Where to Fly In for Cape Cod?
The best airport to fly into for Cape Cod depends on your specific destination, budget, and preferred level of convenience. However, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) generally offers the widest range of flight options and rental car availability, while smaller regional airports closer to the Cape may provide a more relaxed and direct experience.
Navigating Cape Cod’s Airways: A Comprehensive Guide
Cape Cod, with its idyllic beaches, charming towns, and rich history, is a popular vacation destination. However, getting there requires careful planning, especially when flying. Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your travel time, expenses, and overall experience. This guide offers a detailed overview of the airports serving Cape Cod and the surrounding area, helping you make the best decision for your trip.
The Main Contenders: Airports Serving the Cape
Several airports serve Cape Cod and its vicinity, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. These include:
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): The largest and busiest airport in New England, offering extensive domestic and international flights.
- Providence T.F. Green International Airport (PVD): A smaller, more convenient alternative to Boston, located in Rhode Island.
- Barnstable Municipal Airport (HYA): Located in Hyannis, Cape Cod, offering limited commercial flights and private aviation services.
- New Bedford Regional Airport (EWB): Located just west of Cape Cod, providing some commercial service and general aviation.
Boston Logan (BOS): The Gateway to New England
Boston Logan is the most common entry point for travelers heading to Cape Cod. Its extensive network of flights from around the world makes it a convenient option for many.
- Pros: Wide range of flight options, competitive prices (often), numerous rental car agencies, readily available public transportation to Boston.
- Cons: Can be crowded and stressful, requires driving (approx. 1.5-2 hours) to reach most of Cape Cod, potential for traffic delays.
Providence T.F. Green (PVD): A Convenient Alternative
Providence T.F. Green International Airport offers a less hectic alternative to Boston Logan. It’s located closer to the western part of Cape Cod, potentially saving driving time.
- Pros: Less crowded than Boston, shorter security lines, closer proximity to the western Cape (e.g., Bourne, Falmouth), often cheaper flights than Boston.
- Cons: Fewer flight options than Boston, potentially fewer rental car choices.
Barnstable Municipal Airport (HYA): Fly Directly to the Cape
Barnstable Municipal Airport in Hyannis offers the most direct access to Cape Cod. However, flight options are limited, and prices tend to be higher.
- Pros: Fly directly to the Cape, avoiding a long drive, convenient access to Hyannis and mid-Cape locations, small and easy to navigate.
- Cons: Limited flight options, higher ticket prices, fewer rental car options.
New Bedford Regional Airport (EWB): Another Regional Option
New Bedford Regional Airport is another regional airport, slightly closer than Providence for those accessing Western Cape Cod.
- Pros: Small airport with easier navigation, located relatively close to the Cape’s western entrance, potential for lower parking costs.
- Cons: Very limited commercial flights, primarily serves general aviation.
Weighing Your Options: A Comparative Analysis
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison of the key factors:
| Feature | Boston Logan (BOS) | Providence (PVD) | Barnstable (HYA) | New Bedford (EWB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight Options | Extensive | Moderate | Limited | Very Limited |
| Price (Flights) | Variable | Often Lower | Higher | Similar to PVD/BOS (when available) |
| Proximity to Cape | Farthest | Closer to West | On Cape | Closer to West |
| Rental Cars | Abundant | Moderate | Limited | Very Limited |
| Crowds | High | Low | Low | Very Low |
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airport
Several factors should influence your choice of airport:
- Your Final Destination: If you’re staying in Hyannis or nearby, flying into Barnstable may be worthwhile despite the higher cost.
- Budget: Boston and Providence generally offer more budget-friendly flight options.
- Travel Time: Consider the driving time from the airport to your final destination.
- Convenience: Weigh the convenience of a direct flight against the potential savings of flying into a larger airport.
- Time of Year: Summer flights into Barnstable will be significantly more expensive.
- Rental Car Availability: Book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
#### Is Boston Logan always the cheapest option?
No, Boston Logan is not always the cheapest. While it often has a wider range of flights, Providence T.F. Green (PVD) frequently offers lower fares, especially if you book in advance and are flexible with your travel dates. Compare prices carefully across both airports.
#### How long is the drive from Boston Logan to Cape Cod?
The drive from Boston Logan to Cape Cod typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your specific destination on the Cape. During peak season (summer weekends), expect significant delays, potentially adding an hour or more to your travel time.
#### Is there public transportation from Boston Logan to Cape Cod?
Yes, there is public transportation. The Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Company offers bus service from Boston Logan to various locations on Cape Cod, including Hyannis and Woods Hole. Check their schedule for departure times and fares.
#### Is it worth flying directly into Barnstable Municipal Airport?
Flying into Barnstable Municipal Airport (HYA) can be worth it if you value convenience and are willing to pay a premium. It eliminates the long drive from Boston or Providence, but flight options are limited, and prices are generally higher. This is especially true during the peak summer season.
#### How far in advance should I book my flights?
It’s generally recommended to book your flights to Cape Cod at least a few months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the summer. Booking early gives you a better chance of securing lower fares and ensuring availability, especially if you are considering a flight directly into Barnstable.
#### What are the best rental car options at each airport?
- Boston Logan (BOS): Offers a wide range of rental car agencies, including major brands like Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.
- Providence (PVD): Has a more limited selection but still includes major brands.
- Barnstable (HYA): Offers very limited options, so it’s crucial to book well in advance.
- New Bedford (EWB): Has very few or sometimes no available rental car options.
#### What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
Delays and cancellations can happen. If your flight is delayed, check with the airline for updates and alternative options. If it’s cancelled, the airline should rebook you on the next available flight or offer a refund. Consider travel insurance to cover potential expenses related to delays or cancellations.
#### Are there any smaller private airports on Cape Cod?
Yes, there are several smaller private airports and airstrips on Cape Cod that cater to general aviation. However, these are not typically used for commercial flights.
#### Is traffic really that bad getting onto Cape Cod?
Yes, traffic can be extremely heavy getting onto Cape Cod, especially on Fridays and Sundays during the summer months. Plan accordingly and allow extra travel time. Consider traveling during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid the worst congestion.
#### Are there shuttle services from the airports to Cape Cod hotels?
Some hotels on Cape Cod may offer shuttle services from Boston Logan or Providence. Check with your hotel directly to inquire about availability and pricing. Private shuttle services and ride-sharing options are also available.
#### What are the alternatives to renting a car on Cape Cod?
While renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Cape Cod, alternatives include:
- Public transportation (buses)
- Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft)
- Biking (especially in areas with bike paths)
- Taxis
#### What time of year is the best to visit Cape Cod?
The best time to visit Cape Cod depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather and beaches, but also the largest crowds and higher prices. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower rates.