The 3 Closest Airports to winston-salem

The 3 Closest Airports to Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is conveniently situated near several airports, offering travelers flexibility depending on their needs for proximity, flight options, and cost. Understanding the differences between these airports can help you plan your trip more effectively.

Here’s a look at the three primary airports serving the Winston-Salem area:

The closest airport overall is Piedmont Triad International (GSO), while the closest major international airport with the most extensive flight options is Charlotte Douglas International (CLT).

1. Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO)

Located just east of Winston-Salem, GSO is by far the most convenient airport in terms of driving distance. It’s a smaller, regional airport, making it easy to navigate.

  • Distance to Winston-Salem: Approximately 23 miles (about 30-35 minutes drive)
  • Address: 1000 Ted Johnson Pkwy, Greensboro, NC 27409
  • Pros & Cons: Pros: Extremely close, easy parking, quick security lines, less crowded. Cons: Fewer direct flight destinations, potentially fewer airline choices, sometimes higher fares than major hubs.
  • Airlines & Car Rental: Airlines: Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines. Car Rental: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National/Alamo.
  • Official Website: https://flyfrompti.com/
  • Phone: (336) 665-5600
  • Rating: Generally rated well for convenience (e.g., ~4.4/5 on Google)

2. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

CLT is a major American Airlines hub and one of the busiest airports in the US. While a significantly longer drive than GSO, it offers a vast number of domestic and international flights.

  • Distance to Winston-Salem: Approximately 85 miles (about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes drive, depending on traffic)
  • Address: 5501 Josh Birmingham Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28208
  • Pros & Cons: Pros: Extensive flight options (especially AA), numerous direct destinations, often competitive fares, large airport amenities. Cons: Much longer drive, can be very busy/crowded, parking can be complex/expensive, potential for delays common at large hubs.
  • Airlines & Car Rental: Airlines: American Airlines (hub), Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier, various international carriers (Lufthansa, Air Canada, Volaris etc.). Car Rental: All major agencies available (in a separate rental facility accessed by shuttle).
  • Official Website: https://www.cltairport.com/
  • Phone: (704) 359-4013
  • Rating: Often rated slightly lower due to crowds/delays, but high for flight options (e.g., ~4.1/5 on Google)

3. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

RDU is another large airport serving the Research Triangle region. It’s further than CLT but offers a strong selection of flights and is known for its modern facilities.

  • Distance to Winston-Salem: Approximately 105 miles (about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours drive)
  • Address: 2400 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560
  • Pros & Cons: Pros: Good selection of domestic and international flights, modern and relatively easy-to-navigate terminals, strong presence from carriers like Delta. Cons: Longest drive of the three primary options.
  • Airlines & Car Rental: Airlines: Delta, American, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, Frontier, Spirit, Air Canada, Icelandair, Bahamasair, etc. Car Rental: All major agencies available.
  • Official Website: https://www.rdu.com/
  • Phone: (919) 840-2123
  • Rating: Generally well-regarded for facilities and experience (e.g., ~4.5/5 on Google)

Conclusion

The closest airport to Winston-Salem is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO). However, the closest major airport with the most extensive flight network is Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). Your best choice depends on whether you prioritize proximity and ease (GSO) or flight options and potentially lower fares despite a longer drive (CLT or RDU).

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