Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your travel experience, saving you both valuable time and hard-earned money. St. Louis offers two main options: Lambert International Airport (STL) and Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS). This guide will help you determine which airport best suits your needs, focusing on factors that affect time and cost.
Lambert International Airport (STL): The Big Player
Lambert International Airport is the larger of the two, serving as the primary airport for the St. Louis metropolitan area. Its size translates to several key advantages and disadvantages regarding time and money.
Advantages:
- More Flight Options: STL offers a far wider array of domestic and some international flight options, often with more competitive pricing due to higher demand and increased competition among airlines. This broader selection frequently means finding better connecting flights and potentially cheaper fares.
- More Amenities: Expect a more extensive range of amenities at STL, including more restaurants, shops, lounges, and other services. This is especially useful for longer layovers or delays.
- Easier Ground Transportation: STL has better public transportation options and more readily available taxi and ride-sharing services, making getting to and from the airport more convenient.
Disadvantages:
- Longer Travel Time (Potentially): Depending on your location within the St. Louis metropolitan area, reaching STL might take longer than getting to SUS. This added travel time should be factored into your overall travel plan.
- Higher Parking Costs: Parking fees at STL tend to be higher than at SUS due to its size and demand.
Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS): The Smaller, More Convenient Option
Spirit of St. Louis Airport caters to a smaller clientele, primarily focusing on general aviation and regional flights. While not as expansive as STL, it offers unique advantages for specific travelers.
Advantages:
- Shorter Travel Time (Potentially): For those residing in or near Chesterfield, SUS's proximity can significantly reduce travel time to the airport, saving precious minutes before a flight.
- Lower Parking Costs: Parking fees are generally lower at SUS compared to STL.
- Less Crowding: Expect a less congested and more relaxed atmosphere at SUS, which can be a significant benefit for those who prefer to avoid large crowds.
Disadvantages:
- Fewer Flight Options: SUS's flight options are significantly limited, often consisting of regional flights and charter services. This restricts your choices and may lead to higher prices due to reduced competition.
- Limited Amenities: The range of amenities at SUS is much smaller compared to STL. Expect fewer restaurants, shops, and services.
- Limited Ground Transportation Options: Ground transportation options are more limited at SUS. You might rely more heavily on personal vehicles or pre-booked transportation.
Which Airport Saves You Time and Money? It Depends!
The choice between STL and SUS depends heavily on your individual circumstances:
- Time: If you live near Chesterfield and don't mind limited flight options, SUS might save you significant travel time. However, for most St. Louisans, STL's extensive flight network might offer better options, even considering the longer commute.
- Money: SUS generally offers cheaper parking, but the limited flight options often result in higher airfares. Carefully compare flight and parking costs for your specific travel plan to determine the better value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Lambert International Airport and Spirit of St. Louis Airport?
The primary difference lies in size and the types of flights offered. Lambert is a major international airport with numerous airlines and flight options, while Spirit of St. Louis is smaller, focusing on general aviation and regional flights. This difference impacts the amenities, transportation options, and overall travel experience.
Which airport is closer to downtown St. Louis?
Lambert International Airport (STL) is closer to downtown St. Louis than Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS).
Which airport has cheaper parking?
Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS) generally has cheaper parking rates compared to Lambert International Airport (STL).
Which airport offers more flight options?
Lambert International Airport (STL) offers significantly more flight options, both domestic and international, compared to Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS).
Is Spirit of St. Louis Airport a good option for international flights?
No, Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS) does not offer international flights. Lambert International Airport (STL) is the only option for international travel from the St. Louis area.
By carefully considering your location, travel preferences, and budget, you can choose the St. Louis airport that best aligns with your needs and ultimately saves you both time and money.
