The Group Travel Guide to Airports in & Around Bellingham, Washington

Planning group air travel into or out of Bellingham? Choosing the right airport—and the right ground transportation—can make all the difference. Whether your team is flying out for a corporate retreat, you’re coordinating a student trip to Seattle, or you’ve got family and friends coming in from Vancouver, Canada, Charter Bus Rental Bellingham can make sure your airport transfer is smooth, on time, and stress-free. We provide private charter buses and minibuses for airport pickups and drop-offs across Whatcom County and beyond. Our reservation team is available 24/7 at 564-565-4310 to help you find the perfect bus and get an instant quote!

Quick Answer:

Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is the main commercial airport serving Bellingham and much of Northwest Washington. It offers nonstop service to major hubs like Seattle, Las Vegas, and Phoenix, as well as seasonal flights to Hawaii and Alaska. For groups looking for more flight options or international connections, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and Paine Field (PAE) are within a two-hour drive. Each airport has designated areas for oversized vehicles like charter buses to load and unload passengers safely.

Bellingham International Airport (BLI)

Address: 4255 Mitchell Way, Bellingham, WA 98226

Bellingham International Airport is the go-to choice for most travelers in Bellingham and Whatcom County. Located just five miles northwest of downtown, it’s easy to reach by charter bus via I-5 and Bakerview Road. Airlines serving BLI include Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, and Southwest, with nonstop flights to destinations such as Seattle, Las Vegas, Oakland, Palm Springs, and more. The airport is known for its convenient size, affordable parking, and quick security lines—a big plus for large groups!

Charter buses and other oversized vehicles can load and unload passengers in the commercial ground transportation zone near baggage claim. Your group will have plenty of room to board with luggage, and you won’t need to worry about getting split up between multiple cars or rideshares. If you arrive early or have some time before your flight, nearby attractions like Bellis Fair Mall, the Bellingham Railway Museum, and Zuanich Point Park offer shopping, dining, and scenic waterfront views.

Inside BLI, you’ll find local dining options like Scotty Brown’s restaurant and bar, as well as the North Cascades Gateway Center gift shop for last-minute souvenirs. If your travelers need to unwind after a long flight, they can relax in comfortable reclining seats on your charter bus while streaming music or movies with onboard WiFi.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Distance from Bellingham: ~110 miles or 2 hours

Address: 17801 International Blvd, Seattle, WA 98158

If your group needs access to more airlines and direct international flights, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is worth the drive. SEA is the largest airport in the Pacific Northwest, offering nonstop flights to Europe, Asia, and cities across the U.S. It’s about a two-hour drive south of Bellingham via I-5, and a charter bus rental can make the journey easier by handling traffic and parking.

At Sea-Tac, charter buses can pick up and drop off passengers in the designated Ground Transportation Plaza located on the lower drive of the main terminal. This area is reserved for commercial vehicles and provides easy access to ticketing and baggage claim. Make sure to communicate with your group about where to meet, as Sea-Tac can be busy and confusing for first-time visitors.

While waiting for your flight, your group can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including local restaurants like Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Anthony’s Restaurant. There are also shops, art exhibits, and even a meditation room if anyone needs some quiet time before boarding. If you have extra time before or after your flight, consider stopping at nearby attractions like Angle Lake Park or Westfield Southcenter Mall for dining and shopping.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Distance from Bellingham: ~55 miles or 1 hour 15 minutes (plus border crossing time)

Address: 3211 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond, BC V7B 0A4, Canada

For groups heading to or from Canada, Vancouver International Airport is just over an hour north of Bellingham, depending on border traffic at the Peace Arch or Pacific Highway crossings. YVR is one of Canada’s busiest airports, with extensive domestic and international flight options—especially to Asia and Europe.

Charter buses traveling to YVR should ensure all passengers have valid passports or travel documents for crossing the U.S.-Canada border. Upon arrival, buses can use the designated commercial vehicle lanes at the departures and arrivals levels of the main terminal. YVR’s layout is straightforward, making it easy for groups to stay together during drop-off and pickup.

Inside the airport, your group can explore a variety of dining options, including Tim Hortons, Japadog, and White Spot. There are also numerous shops selling Canadian gifts and souvenirs. If you have a layover or extra time, nearby attractions like Richmond Olympic Oval and McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport offer recreational activities and shopping. A charter bus can keep your group’s luggage secure while you enjoy the sights around Vancouver.

Paine Field (PAE)

Distance from Bellingham: ~70 miles or 1 hour 20 minutes

Address: 3220 100th St SW, Everett, WA 98204

Paine Field, located in Everett, is a smaller airport that offers a limited number of commercial flights, primarily through Alaska Airlines and United Airlines. It’s a convenient alternative for groups who want to avoid the crowds at Sea-Tac and need flights to destinations like Denver, San Francisco, or Los Angeles.

Charter buses can access the passenger terminal via Airport Road and use the designated drop-off and pick-up zones right outside the entrance. The terminal at Paine Field is modern and comfortable, with a relaxed atmosphere compared to larger airports. Amenities include a cafe, lounge seating, and free WiFi. If your group arrives early, consider visiting the nearby Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour for an educational experience about aerospace technology.

Tips for Booking Airport Charter Buses in Bellingham

When arranging group transportation to or from any airport, timing and logistics are crucial. Consider booking your charter bus to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures, especially if your group needs extra time for check-in and security. For international trips to Vancouver, factor in potential delays at the border, which can vary depending on the day and season. Your charter bus will allow everyone to travel together, reducing the risk of anyone missing a flight due to separate car arrangements or public transit delays.

Choosing a charter bus also means your group can enjoy amenities like climate control, power outlets for charging devices, and ample storage space for luggage—making the ride to the airport comfortable and convenient. Plus, with a dedicated team handling the route, your travelers can relax, catch up on work, or simply enjoy the journey.

Book Your Bellingham Airport Shuttle Today!

Whether you’re flying out of Bellingham International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Vancouver International Airport, or Paine Field, Charter Bus Rental Bellingham has the right bus to fit your needs. Call our 24/7 team at 564-565-4310 to get an instant quote and start planning your next group trip. We’ll make sure your airport transfer is seamless, so you can focus on enjoying your flight!