what airlines fly to san bernardino ca

2 min read 25-12-2024

Finding flights to San Bernardino, California might seem tricky at first. There isn't a major commercial airport directly in San Bernardino. However, several airports nearby offer convenient options for reaching the city. This guide will clarify your choices and help you find the best flight to suit your needs.

Understanding San Bernardino's Airport Situation

San Bernardino doesn't have a large commercial airport with numerous flight options. Instead, travelers typically fly into one of the larger airports in the surrounding Inland Empire region and then proceed to San Bernardino via ground transportation. Let's explore those options:

1. Ontario International Airport (ONT)

Distance: ONT is the closest major airport to San Bernardino, approximately a 30-minute drive.
Airlines: ONT serves a wide range of airlines, including Southwest, American Airlines, United, Spirit, and others. The specific airlines and flight routes change seasonally, so always check directly with the airlines or on flight comparison websites.
Getting to San Bernardino: From ONT, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service (Uber or Lyft), or rent a car to reach San Bernardino. Public transportation options are also available, but may require more time.

2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Distance: LAX is significantly further away, around a 1-hour and 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. Consider traffic, especially during peak hours.
Airlines: LAX is a major international airport with flights from virtually every major airline worldwide. Your choice of airlines here is practically limitless.
Getting to San Bernardino: From LAX, you have various transportation choices, including taxis, ride-sharing services, rental cars, and buses. However, the travel time and cost are considerably higher than from ONT.

3. John Wayne Airport (SNA) – Orange County

Distance: SNA in Orange County is another option, approximately a 1-hour drive from San Bernardino. Like LAX, traffic conditions can significantly impact travel time.
Airlines: SNA offers a good selection of airlines, though generally fewer than LAX or ONT.
Getting to San Bernardino: Similar transportation options exist as with LAX, including taxis, ride-sharing services, rental cars, and buses.

Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip

The best airport for your trip to San Bernardino depends on several factors:

Budget: Flying into ONT generally offers the most cost-effective option due to its proximity and often lower transportation costs.
Time: ONT minimizes travel time from the airport to your final destination in San Bernardino.
Flight Options: LAX provides the broadest range of airlines and flight schedules, but at the cost of longer travel time and potentially higher expenses.
Transportation Preferences: Consider your comfort level with different transportation methods when choosing an airport.

Booking Your Flight

Once you've decided on the airport, booking your flight is straightforward. Use online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices and schedules across different airlines. Remember to check baggage fees and other potential charges before confirming your booking.

Beyond the Flight: Getting Around San Bernardino

Once you're in San Bernardino, consider your transportation needs within the city. Rental cars are convenient for exploring the area, but ride-sharing services and public transportation are also readily available, depending on your destination and budget.

This comprehensive guide should help you navigate your flight options to San Bernardino. Remember to plan your travel well in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always check the latest flight information from the airlines before your journey.