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Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton Airport: Your Guide to Airlines and Destinations

Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton Airport (ABE), often simply called Allentown Airport, serves as a convenient gateway to the Lehigh Valley and beyond. Currently, four airlines provide scheduled passenger service from ABE: Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, and United Airlines.

Navigating the Airways from Allentown: A Deep Dive

While ABE might not boast the dizzying array of carriers found at larger hubs, the airlines it hosts offer a respectable variety of destinations, catering to both leisure and business travelers. Let’s examine each airline’s offerings in more detail.

Allegiant Air: Focusing on Leisure Travelers

Allegiant Air is known for its focus on leisure travel and its low-cost carrier model. This translates to affordable fares, especially to popular vacation destinations. From Allentown, Allegiant typically operates seasonal and year-round routes to cities such as:

Florida destinations: Orlando/Sanford (SFB), Punta Gorda (PGD), St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE)
Other Sun Belt destinations: Myrtle Beach (MYR)

Allegiant’s schedule can fluctuate depending on the season, so checking their website directly for the most up-to-date information is always recommended. Keep an eye out for their promotional fares, which can be exceptionally budget-friendly.

American Airlines: Connecting You to the World

American Airlines provides crucial connectivity from Allentown to its major hubs. This allows passengers to access American’s vast network of domestic and international flights. From ABE, American Airlines primarily operates flights to:

Charlotte (CLT): A major hub providing access to the Southeast, Caribbean, and South America.
Philadelphia (PHL): Another significant hub, offering connections throughout the US, Europe, and beyond.

Flying American from Allentown offers the advantage of seamless connections and access to American Airlines’ loyalty program benefits.

Breeze Airways: New Routes and Affordable Fares

Breeze Airways, a relative newcomer to the aviation scene, has brought a fresh approach to flying from ABE. Breeze aims to connect underserved cities with convenient and affordable service. From Allentown, Breeze currently offers (and has offered) destinations such as:

Hartford (BDL)
Charleston (CHS)
Jacksonville (JAX)
New Orleans (MSY)

Breeze Airways’ network and schedule may evolve, so staying informed about their latest offerings is advisable. Keep an eye out for their “Seriously Nice” and “Nicest” fares, which offer added perks.

United Airlines: Expanding Your Reach

United Airlines provides Allentown travelers with access to its global network via its hub. This enables travelers from the Lehigh Valley to connect to destinations worldwide. United Airlines operates flights from ABE to:

Newark (EWR): A major United hub, providing access to numerous domestic and international destinations.

Choosing United from Allentown opens up a world of possibilities, with convenient connections and the benefits of United’s MileagePlus loyalty program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are there any international flights directly from Allentown Airport?

No, currently there are no scheduled direct international flights operating from Allentown Airport. However, passengers can connect to international destinations through hubs like Philadelphia (PHL), Newark (EWR), and Charlotte (CLT) via American Airlines and United Airlines.

2. How can I find the cheapest flights from Allentown?

Several strategies can help you find affordable flights. Consider these tips:

Be flexible with your travel dates: Adjusting your travel dates by a few days or weeks can sometimes yield significant savings.
Book in advance: Generally, booking several weeks or months ahead of your travel date can help secure better fares.
Use flight comparison websites: Utilize websites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner to compare prices from different airlines.
Consider budget airlines: Allegiant Air and Breeze Airways often offer lower fares, especially if you are willing to forgo certain amenities.
Sign up for email alerts: Subscribe to email newsletters from airlines and travel agencies to receive notifications about special deals and promotions.

3. Does ABE offer any charter flights?

Yes, while scheduled passenger service is provided by the airlines mentioned above, Allentown Airport also accommodates charter flights. These are often operated by smaller companies and cater to specific groups or events. Contacting ABE directly or searching for charter flight operators in the region can provide more information.

4. What are the parking options at Allentown Airport?

Allentown Airport offers several parking options to accommodate different budgets and preferences. These typically include:

Short-term parking: Ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers.
Long-term parking: A more cost-effective option for travelers leaving their vehicles for extended periods.
Economy parking: The most budget-friendly choice, often located a bit further from the terminal.

Check the ABE website for the most up-to-date parking rates and availability.

5. Are there rental car services available at Allentown Airport?

Yes, major rental car companies typically have a presence at Allentown Airport. These may include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. It’s advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

6. What ground transportation options are available from Allentown Airport?

Besides rental cars, other ground transportation options from Allentown Airport include:

Taxis: Readily available outside the terminal.
Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft operate in the area.
Public transportation: LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority) provides bus service to and from the airport.
Private car services: Pre-booked car services can offer a more personalized transportation experience.

7. Does Allentown Airport have TSA PreCheck?

Yes, Allentown Airport participates in the TSA PreCheck program, allowing eligible travelers to expedite their security screening process. If you are a TSA PreCheck member, be sure to enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN) when booking your flight.

8. What amenities are available at Allentown Airport?

Allentown Airport offers a range of amenities to enhance the traveler experience, including:

Restaurants and cafes: Providing food and beverage options before or after your flight.
Gift shops: Selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and reading materials.
Free Wi-Fi: Allowing passengers to stay connected.
Charging stations: For electronic devices.
Nursing room: For traveling mothers.
Pet relief area: For passengers traveling with animals.

9. How early should I arrive at Allentown Airport before my flight?

It is generally recommended to arrive at Allentown Airport at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time, especially during peak travel periods. This allows ample time for parking, checking in, going through security, and reaching your gate.

10. Are there any hotels near Allentown Airport?

Yes, several hotels are located in close proximity to Allentown Airport, offering convenient accommodation options for travelers. These range from budget-friendly to more upscale choices. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy travel seasons.

11. What are some tips for traveling through Allentown Airport?

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience at Allentown Airport, consider these tips:

Check your flight status: Before heading to the airport, verify your flight’s status online or through your airline’s app.
Pack smart: Adhere to TSA guidelines regarding prohibited items and liquid restrictions.
Wear comfortable shoes: You may need to walk a bit to reach your gate.
Have your travel documents ready: Keep your boarding pass and ID readily accessible.
Arrive early: This provides a buffer in case of unexpected delays.
Familiarize yourself with the airport layout: Consult the ABE website or airport maps to locate amenities and your gate.

12. How do I contact Allentown Airport customer service?

You can reach Allentown Airport customer service through various channels:

Phone: Contact the airport’s main phone number, which can be found on their website.
Email: Check the ABE website for a contact form or email address.
Website: Visit the airport’s website for information and answers to frequently asked questions.

By understanding which airlines fly out of Allentown and utilizing these tips and resources, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience from the Lehigh Valley. Safe travels!