Bellingham Airport (BLI) Guide
Welcome to Bellingham Airport, your gateway to the beautiful Pacific Northwest. With its convenient location just 3 miles from the Canadian border, BLI offers a unique travel experience for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you're flying in for a weekend getaway or heading out on a business trip, our comprehensive guide has everything you need to know to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Looking for flight status updates, airline departure terminals, or gate locations? Need to find the best parking options or grab a quick bite before your flight? Our extensive guide has got you covered. From terminal maps to food and shopping directories, we provide all the helpful information and tips you need to get from your door to your gate with ease. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through your BLI Airport travel experience.
For more detailed information about airports around the world, check out iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide. This resource is packed with useful information about major commercial airports, helping to make your travel experience even smoother.
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. The busiest times at the airport are during the early morning and late afternoon, so it is best to avoid those times if possible.
Getting to the Airport
The best way to get to Bellingham Airport is by car or taxi. The airport is located just off of Interstate 5, and there are several parking options available including short-term, long-term, and economy parking. If you prefer public transportation, there are several bus routes that serve the airport.
Getting Oriented
If you need help getting oriented at Bellingham Airport, be sure to check out iFly.com's interactive airport map. The map allows you to easily navigate the airport and find your gate, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. You can also download the map to your phone for easy access while you're at the airport.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at BLI, be sure to check the status of your flight before you leave for the airport. You can do this on the airport's website or through your airline's website or app. It's also a good idea to pack light and avoid bringing prohibited items in your carry-on or checked luggage. Finally, be sure to follow all TSA guidelines and arrive at the security checkpoint with plenty of time to spare.
Security Wait Times
At BLI Airport, TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the season. During peak travel times, such as holidays and summer months, wait times can be longer. However, the airport has taken measures to ensure that security lines move quickly and efficiently. Passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for enough time to check in and go through security. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Bellingham Airport (BLI) Terminals
Navigating BLI's Terminals
The airport has a single terminal building with two levels. The upper level is for departures and the lower level is for arrivals. The terminal has a total of six gates, with Gate 1 being the closest to the security checkpoint and Gate 6 being the farthest.
Alaska Airlines and Allegiant Air are the major airlines operating at BLI. Alaska Airlines uses Gates 1 and 2 for their flights, while Allegiant Air uses Gates 3, 4, 5, and 6.
Passengers can find various services and amenities at the airport, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. There is also a duty-free store available for international travelers.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Bellingham Airport only has one terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. The terminal is small and easy to navigate, with all facilities located within close proximity to each other. If you have any questions or concerns, the airport staff are friendly and happy to assist you.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at Bellingham Airport, you're in luck. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit every taste and need.
For a quick coffee and breakfast, head to Woods Coffee, located in the main terminal. If you're in the mood for something heartier, try the burgers at 5th Street Market, also located in the main terminal. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, check out the restaurant at the Chrysalis Inn & Spa, located just a short walk from the airport.
When it comes to shopping, BLI has you covered. Browse the selection of books and magazines at Hudson News, or pick up some souvenirs at the Made in Washington store. And if you need any last-minute travel essentials, head to the Travelmart convenience store.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at BLI Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, explore the facilities at this link.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. Our comprehensive guide lists a variety of hotels that cater to different needs and preferences. From luxurious estates to cozy motels, we have something for everyone. All these accommodations are conveniently located, ensuring a short commute to the airport. They also offer a range of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and hot tubs to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. Some of these hotels are also situated near local attractions, making them a great choice for those interested in exploring the area. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you can find the right accommodation that suits your needs. Check out our the airport Hotels page to discover the best hotel options near the airport.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Bellingham Airport, there are designated areas for picking up and dropping off passengers. The curbside area in front of the terminal is reserved for active loading and unloading only. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicles unattended in this area. Violators may be ticketed or towed at their own expense.
If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, there is a cell-phone waiting area available. This area is located near the airport's entrance and is free to use. Drivers can wait in their vehicles until their passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready, you can proceed to the curbside area for pick up.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at Bellingham Airport, passengers have several options to choose from. There are both short-term and long-term parking options available, with parking lots and garages located close to the terminal building.
For those who need to wait for an arriving passenger, there is a cell phone waiting area located just outside the terminal building. This area is free to use and provides a convenient place to wait until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages at BLI. These spaces are located close to the terminal building and are clearly marked for easy identification.
For those looking for more economical parking options, off-airport parking is available near BLI Airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy and convenient to park your car and catch your flight.
Get details about BLI parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
If you're flying into the airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to your final destination.
For those looking to rent a car, there are a variety of car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. You can find their rental counters in the baggage claim area of the terminal.
If you prefer to take a taxi, there are designated drop-off areas located outside of the baggage claim area. Fares vary depending on your destination, so be sure to check with your driver before departing.
Shared ride services, such as Lyft and Uber, are also available at Bellingham Airport. Pickup areas can be found outside of the baggage claim area, and there may be restrictions on where these services can drop you off.
Airport shuttles are another option for transportation, with several companies offering service to nearby hotels and other destinations. Pickup areas can be found outside of the baggage claim area, and fares vary depending on your destination.
Finally, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, public transportation is available via the Whatcom Transportation Authority. The airport is served by several bus routes, with stops located outside of the terminal. Fares start at $1.50 for a one-way trip.
Passenger Services
Bellingham Airport offers a variety of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.
For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
If you happen to lose an item during your travels, the lost and found is located in the baggage claim area.
Traveling with children? There are designated play areas to keep them entertained while waiting for your flight.
Special-needs services are also available, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.
If you need to do some banking, there are ATMs located in the terminal.
For any medical emergencies, there is a first aid station located near the baggage claim area.
Flight Status Info
When traveling by air, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At BLI, there are several ways to check your flight status and stay informed about any changes or delays.
One way to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight on the display and check the status.
Another way to stay informed is by using airline mobile phone apps. Many airlines have their own apps that allow you to check your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can download these apps for free from the App Store or Google Play.
In addition, passengers can sign up for text, email, or push notifications from their airline to receive updates about their flight status. This is a convenient way to stay informed, especially if you are on the go and don't have access to a computer or airport display.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at BLI Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
The airport, located in the United States, is a small airport with one terminal. Despite its size, it serves as a popular alternative for travelers to the nearby Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
The airport is served by several airlines, with Allegiant Air being the top carrier with the most daily flights. Other airlines that operate at the airport include Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Frontier Airlines.
On average, Bellingham Airport handles around 2,500 passengers daily, with an average of 30 daily flights. The airport serves a total of 12 destinations, with the top 5 destinations being Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver, Honolulu, and Oakland.
Allegiant Air uses Bellingham Airport as a hub for its operations, offering nonstop flights to several destinations across the United States.
Airport History
BLI, located in the city of Bellingham, Washington, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1912: The first airplane lands in Bellingham, marking the beginning of aviation in the city.
- 1929: The Bellingham Airport is officially established as a municipal airport.
- 1940s: During World War II, the airport is used as a training base for the United States Army Air Corps.
- 1960s: The airport undergoes major renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building.
- 1980s: The airport sees a significant increase in passenger traffic, leading to further expansions and upgrades.
- 2000s: The airport becomes a popular hub for low-cost carriers, such as Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines.
- 2010s: The airport continues to grow and attract more airlines, including Alaska Airlines and Sun Country Airlines.
Today, BLI Airport serves as an important transportation hub for the Pacific Northwest, connecting travelers to destinations across the United States and Canada.
Airport Contact Info
For more information about the airport, please use the following contact information:
- Website: https://www.portofbellingham.com/airport
- Phone Number: 360-671-5674
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: 1801 Roeder Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225, United States