Bradford Airport

Bradford Regional Airport is not merely a transit hub, but your personal gateway to the picturesque Allegheny Mountains region in the USA. Situated amidst the dense forests of Pennsylvania, it serves as the ideal starting point for those seeking outdoor adventures and seclusion away from the noise of metropolises. This small and cosy airport offers a tranquil start to your journey, sparing passengers the stress and queues typical of major aviation hubs.

The main advantage of Bradford Airport is its compactness and efficiency. Check-in procedures and security screening here take significantly less time than at major airports, allowing travellers to arrive shortly before departure. Despite its modest size, the airport provides key services for a comfortable start to your trip, including car rental offices, which is particularly important for exploring locations such as the Allegheny National Forest and the impressive Kinzua Bridge.

The airport is primarily served by flights under the Essential Air Service programme, which ensures stable air connectivity between the region and major hub airports. This makes it an excellent choice for tourists who value their time and prefer a calm and carefree beginning to their adventure in the heart of the Pennsylvania wilderness.

For your convenience, we have compiled essential contact information for Bradford Airport (BFD). We recommend always verifying the latest details on official resources.

• Official Website: You can find detailed information about flight schedules, services, and airport regulations on the website www.bradfordairport.net.
• Help Desk Phone: For general enquiries and consultations, you may call: +1 (814) 368-5928.
• Airport Address: Bradford Regional Airport, 212 Airport Road, Lewis Run, PA 16738, USA.
• Email: You can contact airport representatives via the contact form available on their official website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains an official Facebook page where news and important updates are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you travelled with directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the airport's lost and found service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to questions related to your stay at the airport, please use the help desk phone number.

Reaching Bradford Regional Airport, located approximately 20 kilometres south of the city centre of Bradford, is possible via several methods. The optimal choice depends on your budget, time, and plans for further travel around the region.

Taxis and Transfers are the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from downtown Bradford will take approximately 20-30 minutes, and the cost will be around $40–50 depending on the taxi service and time of day. You can use local taxi services or book a car via ride-hailing apps if available in the region. Pre-booked shuttles or private transfers are also popular, which is particularly convenient for groups or travellers with a large amount of luggage. This guarantees a vehicle at the required time and a fixed trip cost.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to explore the scenic surroundings of the USA. Several rental companies operate at the airport and in the city itself. Rental costs can vary significantly depending on the season, car class, and booking timing, so it is recommended to compare prices and book a car online in advance. By renting a car, you can not only reach the terminal in comfort but also travel freely around the region. Bradford Airport provides both short-term and long-term parking for private vehicles, which is convenient if you are arriving in your own car.

Public Transport in this region is poorly developed. Direct bus or rail routes to the airport are absent. Local bus companies may offer routes passing in relative proximity, but this would require additional transfers and, most likely, ordering a taxi for the final leg of the journey. This option is the least convenient and is not recommended if you have a tight schedule.

If you require more flight options, it is worth considering airports located in neighbouring cities. Among them are Jamestown Airport (JHW), DuBois–Jefferson County (DUJ), and the larger Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), which offers a wide selection of domestic and international flights.

Bradford Airport (BFD) is a compact and convenient regional air hub characterised by a simple and clear structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, serving both departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to its small size, orienting yourself here is very easy, making the journey as comfortable as possible and eliminating the stress associated with navigation in large airports.

The terminal layout is extremely simple: all key zones are located in one building a short distance from each other. Immediately after entering, you find yourself in the general area where check-in counters are located. Departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated but are in close proximity. Since there is only one terminal, the need for transfers between buildings or the use of shuttles is completely absent, which significantly saves time and energy.

Check-in and security screening procedures at Bradford Airport generally proceed very quickly. Due to the low passenger traffic, long queues are rare here. The entire process from entering the terminal to reaching the gate usually takes significantly less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, adhering to the standard timeframes established by your airline.

Navigating the terminal requires no special effort — all signs are intuitive. The security screening area leads to a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The main recommendation for travellers is simply to follow the standard signs. Thanks to the airport's compactness, you are unlikely to get lost, and staff are always ready to help and answer any questions.

Bradford Airport (BFD), officially known as Bradford Regional Airport, holds a long and significant history for the local community. Its official opening took place on 8 October 1950. The initiative for construction belonged to the city of Bradford and McKean County, who sought to improve the transport accessibility of the region and support its economy, which largely depended on the oil and gas industry.

From its early years of operation, the airport became a key transport hub. Initially, regular passenger services were operated by All American Airways, which was later transformed into Allegheny Airlines, and subsequently became part of US Airways. For decades, the airport provided stable air connections with major cities. Following the departure of major carriers in the 2000s, the airport's operation was maintained thanks to the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) programme, which subsidises flights to small US cities.

The airport's infrastructure has been modernised repeatedly to meet modern standards. In the 1970s, a new terminal was built, replacing the original building. A more recent and large-scale reconstruction was completed in 2017–2018. As part of this project, passenger areas were completely renovated, design was improved, and the overall functionality of the terminal was enhanced, making it more convenient and modern for travellers.

One of the airport's main achievements is its ability to ensure continuous air service for over 70 years. It remains a vital facility for business and tourism in this scenic region located near the Allegheny National Forest. An interesting fact: locals sometimes affectionately and humorously refer to it as "Bradford International Airport", although it serves predominantly domestic flights. This name highlights the pride they feel for their airport and its important role in the life of the city.

Bradford Airport (BFD) is a compact and cosy regional air hub in the state of Pennsylvania. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, passengers can enjoy a calm atmosphere without the queues and bustle characteristic of large international hubs. Check-in and screening procedures here are quick and comfortable.

Unlike many small airports, Bradford offers excellent dining opportunities. The Runway Bar and Grill (also known as "The Runway Restaurant") operates within the terminal building. This is a full-service establishment with a diverse menu where you can not only have a snack but also a substantial meal before your flight. A feature of the restaurant is its large windows offering a panoramic view of the runway, allowing you to watch aircraft take-offs and landings right from your table.

To stay connected with the outside world, free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal. Travellers can comfortably work or entertain themselves while waiting for their flight. The waiting lounge is equipped with power outlets for charging mobile devices and laptops, which is particularly important for business people.

Business infrastructure includes a conference room, which may be available for meetings upon prior request. Specialised airline VIP lounges are not provided at the airport, however, the general waiting hall is quiet and comfortable enough for work or relaxation.

Financial services are represented by ATMs where cash can be withdrawn. Currency exchange points are absent, so international guests are recommended to carry US dollars or use bank cards, which are accepted in the restaurant and at car rental counters.

For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created: the terminal is equipped with ramps and special restrooms, and all main areas are on a single level. If assistance with boarding the aircraft is required, the airline should be notified in advance.

Amenities for passengers with children include basic services such as baby changing tables in the restrooms. There is no separate playroom, but the calm environment of the terminal and the view of the planes from the restaurant usually captivate young travellers.

There is no hotel on the airport grounds. The nearest hotels are located in the city of Bradford and its surroundings, which can be reached by taxi or rental car in approximately 20–30 minutes.

Unlike major international hubs with endless rows of fast food, Bradford Airport (BFD) offers a more intimate and cosy approach to dining. The choice of establishments here is limited due to the compact size of the terminal, yet the quality of food and the atmosphere often exceed travellers' expectations.

The central place for lunch or dinner is the Runway Bar and Grill (sometimes referred to as "The Runway Restaurant"). It is located in the public area (landside), before security control. This makes it popular not only among departing passengers but also among locals. The main highlight of the venue is the panoramic windows facing directly onto the airfield, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while watching the aircraft.

The restaurant's menu focuses on classic American cuisine. As a signature offering, it is worth trying local steaks, juicy burgers, or seafood dishes. Portions are usually generous, in the best traditions of Pennsylvania. For those wishing to have a full meal before a flight, this is the ideal option. The average bill here falls within the moderate price range ($$), which corresponds well with the quality of service and dishes.

Regarding dietary preferences, the selection may not be as wide as in metropolises. Vegetarians will be offered fresh salads, side dishes, or pasta without meat. Menus for vegans, as well as specialised halal or kosher dishes, are harder to find; in such cases, it is recommended to consult with the waiter regarding the ingredients of dishes. For guests with gluten intolerance, staff can usually offer adaptations of certain items (for example, a steak with vegetables without sauce or a burger without a bun).

The restaurant's opening hours are generally aligned with lunch and dinner times, as well as the schedule of main flights, but may change depending on the season. If you arrive at the airport late at night or very early in the morning when the kitchen is closed, the only option for a quick snack remains the vending machines with drinks and snacks located in the waiting lounge.

If you have little time before departure, please note that service in the restaurant implies a leisurely meal. For a quick snack, it is better to limit yourself to light appetisers or coffee, or use the vending machines. Since the restaurant is located in the pre-security zone, plan your time so that you can pass through security control after eating, although queues at Bradford are extremely rare.

Travelling through Bradford Airport can be easy and pleasant if you prepare in advance. Here are some useful tips that will help you orient yourself and make your trip more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is usually sufficient for calm check-in, baggage drop, and passing through security control. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Security Control. When passing through screening, be ready to present your ID and boarding pass. All electronics (laptops, tablets) must be removed from your bag into a separate tray. Remember the rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider what is more important to you: beautiful views from the window (window seat) or the ability to move freely into the aisle (aisle seat). Do not place sharp objects, weapons, or flammable substances in your hand luggage. Documents, money, gadgets, medication, and other valuables should always be kept with you.

Transfers and Customs. Bradford Airport is compact, which makes transfers quite fast. If you have a connecting flight, check the gate number for the next flight segment on the display board immediately after landing. As the airport serves domestic flights within the USA, passengers are not required to pass through customs control.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it with water at a drinking fountain after passing through screening. Light snacks from home will also help avoid extra expenses. If you are driving to the airport, study parking options and book a space online — this is often more cost-effective.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact an airline representative for information about the new departure time and possible options. Keep your hand luggage with you so you have access to necessary items: a portable charger, a book, or headphones, which will help pass the waiting time.