, primarily within the United States. It's the closest option and offers the most convenient access for Lehigh Valley residents.
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Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away, PHL provides significantly more flight options, including many international destinations. It's a larger airport with more amenities but requires a longer commute.
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Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): About a 1.5-2 hour drive, EWR in New Jersey also offers a vast array of domestic and international flights. However, traffic congestion should be factored into travel time calculations.
Choosing the right airport depends on your destination, budget, and comfort level with travel time. Consider factoring in the cost of transportation to the airport, parking fees, and potential traffic delays when making your decision.
How Far is ABE Airport from the Lehigh Valley?
Allentown Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is incredibly convenient for those residing within the Lehigh Valley. It's located approximately 10-20 minutes from most areas in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, depending on specific location and traffic conditions. This close proximity significantly reduces travel time and stress compared to driving to more distant airports.
What Airlines Fly Out of ABE Airport?
ABE Airport serves several major airlines offering a range of destinations. Airlines currently servicing ABE include, but are not limited to, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and United Airlines. The specific airlines and routes available may vary seasonally, so it's always best to check directly with the airlines or through flight comparison websites for the most up-to-date information.
Are There Direct Flights From ABE Airport?
Yes, ABE airport offers numerous direct flights to several popular domestic destinations. However, for international travel, you'll likely need to connect through a larger airport like PHL, EWR, or another major hub. The availability of direct flights from ABE depends largely on the season and your destination.
What's the Cheapest Way to Get to an Airport from the Lehigh Valley?
The cheapest way to reach an airport from the Lehigh Valley depends on several factors, including your destination airport and the number of passengers. For ABE, driving your own car is often the most economical option, especially if you factor in the cost of ride-sharing services or taxis. For PHL or EWR, a ride-sharing service might be competitive, especially if travelling with others, but prices can fluctuate greatly depending on demand and traffic. Public transportation is not as readily available as driving or ride-sharing for these airports.
What are the Transportation Options to/from Lehigh Valley Airports?
Several transportation options are available to and from Lehigh Valley's neighboring airports:
- Driving: This offers the most flexibility and control over your schedule, especially for ABE.
- Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft): Convenient but can be more expensive than driving, especially during peak hours.
- Taxis: A more traditional option, but potentially the most expensive.
- Public Transportation (Limited): Bus services may exist to some airports, but check schedules and availability beforehand; this is generally less common and often less convenient.
Careful consideration of these factors will ensure you choose the most appropriate and cost-effective transportation method for your trip.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of flight options from the Lehigh Valley. Remember to book your flights and transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and avoid potential disruptions. Happy travels!
