Bradley International Airport

Bradley International Airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the state of Connecticut and stands as an excellent alternative to the congested transport hubs of neighbouring metropolises. Located in the cozy town of Windsor Locks, it serves not only the state capital, Hartford, but also neighbouring Springfield, offering travellers a tranquil atmosphere and intuitive navigation. The airport is renowned for its convenience and is frequently chosen by those who value time and wish to avoid the bustle characteristic of the large hubs in Boston or New York.

Travellers value Bradley for its well-thought-out infrastructure and high level of service, which makes the beginning or end of a trip as comfortable as possible.

• Easy Accessibility: You can reach the centre of Hartford in approximately 30 minutes by taxi or by using the convenient "Bradley Flyer" express bus (Route #30), which runs to the city's transport hubs.
• Waiting Comfort: The terminal is equipped with free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, and relaxation zones. For those with an early departure or late arrival, the Sheraton Hotel adjoins directly to the terminal, accessible without stepping outside.
• Speed of Service: Thanks to its compact size and effective organisation, passing through security and baggage claim here usually takes significantly less time than in the region's larger airports.
• Nearby Attractions: If you have free time before your flight, the New England Air Museum is just a few minutes' drive away, housing an impressive collection of historical aircraft.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Bradley International Airport (BDL).

• Official Website: www.bradleyairport.com
• Help Desk Phone: +1 (860) 292-2000
• Address: Schoephoester Road, Windsor Locks, CT 06096, USA
• Email: The airport suggests using the dedicated contact form on the website for all inquiries and feedback.
• Social Media: Follow airport news on the official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: For items left on the plane or checked baggage, please contact your airline directly. If you have lost something within the terminal building, contact the Lost and Found service, maintained by the Connecticut State Police, at +1 (860) 292-7400.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or consultation, please use the help desk phone or the feedback form on the official website.

Bradley International Airport (BDL) is conveniently located approximately 24 kilometres north of the city centre of Hartford, making it a key transport hub for travellers in the state of Connecticut, USA. There are several convenient ways to get from the airport to the city and back, suitable for various plans and budgets.

Public Transport. The most affordable option is the Bradley Flyer express bus (Route 30-BDL), operated by CTtransit. It provides a direct connection between the airport and downtown Hartford, including a stop at Union Station, where you can transfer to Amtrak trains and other bus routes. The trip usually takes about 30-40 minutes, making this method not only budget-friendly but also quite fast.

Taxis and Transfers. For those who value comfort and speed, taxis and ride-sharing vehicles (Uber, Lyft) are always available at the terminal exits. A trip to downtown Hartford will take approximately 20-25 minutes, though the cost will be significantly higher compared to the bus. You can also pre-book a private or group transfer, which is particularly convenient if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage.

Car Rental and Parking. If your plans include exploring the picturesque surroundings of New England, renting a car is an ideal choice. Counters of all leading rental companies are located at Bradley Airport. For travellers with their own cars, a developed parking system is provided: from short-term spots in a multi-level garage directly connected to the terminal, to more economical long-term lots, from which free shuttles run regularly to the terminals.

When planning your route, it is also useful to check flight options to neighbouring airports. Sometimes this helps find more convenient or better-value flights. Among the nearest alternatives, you can consider the airport in New Haven or the larger Theodore Francis Green Memorial State Airport in Providence.

Bradley International Airport (BDL) is designed with a focus on convenience and simplicity for passengers. All activity is concentrated in one main building — Terminal A. This solution makes the airport intuitive and easy to navigate, which is especially convenient for travellers with children, large luggage, or those visiting for the first time.

The terminal structure is logical and divided into two main levels, helping to efficiently distribute passenger flows:

• Upper Level (Departures): Here you will find airline check-in counters and the main security checkpoint. After passing through, passengers enter the general departure area.
• Lower Level (Arrivals): This level is designed for arriving passengers and those meeting them. Baggage claim belts, customs control, and exits to various types of ground transport, including taxis, shuttles, and buses, are located here.

Once past security, you will find yourself in the central hall, from which two corridors (concourses) with boarding gates branch off. All gates are located in a single "secure" zone. This means that for transfers between flights, there is no need to pass through security again or use internal transport. Moving between any gates is done on foot and takes minimal time.

Generally, completing formalities at Bradley Airport takes less time compared to larger airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport no less than 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5–3 hours before an international one. During peak periods, such as early morning or evening, it is better to allow a little extra time.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear signs. Thanks to the compact and logical layout of the single terminal, orienting yourself at Bradley Airport is very easy, making the start and end of your journey as comfortable as possible.

The history of Bradley International Airport begins in 1940, when it was founded as a military airfield for the USA Army. Originally, it was called "Hartford Army Airfield" and was intended for pilot training and servicing military aviation leading up to and during World War II.

The airport received its current name on August 21, 1941, in memory of 24-year-old Lieutenant Eugene M. Bradley. He tragically died when his P-40 fighter crashed during a training flight over the airfield. This event forever inscribed the young pilot's name in the history of the airport and the city of Hartford.

After the war, in 1947, the airfield was transferred to civil administration and opened for commercial flights. This moment became a turning point in its history, marking the beginning of its transformation from a military base into a bustling passenger and cargo hub. The first airline to begin scheduled flights was Eastern Air Lines.

A significant event that influenced the airport's development was the destructive tornado on October 3, 1979. The storm caused serious damage to the old terminal (Terminal B) and the New England Air Museum. This incident accelerated plans for the construction of a new, more modern terminal. As a result, in 1986, Terminal A, also known as the Murphy Terminal, was opened and serves as the airport's main passenger terminal today.

Since then, Bradley Airport has gone through several stages of modernisation and expansion, including runway reconstruction and infrastructure improvements to service international flights. Today, it is the second busiest airport in New England and continues to play a key role in the region's transport system, while preserving the memory of its military roots and the people in whose honour it was named.

Bradley International Airport (BDL) offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip — be it a business meeting or a long-awaited holiday — here you will find everything necessary for a pleasant start or end to your journey.

The airport terminal houses numerous cafés and restaurants to suit any taste. You can quickly grab a sandwich and coffee or enjoy a full meal in one of the establishments with a la carte service. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops where you can purchase souvenirs, press, books, and travel goods. There is also a Duty-Free shop offering a classic assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, and beverages.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can use the services of a premium lounge, such as the Escape Lounge. Access may be granted depending on ticket class, participation in airline loyalty programmes, or for a separate fee. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous gadget charging stations will allow you to stay connected at all times.

Bradley Airport also provides other important services. ATMs and currency exchange points are at your disposal. Special nursing rooms are equipped for passengers with small children. The airport is fully adapted for travellers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, specially equipped restrooms, and escort services can be booked in advance. Medical assistance is available if needed.

If you have an early departure or late arrival, you can stay at the Sheraton Hartford Hotel, which is connected to the terminal by a covered walkway, which is very convenient. Additionally, several other hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms are available, typically based in hotels, allowing meetings and negotiations to be held without travelling far from the airport.

At Bradley International Airport (BDL), travellers will find numerous options for a snack or a full meal, designed for every taste and budget. Dining establishments are conveniently located both in the public area and after passing through security control.

In the pre-security zone (landside), accessible to all visitors, the choice is usually focused on cafés where you can quickly drink coffee and eat a sandwich or pastry. This is an excellent option if you are seeing someone off or have arrived at the airport very early. The main part of the restaurants and cafés is located in the secure zone (airside), after passing security control. Here the choice is significantly wider: from popular fast-food chains to restaurants with menu service.

For those who want to try something with local flair, it is worth paying attention to establishments offering local specialities from New England or classic American dishes, such as burgers or sandwiches. If you are short on time, numerous coffee shops will offer you a quick and high-quality snack. For a leisurely lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the full-service restaurants where you can comfortably spend time waiting for your flight.

Most establishments offer options for passengers with special dietary needs. In the menus of many restaurants, you can find vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. It may be more difficult to find vegan and Halal options, so it is recommended to check their availability directly with the café staff. Prices vary from budget-friendly in fast-food outlets to moderately high in restaurants. The operating hours of most establishments are tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until late in the evening.

To ensure your journey through Bradley International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of a few useful tips. Planning is the key to a calm start or end to a trip, especially if you are flying from Hartford for the first time.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you a sufficient margin of time for parking, checking luggage, and passing through security control. To save time, check in for your flight online and download the boarding pass to your smartphone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: Strict screening rules apply at airports in the USA. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects are prohibited in the cabin. Portable batteries (power banks) are permitted only in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities: a window seat is ideal for those who love admiring views, while an aisle seat is for those who want to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. If you have a transfer planned at Bradley, check information about your next flight on the departure monitors immediately upon arrival. Confirm the new boarding gate number and estimate the time required to walk to it within the single terminal.

Customs Control: Passengers arriving from abroad must pass through border and customs control. Have your passport, visa, and customs declaration (if required) ready. Be prepared to answer the officer's questions about the purpose and duration of your visit.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled at drinking fountains after the security zone. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher. In case of a flight delay, follow information from your airline via the mobile app or on the departure boards. Contact a carrier representative to learn about your rights to compensation, such as meal vouchers, if the wait becomes prolonged.