Bend, Oregon, a city nestled in the heart of stunning high desert landscapes, offers outdoor enthusiasts a paradise. But for those arriving by air, understanding the airport options is crucial. This comprehensive guide explores the airports near Bend, OR, detailing their accessibility, services, and the best choices depending on your needs.
What are the closest airports to Bend, Oregon?
Bend boasts its own airport, Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), which serves as the primary gateway for most travelers. However, depending on your flight options and budget, alternative airports further afield might be considered. These could include airports in Medford (MFR), Eugene (EUG), or even Boise (BOI) in Idaho, depending on your origin and flight availability. We'll explore each option in detail below.
What is the best airport to fly into near Bend?
The "best" airport truly depends on your priorities. For most, Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is the most convenient option due to its proximity to Bend (approximately 20 miles). It offers a range of car rental services and is generally less expensive and less time-consuming for travel than using alternative airports. However, if you find significantly cheaper flights into a more distant airport, the trade-off of additional travel time might be worthwhile.
How far is Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) from Bend?
Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is approximately 20 miles from downtown Bend, Oregon. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, making it a convenient option for reaching the city.
Are there any other airports near Bend, OR besides RDM?
Yes, while RDM is the closest and most convenient, other airports offer alternatives, especially if flight prices or routes to RDM are limited:
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Medford Airport (MFR): Situated further south, Medford Airport offers a larger selection of airlines and destinations, but it’s a considerably longer drive to Bend (approximately 3-4 hours). This is only recommended if flights to MFR are significantly cheaper or more convenient.
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Eugene Airport (EUG): Located to the west, Eugene Airport might present another option, though the driving time to Bend is still significant (around 2.5-3.5 hours)
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Boise Airport (BOI): Considerably further away in Idaho, Boise Airport provides another potential option, but this increases the drive time to Bend substantially (approximately 4-5 hours). This option should only be considered if there are significant savings on airfare.
What airlines fly into Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM)?
RDM primarily serves smaller airlines and offers a more limited selection of destinations compared to larger airports. The airlines servicing RDM can vary seasonally, so always check directly with airlines or flight comparison websites for the most up-to-date information.
What are the transportation options from the airports to Bend?
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Rental Cars: The most common and often most convenient method, especially if you plan to explore beyond Bend.
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Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in the Bend area and are readily available at RDM. They might be a more expensive option than renting a car, however.
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Taxis: Taxis are usually available at the airports but might be less cost-effective than ride-sharing services.
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Shuttle Services: Some shuttle services operate between the airports and Bend, but their availability and pricing vary.
Choosing the right transportation method depends on your budget, travel style, and the number of people in your group.
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Bend, Oregon requires considering the optimal airport for your needs. While Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is undoubtedly the most convenient, other airports like Medford (MFR), Eugene (EUG), and Boise (BOI) provide alternative options—often for price reasons—though these come with the caveat of increased travel time to reach Bend. Always compare flight prices and travel times to determine the most efficient and cost-effective option for your specific trip.
