Olympia Regional Airport (OLY) often gets overlooked, but for travelers in and around Thurston County, Washington, it's a surprisingly smart choice that can save you significant time and money. While larger airports like Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offer more flight options, the convenience and cost savings of flying into OLY make it a compelling alternative for many. This article explores why choosing Olympia Regional Airport is often the best decision for your travel needs.
Why Choose Olympia Regional Airport?
OLY offers a unique blend of convenience and affordability. Its smaller size translates to shorter security lines, less walking, and a generally less stressful travel experience. This is a significant advantage, especially during peak travel seasons when larger airports are notoriously crowded. The ease and speed of navigating OLY significantly reduce the time commitment associated with air travel.
How Much Can I Save?
The cost savings at OLY can be substantial, especially when considering parking and transportation. Parking fees at OLY are considerably lower than at SEA. Furthermore, the airport's proximity to Olympia and surrounding areas eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming taxi rides or ride-sharing services. Driving to and from OLY is significantly quicker and cheaper, directly impacting your overall travel budget.
What Airlines Fly into Olympia Regional Airport?
Currently, Alaska Airlines is the primary carrier serving Olympia Regional Airport, offering flights to several key destinations. While the flight options might be fewer compared to SEA, the availability of direct flights to many popular locations makes OLY a viable option for many travelers. Always check the latest flight schedules and availability on the airline's website or through a travel booking service.
What airlines fly into Olympia Regional Airport?
This question is answered above, highlighting Alaska Airlines as the primary carrier at OLY. The limited number of airlines serving OLY is a tradeoff, but the convenience and cost savings often outweigh this for many travelers.
Is Olympia Regional Airport Safe?
Yes, Olympia Regional Airport maintains high safety standards, similar to any other airport in the United States. The airport undergoes regular inspections and adheres to strict security protocols to ensure the safety and security of its passengers.
Is parking at Olympia Regional Airport expensive?
No, parking at Olympia Regional Airport is significantly less expensive compared to major international airports. This is a considerable cost saving for travelers, further enhancing the overall value proposition of choosing OLY.
How far is Olympia Regional Airport from Seattle?
Olympia Regional Airport is approximately 60 miles southwest of Seattle. While this distance might seem significant, the time saved navigating a smaller airport and the reduced travel costs often make the drive worthwhile, particularly for those living closer to Olympia.
What are the disadvantages of flying into Olympia Regional Airport?
The primary disadvantage of flying into Olympia Regional Airport is the limited number of flight options compared to larger airports like SEA. This means that you may have fewer destinations to choose from and may need to connect through another airport to reach your final destination.
Conclusion: Is OLY Right for You?
Ultimately, the best airport for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. If convenience, speed, and cost savings are paramount, and your destination is served by OLY, then it's definitely worth considering. Weigh the advantages of reduced stress, lower parking fees, and quicker travel times against the limited flight options. For many travelers in the Olympia area, and even those willing to make a slightly longer drive, Olympia Regional Airport represents a smart, efficient, and cost-effective choice.
