List of airports in Washington
Introduction
Washington state boasts a diverse array of airports that serve its growing population, bustling tourism industry, and thriving business community. From world‑class hubs in Seattle to regional relays on the coast and the Inland Empire, there’s an airport to meet virtually every need—whether you’re flying a corporate jet, heading for a weekend getaway, or planning a scenic flight over the Cascades. In this guide, we’ll walk through the main categories of airports in Washington, highlight the most popular airports, and provide practical information so you can choose the right destination for your trip or travel needs.
Types of Airports in Washington
Washington’s aviation network falls into several buckets:
| Category | Characteristics | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| International & Major Domestic | IATA‑code airports with TSA pre‑check, multiple carriers, long‑haul cargo | Travelers and freight airlines |
| Regional & Commercial | Medium‑size airports with a mix of airlines and cargo, often served by jet or turboprop | Weekend travelers, business trips |
| General Aviation | Private, small charter, and flight‑training facilities | Pilots, flight schools, recreational aviation |
| Military | Bases and training airfields | U.S. Armed Forces, NATO operations |
| Heliports & Specialized | Fixed‑wing or rotor‑wing only, often in urban centers | Emergency services, cargo, corporate transport |
Major International & Domestic Airports
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SNA) remains Washington’s transportation nucleus, handling over 60 million passengers in 2022 and providing nonstop flights to every major world market. Other key nodes include:
- Boeing Field – King County International Airport (BFI) – a vital reliever airport for SNA, with significant commercial, cargo, and general aviation operations.
- Portland International Airport (PDX) – located just across the state line, it often serves Washington residents looking for convenient west‑coast travel.
Regional & Commercial Airports
These airports act as gateways to scenic regions, major urban centers, and the state’s many corporate hubs.
| Airport | IATA | City | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boeing Field (BFI) | BFI | Seattle | Major reliever, domestic services |
| Tri‑Cities Regional Airport (PSC) | PSC | Pasco | Gateway to Eastern Washington |
| Mount Vernon–St. Helens Airport (MVT) | MVT | Mount Vernon | Northern hub for the Olympic Peninsula |
| Olympic Airpark (ONY) | ONY | Port Angeles | Scenic flights, local traffic |
| Bellingham International Airport (BLI) | BLI | Bellingham | Cross‑border traffic to Canada |
General Aviation Airports
Washington hosts over 500 general aviation (GA) airports, offering essential support to flight training, aerial work, and recreational flying.
| Airport | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lakeview Airport (LVT) | Spokane | Popular for skydiving and scenic tours |
| Tacoma Air Show Airport (TAC) | Tacoma | Home of the annual air show |
| Skagit Valley Airport (WGS) | Mount Vernon | State‑of‑the‑art runway for GA |
| Auburn Municipal Airport (ABE) | Auburn | Proximity to the Boeing manufacturing complex |
| Snohomish County Airport (SNO) | Everett | Modern terminal and flight‑training schools |
Airport Facilities & Services
Choosing the right airport involves more than just flight availability. Consider these essential services:
| Service | What to Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| TSA Pre‑Check & Global Entry | Availability at the airport | Reduces security wait times |
| Ground Transportation | Airport shuttles, car‑rentals | Convenient route to city or remote |
| Business & VIP Lounges | Availability of corporate lounges | Comfort for high‑net‑worth travelers |
| Cargo & Freight Services | Dedicated freight terminals | Critical for supply chain logistics |
| Flight School & Maintenance | Presence of flight schools and MRO facilities | Good for pilots seeking training or maintenance |
How to Choose the Right Airport for You
- Purpose of Trip – Business trips usually want major hubs for connectivity; leisure travelers may prefer regional airports close to attractions.
- Flight Availability – Some routes only fly into certain airports. Use airline partners’ route maps to confirm.
- Airport Fees – For general aviation, landing fees vary widely. Contact airport authorities for current rates.
- Proximity – Consider distance from your final destination; a direct but longer route might still save time overall.
- Facilities – If you have special needs (e.g., medical facilities, wheelchair accessibility), confirm each airport’s capabilities.
FAQ
Q1: Which airport is the best for international flights out of Washington?
A1: Seattle‑Tacoma International Airport (SNA) offers the widest selection of international carriers and destinations.
Q2: Can I fly a private plane into most of Washington’s airports?
A2: Yes—over 500 airports accept general aviation aircraft, but verify each airport’s FAA ID, runway length, and instrument rating requirements.
Q3: Are there airports near the Olympic Peninsula?
A3: Mount Vernon–St. Helens Airport (MVT) and Olympic Airpark (ONY) serve the peninsula and offer scenic flights.
Q4: Does Washington have any free or low‑cost parking at airports?
A4: Many regional airports provide free or discounted parking for up to 24 hours; however, SNA charges by the day.
Q5: Are there any military-only airports accessible to the public?
A5: No, military airfields are secured and only used by authorized personnel. General aviation pilots should operate at designated civilian airports.
Resources
- Washington State Department of Transportation – Aviation Division
- Federal Aviation Administration – Airport Data & Information Portal
- AirNav – Comprehensive Airport and Airport Information
- SkyVector – Flight Planning & Airport Charts
- Seattle‑Tacoma International Airport Official Website
Conclusion
From the global reach of Seattle‑Tacoma International to the charming strips of regional hubs, Washington’s airports accommodate a wide spectrum of travel needs. Understanding the airport categories, facilities, and logistical details will help you navigate the state’s aviation network with confidence, ensuring a smooth journey whether you’re heading for business, leisure, or a routine flight. Happy travels!
