Amherst, Massachusetts, a vibrant college town nestled amidst the scenic Pioneer Valley, welcomes visitors from near and far. Whether you’re planning an academic pilgrimage, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural immersion, accessing Amherst via air is made convenient by several nearby airports. This comprehensive guide explores the nearest airport to Amherst, MA, providing travelers with essential information to plan their journey seamlessly.
Bradley International Airport (BDL)
Just a short 45-minute drive from Amherst, Bradley International Airport (BDL) emerges as the closest major airport. Located in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, it serves as the primary gateway to New England and beyond. With over 500 daily flights connecting to destinations across the US and internationally, BDL offers a wide range of options for travelers.
Facilities and Services
BDL boasts a state-of-the-art terminal with an array of amenities to enhance travelers’ experience, including:
- Vast retail options: Duty-free shops, local boutiques, and bookstores cater to every shopping need.
- Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and other dining options: Savor a quick bite or relax over a leisurely meal before or after your flight.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your airport stay.
- Charging stations: Power up your devices conveniently.
Ground Transportation Options
Once you land at BDL, several transportation options are available to reach Amherst:
- Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft offer convenient door-to-door service.
- Public transportation: The Valley Flyer Express Bus connects BDL to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, providing a budget-friendly option.
- Rental cars: Avis, Hertz, and other major rental companies offer vehicles for exploring the region at your own pace.
Considerations
- Limited non-stop destinations: While BDL offers numerous connections, direct flights to smaller cities may not be available.
- Distance from Amherst: The 45-minute drive can add to the overall travel time.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
About an hour and 20 minutes from Amherst, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) ranks as the second-closest major airport. As the largest airport in New England, it serves as a hub for domestic and international flights, providing travelers with a broad choice of destinations.
Facilities and Services
BOS offers an extensive range of amenities:
- Modern terminals: Enjoy sleek and spacious facilities with ample seating and natural light.
- Extensive dining options: From quick snacks to fine dining, there’s something for every palate.
- Shopping galore: Explore duty-free and high-end retail stores.
- Art and culture: Admire rotating art exhibitions and attend live music performances.
Ground Transportation Options
Reaching Amherst from BOS involves several transportation options:
- Amtrak: The Vermonter train line offers direct service between South Station in Boston and Amherst, providing a scenic and comfortable journey.
- Shuttle services: Private shuttle companies like Go Amherst offer convenient door-to-door transportation.
- Public transportation: Take the MBTA Commuter Rail to Worcester and transfer to the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) bus for the final leg to Amherst.
Considerations
- Distance from Amherst: The longer travel time (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes) compared to BDL.
- Potential flight delays: As a major hub, BOS is prone to flight delays, especially during peak season.
Worcester Regional Airport (ORH)
Worcester Regional Airport (ORH), located about 40 minutes east of Amherst, offers a regional alternative to the larger airports. While it has fewer flight options, it often provides more affordable fares.
Facilities and Services
ORH provides a comfortable and efficient travel experience:
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your stay.
- Local dining options: Enjoy a variety of dining choices, including coffee shops and restaurants.
- Convenient location: Short distance from major highways and downtown Worcester.
Ground Transportation Options
Reaching Amherst from ORH is straightforward:
- Uber and Lyft: Ride-sharing services provide door-to-door transportation.
- Rental cars: Avis, Hertz, and other rental companies offer vehicles for rent.
- PVTA bus: Take the PVTA bus from Union Station in Worcester to reach Amherst.
Considerations
- Limited flight options: ORH primarily offers flights to smaller cities.
- Fewer amenities: Compared to larger airports, ORH has a smaller selection of amenities.
Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport (EEN)
Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport (EEN), located in Keene, New Hampshire, is the most distant airport from Amherst, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away. However, it offers direct flights to certain destinations, making it a convenient choice for some travelers.
Facilities and Services
EEN provides essential amenities for a comfortable travel experience:
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your stay.
- Coffee shop: Grab a quick bite or sip on a beverage before your flight.
- Nearby dining options: Explore restaurants and cafes within a short distance from the airport.
Ground Transportation Options
Reaching Amherst from EEN involves a combination of transportation modes:
- Shuttle service: Private shuttle services like Fly Keene offer convenient door-to-door transportation.
- Rental cars: Avis, Hertz, and other rental companies offer vehicles for rent.
- Greyhound bus: Take the Greyhound bus from Keene to Northampton, Massachusetts, and then transfer to the PVTA bus for the final leg to Amherst.
Considerations
- Distance from Amherst: The longest travel time (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) compared to the other airports.
- Limited flight options: EEN has a limited number of flight destinations.
Table 1: Nearest Airports to Amherst, MA
| Airport | Distance from Amherst | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bradley International Airport (BDL) | 45 minutes | 45 minutes |
| Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) | 1 hour 20 minutes | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) | 40 minutes | 40 minutes |
| Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport (EEN) | 1 hour 15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Table 2: Airport Comparison
| Feature | Bradley International Airport (BDL) | Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) | Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) | Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport (EEN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight options | Extensive | Most extensive | Regional | Limited |
| Facilities and amenities | State-of-the-art terminal, vast retail options, dining choices, free Wi-Fi | Modern terminals, extensive dining options, shopping galore, art and culture | Comfortable and efficient, free Wi-Fi, local dining options | Essential amenities, free Wi-Fi, nearby dining options |
| Ground transportation options | Ride-sharing services, Valley Flyer Express Bus, rental cars | Amtrak, shuttle services, public transportation | Ride-sharing services, rental cars, PVTA bus | Shuttle service, rental cars, Greyhound bus, PVTA bus |
| Considerations | Limited non-stop destinations | Distance from Amherst, potential flight delays | Limited flight options, fewer amenities | Distance from Amherst, limited flight options |
Fly Smart: Strategies for Choosing the Best Airport
Choosing the right airport for your Amherst-bound journey depends on several factors:
- Flight availability: Consider your destination and the flight options available from each airport.
- Cost: Compare ticket prices and additional transportation costs to determine the most budget-friendly option.
- Convenience: Assess the airport’s distance from Amherst and the available ground transportation modes to ensure a seamless journey.
- Time: Factor in the travel time from the airport to Amherst, including potential delays.
Tips and Tricks for Enhancing Your Airport Experience
- Book early: Secure your flights and ground transportation in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best deals and availability.
- Arrive early: Allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and potential delays.
- Pack efficiently: Follow TSA guidelines and pack light to avoid checked baggage fees and potential delays.
- Utilize airport amenities: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and dining options to make your layover more comfortable and productive.
- Explore the area: If you have a longer layover, venture out and explore the city or nearby attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest airport to Amherst, MA?
Bradley International Airport (BDL) is the closest major airport to Amherst, MA, located just 45 minutes away.
Are there non-stop flights to Amherst, MA?
No, there are no direct flights to Amherst, MA. All flights require a connection at one or more airports.
What is the most convenient way to reach Amherst, MA from the airport?
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer the most convenient door-to-door transportation from the airport to Amherst, MA.
Can I rent a car at the airport?
Yes, all four airports mentioned in this guide offer car rental services from major providers such as Avis and Hertz.
Is there public transportation available from the airport to Amherst, MA?
The Valley Flyer Express Bus provides public transportation from Bradley International Airport (BDL) to the University of Massachusetts Amherst. From other airports, you may need to transfer between multiple bus routes or trains to reach Amherst.
