Bellingham International Airport

Bellingham International Airport is a cosy and quiet alternative to the busy aviation hubs of Seattle and Vancouver, often chosen by knowledgeable travellers. Located in a picturesque setting, this compact terminal offers passengers not only an absence of long queues but also magnificent views of the majestic Mount Baker right from the departure lounge. It is the ideal gateway to begin a journey through the Pacific Northwest or a convenient starting point for a trip to the San Juan Islands.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of this air harbour is considered to be the stress-free experience. Thanks to the terminal's compact size, all pre-flight procedures, including check-in and security screening, take mere minutes, making the journey maximally comfortable for families with children and the elderly. Parking here is located within walking distance of the entrance and costs significantly less than at major airports in neighbouring metropolises.

Additionally, the airport is strategically located just 30 kilometres from the Canadian border, making it hugely popular with residents of British Columbia looking for favourable fares on flights within the USA. Inside the building, there is free Wi-Fi, convenient stations for charging gadgets, and cafés where you can relax before your flight while enjoying the panorama of the runway.

If you need to contact representatives of Bellingham International Airport (BLI), please use the following contact information:

• Official Website: For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations, visit www.portofbellingham.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can call: +1 360-671-5674.
• Airport Address: 4255 Mitchell Way, Bellingham, WA 98226, USA.
• Email: For general inquiries not related to specific airlines, you can use the port administration email address: info@portofbellingham.com.
• Social Media: The airport is managed by the Port of Bellingham, whose official pages can be found on popular social networks for news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost within the terminal building, contact the airport's lost and found service. If luggage or personal items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Customer Support Contacts: For most questions related to airport services, it is recommended to use the main information desk phone: +1 360-671-5674.

Getting to Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is effortless thanks to its convenient location just a few kilometres from the city centre of Bellingham. This airport, located in the USA, is popular not only with local residents but also with Canadian travellers due to its proximity to the border. There are several convenient ways to reach the terminal, suitable for any budget and travel style.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) bus system serves the airport. You will need Route No. 3, which runs from the Downtown Station transit hub directly to the airport. The trip takes approximately 20-25 minutes, and the ticket cost is minimal. This is an excellent choice for travellers with light luggage who wish to save money.

Taxis and Ride-hailing (Uber, Lyft) offer the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. A trip from the city centre will take just 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will be higher than the bus, but the convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group, fully justifies the expense. Taxi stands are located at the exit of the arrivals area.

For those planning to travel around the scenic Pacific Northwest region, hiring a car is the ideal solution. Offices of all major rental companies (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and others) are located at Bellingham Airport. By booking a car in advance, you can pick it up immediately upon arrival and set off on your journey. If you arrived in your own vehicle, parking is at your service. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking zones located within walking distance of the terminal.

It is also worth considering shuttles and transfers, especially if you are heading to other cities. For example, the Airporter Shuttle service offers regular trips between Bellingham Airport, Seattle, and Sea-Tac Airport. This is a convenient way to reach a larger transport hub without the need to rent a car. Some companies also organise transfers to Canadian Vancouver, making BLI a convenient alternative to Vancouver International Airport.

International Airport Bellingham (BLI) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates one main terminal, which serves all flights — both domestic within the USA and international. Such compactness makes navigation intuitively clear and eliminates the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and simple. The check-in area, airline counters, and security checkpoint are located on the same level, immediately after the entrance. After passing control, passengers enter the secure area with boarding gates. The arrivals area with baggage reclaim belts and car rental counters is located on the lower level. Thanks to the terminal's small size, all key points are within walking distance of each other.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Bellingham Airport typically takes significantly less time than at major hubs. Flight check-in and security screening usually proceed quickly and without long queues. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2 hours before an international one to go through all procedures without rushing.

Overall, navigating BLI airport will not cause difficulties even for those here for the first time. Clear signs in English will help you orient yourself easily. The main advantage of the terminal is its compactness, making it an excellent choice for travellers who value time and comfort. Getting lost here is practically impossible, and the path from the building entrance to the boarding gate takes minimal time.

The history of Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is a fascinating journey from a small municipal airfield to an important regional transport hub in the northwest USA. The airport was founded in 1936, and the first full-fledged terminal opened in 1940, laying the foundation for the future development of air travel in the city of Bellingham and its surroundings.

The airport received a significant boost in development during World War II. It was transferred to the control of the US Army Air Corps and used as a military airbase. After the war, the facility returned to civilian use, and in the 1950s, regular commercial flights began here. However, real growth began in the 1980s when a new terminal building was constructed, which exists to this day, albeit in a significantly expanded form.

A key stage in the modern history of BLI was the beginning of the 2000s. The arrival of budget airlines, specifically Allegiant Air, turned the airport into a popular "air gateway" for residents of neighbouring Canada wishing to save on flights within the US. This phenomenon caused a boom in passenger traffic. To cope with the increased load, a large-scale reconstruction and expansion of the terminal was carried out in the 2010s, resulting in its area more than doubling.

Interesting fact: thanks to its strategic location and relatively low congestion compared to giants like Seattle/Tacoma Airport, BLI often serves as an alternate airfield for flights heading to Seattle or Vancouver in case of bad weather conditions. Today, Bellingham International Airport continues to play an important role in the region's transport system, offering a convenient and accessible alternative for travel along the US West Coast.

Bellingham International Airport (BLI) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is thought out to the smallest detail so that your journey begins and ends with positive impressions.

You can have a snack before departure at one of the airport's cafés or dining outlets. Here you will find both light snacks and fresh coffee, as well as full hot meals. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. Although there are no exclusive VIP lounges in the airport, comfortable waiting areas are equipped for all passengers.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. Numerous sockets and special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Financial services are represented by ATMs located in different parts of the building. Currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange money exchange in advance.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and special parking spaces. To obtain a wheelchair or assistance, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance. Families with small children can use baby care rooms to care for infants in a quiet environment. In case first aid is needed, please approach any airport staff member.

Although there are no hotels directly in the airport building, many hotels are located a few minutes' drive away, most of which offer free transfers for their guests. For business travellers, the airport offers convenient work zones with access to power outlets and Wi-Fi, although specialised conference halls are absent.

Planning to grab a bite at Bellingham International Airport (BLI)? Despite its compact size, the airport offers several convenient dining options both before and after passing security control. Here you can find places for a quick snack as well as a restaurant for a full lunch or dinner while waiting for your flight from Bellingham.

In the public area of the airport (landside), located before the security checkpoint, a café usually operates, oriented towards quick and filling meals. This is a wonderful option if you are seeing off loved ones or have just arrived. Often you can try dishes with local flair here, such as fish and chips, which is a hallmark of the Pacific Northwest cuisine of the USA. This place is ideal for those who do not have a boarding pass.

After passing security control (airside), in the secure departure zone, passengers are welcomed by the airport's main restaurant — Scotty Browns. This is a full-service establishment offering a diverse menu of American cuisine: from hearty burgers and sandwiches to fresh salads and hot dishes. There is also a full bar with a good selection of drinks, including local craft beer. It is the ideal place for those who want to have a leisurely lunch or relax with their favourite beverage before the flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Vegetarian dishes, such as salads or vegetable sandwiches, are generally available in both establishments. However, finding specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options might be difficult. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients of dishes with the staff in advance to find a suitable option for you.

Overall, for a quick snack, the café in the pre-security zone is best suited, and for a full lunch or dinner — the Scotty Browns restaurant in the departure zone. Prices in the establishments correspond to the average level for airports. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so most cafés and restaurants are open from early morning until the departure of the last plane, providing passengers with food throughout the day.

To ensure your journey through Bellingham International Airport (BLI) goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, we have prepared several useful tips. This airport, located in the city of Bellingham, although not as large as global hubs, requires the same attentiveness and preparation from passengers.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 3 hours in advance. This will give you enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security: To save time, check in for your flight online via your airline's website or mobile app. Upon arrival at the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at the dedicated counter. Security control (TSA) here is standard. Be prepared to remove electronics (laptops, tablets) and liquids from your hand luggage into a separate bin.

Seat Selection: Want to enjoy views of the Cascade Mountains or the San Juan Islands? Choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Seats in the front part of the cabin will allow you to exit the plane faster upon arrival.

Hand Luggage Rules: Remember the "3-1-1" rule for liquids: containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) must be packed in one transparent resealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons in hand luggage. Electronic cigarettes and power banks should be carried only in hand luggage.

Passengers with Connections: Although Bellingham is not a major transfer hub, transit here is organised simply. Ensure your luggage is checked through to your final destination. After arrival, check the information screens to find the gate number for your next flight. Thanks to the airport's compact size, moving between gates will not take much time.

Customs Control: When arriving from abroad, you will have to pass US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Keep your passport, visa (if required), and completed customs declaration ready. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your visit and the items you are bringing in.

Saving Time and Money: Booking parking online in advance often costs less. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — it can be filled after passing security control. To avoid spending on expensive food at the airport, bring light snacks with you.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for current information and possible options (for example, rebooking on another flight). Bellingham Airport offers free Wi-Fi, cafés, and rest areas where you can wait for your departure in comfort. Find out about your airline's policy regarding compensation for long delays.