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Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport BFL Airport Traveler Guide

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BFL Airport Insights & Guide

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Getting to Know BFL Airport

Discover Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport (BFL), where the unique blend of sunny skies and a vintage aircraft display welcomes you. Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, BFL offers a seamless experience with its array of amenities.

Our concise guide covers everything from flight updates to parking and dining, ensuring a smooth transition from doorstep to departure. Dive deeper into airport insights with our Comprehensive Airport Guide.

iFly Tip: From check-in to departure, our airport guidance covers it all.

The airport has one main terminal building with two concourses: A and B. Concourse A has 5 gates and Concourse B has 3 gates. The airport is served by major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, which operate out of both concourses. Other airlines, such as Allegiant Air and Boutique Air, operate out of Concourse B.

Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim and ground transportation services on the lower level of the terminal building. The upper level houses ticket counters, security checkpoints, and access to the gates. There are also various food and beverage options, including a coffee shop and a restaurant, located throughout the terminal building.

Passengers with disabilities can take advantage of the airport's accessible features, such as wheelchair assistance and accessible parking spaces. Additionally, there are family restrooms and a nursing room available for parents traveling with young children.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

As a smaller airport, Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport only has one terminal, making it easy for travelers to navigate. Upon arrival, passengers can easily find baggage claim and ground transportation options within the same terminal. The airport also offers short-term and long-term parking options within walking distance of the terminal.

Tips from BFL Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BFL-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"The single terminal at BFL makes navigation a breeze. However, if you're flying with Allegiant or Boutique, remember they operate from Concourse B, which is smaller and less crowded." — Maria G., Shafter, CA, December 2023

"For those traveling with kids, the family restrooms and nursing room are conveniently located near the security checkpoint. It helps to plan a quick stop there before heading to your gate." — John K., Wasco, CA, March 2024

Getting to/from the City

"If you're looking to save on transportation, the GET Bus is a reliable and budget-friendly option. It stops right outside the terminal and costs only $1.75 to get to downtown Bakersfield." — Lisa T., Arvin, CA, January 2024

"For a quicker trip, I usually book a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft. The pickup area is well-marked and just outside the terminal." — Daniel P., Lamont, CA, April 2024

Parking

"The cell phone waiting area is a lifesaver for picking up passengers. It's free and located just a short drive from the terminal, so you can wait comfortably until your party is ready." — Emily R., Delano, CA, February 2024

"If you're parking long-term, consider the off-airport lots. They offer shuttle services and are often cheaper than the airport's own lots." — Carlos L., Taft, CA, May 2024

Inside the Airport

"The Landing Zone is my go-to for a hearty meal. Their burgers are fantastic and perfect if you have time before your flight." — Samantha J., Bakersfield, CA, June 2024

"Don't miss the California Welcome Center for unique local gifts. It's a great spot to pick up something special before you head out." — Ahmed S., Bakersfield, CA, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Checking the flight status on the airport's website or your airline's app can save you a lot of stress. I always do this before leaving for the airport." — Rebecca H., Tehachapi, CA, August 2024

"Allow extra time to go through security, especially during peak hours. Even though BFL is smaller, lines can still build up." — Michael N., Oildale, CA, October 2024

iFly Tip: Get a pilot's perspective on your flight journey with our detailed flight guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At BFL Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are strict restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting area, which is located near the terminal building, to wait for their arriving passengers.

The cell-phone waiting area is a free parking lot where drivers can wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and collected their luggage. Once the passengers are ready, the driver can proceed to the curbside to pick them up. This system helps to reduce traffic congestion and ensures that the curbside area is clear for arriving and departing passengers.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at the airport, travelers have a few options to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with both covered and uncovered parking garages available. Additionally, there are designated handicapped parking spots located in each lot.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, the airport also has a cell phone waiting area located just outside the terminal. This area allows you to wait in your car until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking lots are available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without having to worry about finding a parking spot.

Transportation Options

Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport offers various ground transportation options for travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available at the airport. The rental car facilities can be found in the baggage claim area. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with a drop-off area located outside of the terminal building. The fare for a taxi ride varies depending on the destination. It's recommended to check the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are permitted to pick up passengers at the airport. The pickup area for these services is located outside of the terminal building. Note that there are restrictions on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage that can be accommodated in a shared ride.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for travelers who want a more convenient and hassle-free way of getting to their destination. These shuttles can be reserved in advance and can be found at the ground transportation area outside of the terminal building. The fares for airport shuttles vary depending on the destination.
  • Public Transportation: GET Bus provides bus services to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of the terminal building. The fare for a one-way trip is $1.75. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to reach the city center or other destinations.

iFly Tip: Learn how airline hubs enhance connectivity across continents.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but finding the right accommodation near your airport can sometimes be a challenge. We've got you covered with a guide that introduces you to a variety of hotels located conveniently close to the airport, each offering a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and amenities designed to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Whether you're seeking a luxurious suite, a budget-friendly room, or a hotel with specific amenities like complimentary breakfast or an indoor swimming pool, you'll find options to suit your preferences and budget. Discover more about these hotels and their offerings, ensuring your next trip is as comfortable and convenient as possible. View all Meadows Field Airport Hotels now.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for dining and shopping options at Bakersfield Airport, you won't be disappointed. The airport has a variety of restaurants and stores to choose from, so you can grab a bite to eat or pick up some last-minute souvenirs before your flight.

One highly recommended restaurant is The Landing Zone, located in the main terminal. This restaurant offers a variety of American-style dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Another great option is Cafe Med, which serves up delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. If you're in the mood for something sweet, be sure to check out Cinnabon for their famous cinnamon rolls.

As for shopping, you can find a range of stores selling everything from books and magazines to clothing and gifts. One store worth checking out is InMotion Entertainment, which offers a variety of electronics and accessories, including headphones, chargers, and travel gadgets. If you're looking for a souvenir to take home, be sure to stop by the California Welcome Center, where you can find a variety of locally-made gifts and products.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at BFL can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Bakersfield Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is available to help you retrieve your belongings.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Bakersfield Airport features designated children's areas, offering a safe and fun space for kids to play while waiting for their flight.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available in both the arrivals and departures areas, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Help Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical help center is open 24/7 with trained medical professionals available to provide first aid and emergency medical care if needed.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at BFL.

One of the most common ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display to get the latest updates.

Another convenient way to stay informed about your flight is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that allow you to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes directly to your phone. You can also check your flight status and view your boarding pass through the app.

If you prefer to receive updates via text, email, or push notifications, many airlines also offer these options. Simply sign up for the service through your airline's website or app and you'll receive updates as soon as they become available.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at BFL 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

  • Location: Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport (BFL) is located in Kern County, California, United States.
  • Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving BFL include United Airlines and American Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the BFL Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport handles approximately 1,500 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport averages around 50 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from BFL are Phoenix, Las Vegas, Dallas, Denver, and San Francisco.
  • Hub Status: BFL serves as a hub for United Airlines and American Airlines, offering connecting flights to various destinations across the United States and beyond.

Airport History

BFL Airport, located in Kern County, California, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1927: The airport was established as Kern County Airport.
  • 1941: The airport was acquired by the U.S. Army Air Corps and renamed Meadows Field after a local World War I pilot, George Meadows.
  • 1946: The airport was returned to civilian control and resumed commercial flights.
  • 1950s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions to accommodate larger aircraft.
  • 1960s: The airport saw a surge in air traffic due to the oil industry boom in the area.
  • 1980s: The airport added a new terminal building and parking garage.
  • 1990s: The airport continued to grow, with new airlines and destinations added.
  • 2000s: The airport underwent further renovations and upgrades, including a new air traffic control tower.
  • 2010s: The airport celebrated its 85th anniversary and continued to serve the Bakersfield community with flights to major cities across the United States.

Today, the airport remains an important transportation hub for the Central Valley region of California, providing convenient access to both business and leisure travelers.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: BFL
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 661-391-1800
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Meadows Field Airport, 3701 Wings Way, Bakersfield, CA 93308, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport Q&A

There are two concourses, A and B. Major airlines like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines operate from both concourses, while Allegiant Air and Boutique Air operate from Concourse B.
Travelers can choose from car rentals, taxis, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and the GET Bus, which is a budget-friendly public transportation option.
The vintage aircraft display is located near the entrance of the airport, offering a unique attraction for visitors.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking with both covered and uncovered options. There is also a free cell phone waiting area for picking up passengers, and economical off-airport parking lots with shuttle services.
Yes, travelers can enjoy dining at The Landing Zone, which offers American-style dishes, or Cafe Med for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Cinnabon is also available for those craving something sweet.
Flight status can be checked through in-airport flight displays, your airline's mobile app, or the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time updates.
The airport provides wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It's recommended to notify your airline in advance for assistance.
Yes, the airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal for all travelers.
You can contact the lost and found office at the airport for assistance in retrieving lost belongings.
Yes, there are several hotels located conveniently close to the airport, offering a range of accommodations from luxurious suites to budget-friendly rooms.