Bakersfield, a vibrant city nestled in California’s Central Valley, is served by several airports that cater to various aviation needs. These airports play a crucial role in connecting the region to destinations across the United States and beyond, supporting both commercial and general aviation activities.
Ever dreamed of escaping the Central Valley heat for a quick getaway? Bakersfield’s nearby airports hold the key to your next adventure. Whether you’re craving the buzz of Los Angeles or seeking a direct flight to your destination, these gateways to the skies offer options for every traveler.
Bakersfield, California, is served primarily by Meadows Field Airport (BFL), located just north of the city. For more options, travelers can consider flying into Burbank Airport (BUR) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), both about a two-hour drive from Bakersfield. These larger airports offer more flight choices and destinations but require additional ground transportation to reach Bakersfield.
Airports Close to Bakersfield CA
Bakersfield, California is served by several nearby airports. The main commercial airport is Meadows Field Airport, located about 3 miles northwest of downtown Bakersfield.
For general aviation, Bakersfield Municipal Airport and Shafter-Minter Field are local options. These airports provide various levels of service for both commercial and private flights in the Bakersfield area.
| AIRPORT NAME | DISTANCE FROM BAKERSFIELD CA | ESTIMATED DRIVING TIME |
| Bakersfield Municipal Airport | 3.8 miles | 8 minutes |
| Meadows Field Airport | 8.1 miles | 13 minutes |
| Visalia Municipal Airport | 74.5 miles | 1 hour 9 minutes |
International Airports near Bakersfield, CA
While Bakersfield itself doesn’t host an international airport, several options within driving distance offer international flights. These airports provide a wider range of destinations and airlines for travelers from the Bakersfield area, enhancing connectivity to global destinations.
| AIRPORT NAME | DISTANCE FROM BAKERSFIELD CA | ESTIMATED DRIVING TIME |
| Fresno Yosemite International Airport | 110 miles | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Los Angeles International Airport | 116 miles | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Ontario International Airport | 148 miles | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| John Wayne Airport | 151 miles | 2 hours 24 minutes |
Meadows Field Airport (ICAO: KBFL, IATA: BFL, FAA LID: BFL)
Meadows Field Airport serves as the primary commercial airport for this and Kern County. Its convenient location just north of the city center makes it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Offering a gateway to the region without the need for long drives to distant airports. Meadows Field Airport is the primary commercial airport serving Bakersfield, California. It offers daily flights to several major cities, including Denver, Phoenix, and San Francisco.
The airport features two runways and handles both passenger and cargo traffic, serving as an important transportation hub for Kern County.
Runway and Terminal Information
Meadows Field Airport boasts two runways to accommodate various aircraft types, ensuring flexibility in operations and the ability to handle different weather conditions.
| RUNWAY DESIGNATION | DIMENSION | SURFACE |
| 12L/30R | 10,855 ft by 150 ft (3,309 m by 46 m) | Asphalt |
| 12R/30L | 7,703 ft by 100 ft (2,348 m by 30 m) | Asphalt |
The airport features two distinct terminals, each serving a specific purpose in the airport’s operations. The William M. Thomas Terminal opened in 2006, stands as a modern facility dedicated to commercial passenger flights.
This terminal offers amenities such as car rental services, dining options, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers. The older Kern County Terminal now primarily handles general aviation traffic and charter flights.
This repurposing of the original terminal allows Meadows Field to efficiently manage different types of air traffic, providing essential services for private pilots and smaller aircraft operations.
Airlines and Destinations
Meadows Field Airport currently serves several key destinations through major airlines, providing crucial connections for its residents and visitors.
United Airlines offers daily flights to Denver International Airport (DEN), a major hub that opens up connections to United’s extensive global network.
This route allows travelers from Bakersfield to access hundreds of domestic and international destinations with just one stop. American Airlines complements United’s service by providing flights to two important hubs: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
These connections give passengers access to America’s vast network of domestic and international routes, further expanding the travel possibilities from Bakersfield.
| Airline | Destinations |
| American Airlines | Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport |
| Southwest Airlines | Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, Oakland International Airport |
| United Airlines | Denver International Airport, San Francisco International Airport |
Technical data
Meadows Field Airport sits at an elevation of 510 feet (155 m) above sea level, a factor that influences its operations and the types of aircraft it can accommodate.
The airport is equipped with an operational air traffic control tower, ensuring safe and efficient movement of aircraft in its airspace.
For precision approaches, particularly in low visibility conditions, Runway 30R is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS). This sophisticated navigation aid significantly enhances safety and allows for operations in a wider range of weather conditions.
| ICAO CODE | KBFL |
| IATA CODE | BFL |
| FAA LID | BFL |
| AREA | 1,357 acres (549 ha) |
| ELEVATION | 510 ft (155 m) AMSL |
| RUNWAY | 12L/30R (10,855 ft long) – Asphalt Surface12R/30L (7,703 ft long) – Asphalt Surface |
The airport provides both 100LL (low-lead aviation gasoline) and Jet A (jet fuel) to cater to the diverse needs of aircraft operating at the facility. Additional navigational aids, including VOR/DME and GPS approaches, further support pilots in safely navigating to and from the airport.
Bakersfield Municipal Airport (FAA LID: L45)
Bakersfield Municipal Airport, also known as Elk Hills-Buttonwillow Airport, is a general aviation facility located southwest of the city center. This airport plays a vital role in the local aviation ecosystem, primarily serving private and charter aircraft.
Bakersfield Municipal Airport is a public-use airport located in Bakersfield, California. It primarily serves general aviation aircraft and is owned by the City of Bakersfield. The airport has a single runway and covers an area of approximately 200 acres.
Runway and Terminal Information
Bakersfield Municipal Airport features a single runway that caters to the needs of general aviation aircraft. Designated as Runway 16/34, it measures 3,370 feet in length and 60 feet in width.
While more modest in size compared to Meadows Field, this runway is well-suited for small to medium-sized general aviation aircraft, supporting a wide range of private and business aviation activities.
The airport is equipped with a small terminal building that houses essential facilities for pilots and passengers. This building includes administrative offices, pilot briefing areas, and basic amenities for visitors.
While not designed for commercial airline operations, the terminal efficiently serves the needs of general aviation users, providing a comfortable and functional space for flight planning and rest.
| Category | Runway Information | Terminal Facilities |
| Runway Length | 8,500 feet | Efficient check-in counters |
| Aircraft Compatibility | Domestic and International | Comfortable waiting areas |
| Terminal Features | Modern amenities | Range of facilities for passengers |
| Overall Capacity | Accommodates various aircraft | Seamless travel experience |
Bakersfield Municipal Airport Airlines and Destinations
As a dedicated general aviation airport, Bakersfield Municipal does not offer scheduled commercial service. Instead, it accommodates a diverse range of aviation activities that are crucial to the local community and economy.
Private aircraft operations form a significant part of the airport’s traffic, allowing individuals and businesses to utilize their aircraft for travel and transportation.
Flight training schools frequently use the airport, taking advantage of its less congested airspace to provide instruction to aspiring pilots. This educational aspect contributes to the development of skilled aviators and supports the broader aviation industry.
Charter flights also operate from Bakersfield Municipal, offering on-demand air travel services for individuals and groups. These flights provide flexibility and convenience for those needing to reach destinations not served by regular commercial routes.
Read This Blog: Exploring Southwest Terminal In Atlanta Airport
Corporate aviation finds a home at Bakersfield Municipal as well, with businesses utilizing the airport for efficient travel to and from the region. The airport’s ability to accommodate these corporate flights enhances its appeal as a business destination.
Technical Information
Bakersfield Municipal Airport sits at an elevation of 378 feet (115 m) above sea level, influencing its operational characteristics and the types of aircraft it can safely accommodate. Unlike larger commercial airports.
Bakersfield Municipal does not have an air traffic control tower, operating as an uncontrolled airport where pilots communicate directly with each other to coordinate movements. The airport provides 100LL (low-lead aviation gasoline) fuel, catering to the needs of piston-engine aircraft that frequently use the facility.
For navigation, the airport is equipped with GPS approaches, allowing for instrument operations in various weather conditions. A rotating beacon helps pilots locate the airport, especially during night operations.
To enhance safety during low-light conditions, the airport features a pilot-controlled runway lighting system. This allows pilots to activate the runway lights as needed, conserving energy when the airport is not in use while ensuring illumination is available when required for takeoffs and landings.
| Feature | Specification |
| Runway Length | 8,000 feet |
| Instrument Landing System | Yes |
| Control Tower | Operational |
| Aircraft Parking | Multiple Aprons |
| Navigation Systems | ILS, VOR, GPS |
| Fueling Services | Available |
| Maintenance Facilities | On-site |
| Terminal Facilities | Modern and Well-equipped |
| Air Traffic Control | 24/7 Operations |
| Location | Bakersfield, California |
Visalia Municipal Airport (ICAO: KVIS, IATA: VIS, FAA LID: VIS)
Visalia Municipal Airport is a public airport located in Visalia, California. It serves the southern San Joaquin Valley, offering both general aviation and commercial flights. The airport features a single runway and provides services for private pilots, charter operations, and limited scheduled passenger flights.
While smaller than major hubs, Visalia Municipal Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the local community to the wider world of air travel. While not located in Bakersfield, Visalia Municipal Airport is worth mentioning due to its proximity, being situated approximately 71 miles north of the city.
Visalia Municipal: Runway-Terminal-Airlines-Destinations
| Aspect | Data |
| Runway Length | 7,599 feet |
| Terminal Capacity | 200 passengers per hour |
| Airlines Serving | Regional carriers |
| Destinations | Regional destinations |
The terminal building at Visalia Municipal, while modest in size compared to major airports, offers functional amenities for travelers. It includes a passenger waiting area, ticketing counters, and car rental services, providing essential facilities for those departing from or arriving at the airport.
Read This Blog: A Travel Guide To Air Canada Boston Terminal
In terms of commercial service, Visalia Municipal Airport is served by Advanced Air, which provides essential air service to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This crucial link to a major international hub allows Visalia and nearby residents, including those from the Bakersfield area, to access LAX’s extensive network of domestic and international flights with just a short commuter flight.
VIS Technical Information
| ICAO CODE | KVIS |
| IATA CODE | VIS |
| FAA LID | VIS |
| AREA | 821 acres (332 ha) |
| ELEVATION | 295 ft (90 m) AMSL |
| RUNWAY | 16/34 (4,000 ft long) – Asphalt Surface |
For precision approaches, particularly in low visibility conditions, Runway 30 is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS). This sophisticated navigation aid significantly enhances safety and allows for operations in a wider range of weather conditions.
The airport provides both 100LL (low-lead aviation gasoline) and Jet A (jet fuel), catering to the needs of various aircraft types that utilize the facility. Additional navigational aids, including VOR/DME and GPS approaches, further support pilots in safely navigating to and from the airport under different weather conditions.
FAQ’s
How many airports does Bakersfield have?
Bakersfield has two primary airports: Meadows Field Airport (BFL) for commercial flights and Bakersfield Municipal Airport (L45) for general aviation.
Which airport is closest to Bakersfield CA?
Meadows Field Airport (BFL) is the closest commercial airport, located just 3 miles northwest of downtown Bakersfield.
Which airlines fly from Bakersfield?
Currently, United Airlines and American Airlines offer commercial flights from Bakersfield’s Meadows Field Airport.
What airlines fly out of Meadows Field Airport?
United Airlines and American Airlines operate out of Meadows Field Airport, offering connections to major hubs.
Is there a shuttle from Bakersfield to LAX?
Yes, several shuttle services operate between Bakersfield and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), providing an alternative to flying or driving.
Conclusion
Bakersfield, CA, benefits from a diverse array of aviation options that cater to various travel needs. While the city itself may not host a major international airport, the combination of local facilities and nearby international hubs ensures that residents and visitors have access to a wide range of air travel possibilities.
Meadows Field Airport stands out as the primary gateway for commercial flights in Bakersfield, offering crucial connections to major airline hubs. These connections open up a world of travel opportunities, allowing passengers to reach destinations across the globe with just one stop.
The airport’s modern facilities and convenient location make it an attractive option for both business and leisure travelers.
Complementing Meadows Field, Bakersfield Municipal Airport plays a vital role in supporting general aviation activities. From flight training to private charters, this airport contributes significantly to the local aviation ecosystem and economy. Its presence ensures that Bakersfield remains accessible to a diverse range of aircraft and aviation purposes.
Our fashion-forward website is your go-to destination for the latest trends, style tips, and designer insights. From runway reviews to street style inspirations, we curate the best in fashion, helping you express your unique personality through clothing, accessories, and beauty looks.
