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Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is a public airport located about three miles northwest of downtown Bellingham, Washington, near the Canadian border. Originally developed in the early 1940s and used for military purposes during World War II, it now offers commercial service primarily through Alaska Airlines and Allegiant Air. Its proximity to British Columbia makes it a popular alternative for travelers from Greater Vancouver seeking lower fares and easier parking.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors use the free cell phone waiting lot off Mitchell Way for pickups and choose the long-term lot, which is often cheaper than Seattle or Vancouver but can fill during Allegiant departure banks.
🚖 Getting There
By car, take I-5 to exit 258 (Bakerview Road) and follow signs to the terminal; the airport is about 3 miles from downtown. Whatcom Transportation Authority provides bus service between the airport and downtown Bellingham, and taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are available on-site. For Canadian travelers, allow extra time for border crossings at Peace Arch or Pacific Highway, especially on weekends.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines serve Bellingham International Airport?
A: Commercial service is primarily provided by Alaska Airlines, operated by Horizon Air, with flights to Seattle, and Allegiant Air with nonstop routes to destinations such as Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Los Angeles, Oakland, and San Diego. Seasonal and charter flights may also be available.
Q: How far is BLI from downtown Bellingham and Vancouver, BC?
A: The airport is about 3 miles (5 km) northwest of downtown Bellingham. It is roughly 50 miles (80 km) south of Vancouver, British Columbia, and about 90 miles (145 km) north of Seattle.
Q: Is there parking at the airport?
A: Yes, BLI has short-term and long-term parking lots within walking distance of the terminal, plus a free cell phone waiting lot for pickups. Rates are generally lower than at larger airports in Seattle or Vancouver.
Q: Does Bellingham International Airport have customs?
A: Yes, the airport has U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities for international arrivals, though scheduled international passenger service varies. It is designated as an international airport.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 28, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash