Burlington, Vermont, a charming city nestled in the Green Mountains, offers breathtaking scenery and a vibrant cultural scene. However, its relatively small airport, Burlington International Airport (BTV), might not always offer the flight options or connections some travelers need. This comprehensive guide explores the top 5 airports nearest to Burlington, providing a travel checklist to help you choose the best option for your journey. We'll delve into factors beyond just distance, considering flight frequency, amenities, and transportation options to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.
1. Burlington International Airport (BTV) - Your Local Hub
While not always the most expansive, Burlington International Airport (BTV) serves as the primary airport for the region. Its convenience is undeniable, especially for those prioritizing a short drive to and from Burlington.
Pros:
- Proximity to Burlington: A short drive from the city center, reducing travel time and costs.
- Smaller and less crowded: Often a more relaxed and less stressful airport experience compared to larger hubs.
- Growing number of direct flights: BTV continues to expand its flight options, increasingly offering direct connections to various major cities.
Cons:
- Limited flight options: Compared to larger airports, BTV might have fewer destinations and less frequent flights.
- Higher prices: Due to less competition, airfare from BTV can sometimes be more expensive.
- Seasonal variations: Flight schedules and availability can fluctuate throughout the year.
2. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) - A Solid Alternative
Located approximately 100 miles south of Burlington, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) offers a significant increase in flight options and connections.
Pros:
- More flight choices: MHT provides a wider range of destinations and airlines compared to BTV.
- More competitive pricing: The increased competition often translates to more affordable airfare.
- Better amenities: MHT typically features more shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Cons:
- Increased travel time: The longer driving distance from Burlington adds to the overall travel time.
- Traffic congestion: Driving to and from MHT, especially during peak hours, might involve navigating traffic.
- Rental car costs: Rental car prices at MHT might be higher due to demand.
3. Albany International Airport (ALB) - A Northeastern Option
Approximately 150 miles southwest of Burlington, Albany International Airport (ALB) offers another viable option for travelers.
Pros:
- Good flight network: ALB serves as a hub for several airlines, offering connections to numerous destinations.
- Affordable fares: Similar to MHT, ALB often provides competitively priced airfare.
- Convenient for upstate New York travelers: Ideal for those needing to connect with other parts of upstate New York.
Cons:
- Significant driving distance: The drive from Burlington to ALB is substantially longer than to BTV or MHT.
- Potential for higher gas costs: Longer distances translate to increased fuel expenses for road travel.
- Limited ground transportation: Fewer direct transportation options might require a rental car.
4. Logan International Airport (BOS) - The Boston Hub
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is approximately 180 miles south of Burlington, offering a vast array of flight options but with an extended travel time.
Pros:
- Extensive flight network: BOS is a major international airport with flights to destinations worldwide.
- Numerous amenities: As a major hub, BOS provides a wide array of services and amenities.
- Multiple transportation options: Various transportation methods are available, including trains, buses, and taxis.
Cons:
- Considerable travel time: The drive to BOS is lengthy, significantly increasing travel duration.
- High traffic congestion: Navigating the Boston area's traffic can add considerable travel time.
- High costs: Parking and transportation costs in Boston tend to be higher than in smaller cities.
5. Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG) - A Closer, Smaller Option
Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG), roughly 70 miles southwest of Burlington, presents a smaller, closer alternative.
Pros:
- Shorter drive than major hubs: The travel time is shorter compared to Boston or Albany.
- Less crowded: Typically less busy than the larger airports on this list.
- Potential for lower fares on certain routes: This smaller airport can sometimes offer unexpected deals.
Cons:
- Limited flight options: The number of destinations and flight frequencies are considerably more limited than the larger airports.
- Fewer amenities: Expect a more basic range of services and amenities.
- Transportation might be limited: Ground transportation options might be less extensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best airport to fly into near Burlington, Vermont?
The best airport depends on your priorities. For proximity and ease, BTV is ideal. For more flight options and potentially lower fares, MHT or ALB are strong contenders. For extensive flight networks, despite longer travel times, BOS is a powerful option. PBG offers a balance between proximity and less congestion, though with fewer flights.
How far is Burlington International Airport from downtown Burlington?
Burlington International Airport (BTV) is approximately a 10-15 minute drive from downtown Burlington.
Are there shuttle services from other airports to Burlington?
While not always direct, shuttle services are available from most of the larger nearby airports, but it's essential to pre-arrange transportation and check availability and pricing. Ride-sharing services are also an option.
Which airport offers the cheapest flights?
The cheapest airport will vary depending on the time of year, destination, and airline. Comparing prices across all five airports, often through a flight aggregator, is highly recommended.
By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide and answering the questions that are relevant to your trip, you can select the airport that best suits your travel needs and enhances your overall experience visiting Burlington, Vermont. Remember to factor in all associated travel costs—including gas, tolls, parking, and transportation to and from the airport—when making your final decision.
