Philadelphia boasts two major airports: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Wilmington Airport (ILG). Choosing the right one can significantly impact your travel time, depending on your origin and destination. This guide will help you determine which airport saves you the most time.
What is the difference between PHL and ILG?
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): This is the larger, busier airport, offering a vast array of domestic and international flights from numerous airlines. It's well-connected to the city via public transportation (SEPTA), taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. While convenient for many, the sheer volume of traffic can lead to longer wait times for security, baggage claim, and transportation.
Wilmington Airport (ILG): A smaller, regional airport, ILG offers fewer flight options, primarily serving smaller regional jets. It boasts shorter security lines and faster processing times. However, its location in Wilmington, Delaware, requires additional travel time to and from Philadelphia, offsetting some of the time saved at the airport itself.
Which airport is closer to Philadelphia?
While ILG is geographically closer to the city center of Philadelphia than PHL, the overall travel time isn't always shorter. PHL offers better public transportation options directly to downtown Philadelphia, often making the total travel time comparable, or even shorter, despite the greater geographical distance.
Which airport has shorter security lines?
ILG consistently boasts significantly shorter security lines than PHL. This is due to its smaller passenger volume. For travelers prioritizing speed and efficiency through security, ILG is the clear winner. However, remember this advantage is offset by the additional travel time to and from the airport.
How much time will I save by choosing ILG over PHL?
The time saved depends on several factors:
- Your origin and destination: If you're flying to a location with limited direct flights from PHL, and ILG offers a convenient connection, the time saved could be considerable. Conversely, if PHL offers a more direct route, the time spent traveling to ILG might negate any gains.
- Time of day and day of the week: Peak travel times at both airports will increase wait times.
- Your mode of transportation: Using public transport to PHL might be faster than driving to and from ILG, especially during rush hour.
It's impossible to give a precise time saving without specifics. However, anecdotally, many travelers report significant time savings using ILG, specifically during security and baggage claim, but the commute to and from the airport should be carefully considered.
What are the trade-offs between PHL and ILG?
| Feature | PHL | ILG |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Options | Extensive, Domestic & International | Limited, Primarily Regional |
| Security Lines | Typically Longer | Typically Much Shorter |
| Transportation | Excellent Public Transport Options | Requires Driving or Ridesharing |
| Amenities | More extensive | Fewer Amenities |
| Cost | Potentially Lower (Flights might be cheaper due to competition) | Potentially Higher (Flights might be more expensive due to limited competition) |
Which airport is best for me?
The best airport for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize speed through security and baggage claim, and don't mind a slightly longer commute, ILG might save you time. However, if convenience, flight options, and public transport access are paramount, PHL remains the superior choice for most travelers. Carefully weigh the trade-offs based on your specific circumstances before making a decision.
