Soaring to the Poconos: Your Guide to Airlines Serving the Region

The Poconos, a majestic mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a tranquil escape. Getting there by air requires a bit of strategic planning. While there isn’t a major international airport directly within the Poconos, several regional and international airports located nearby offer convenient access. Therefore, no major commercial airlines fly directly to the Poconos region. However, you can fly into nearby airports, such as Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) in Allentown, PA, and then drive to your final destination in the Poconos. Smaller, private airports also exist within the Poconos region, but these primarily cater to private aircraft.

Understanding Your Airport Options Near the Poconos

Your journey to the Poconos often begins at a nearby airport, making airport selection a key step in your travel planning. Consider factors such as distance, airline options, and ground transportation when choosing the best airport for your trip.

Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) – Your Gateway to the Poconos

Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is arguably the most convenient commercial airport for accessing the Poconos. It’s approximately a 45-minute to 1.5-hour drive to various Poconos destinations, depending on your specific location within the region.

• Airlines serving ABE: This airport is served by several major airlines, including Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
• Destinations from ABE: These airlines offer flights to a variety of destinations across the United States, including popular hubs like Charlotte, Atlanta, Detroit, and Newark.
• Ground Transportation: ABE provides various ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services, to facilitate your journey to the Poconos.

Other Airport Alternatives

While ABE is often the top choice, several other airports offer viable alternatives, depending on your origin and preferences. These include:

• Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP): Located north of the Poconos, AVP is served by American Airlines and United Airlines. Driving distance to some Poconos locations can be around an hour.
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Although further away in New Jersey, EWR is a major international hub served by numerous airlines. Consider this option if you’re flying internationally or if you find more convenient flights here. Expect a driving time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the Poconos.
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Another major hub, PHL offers a wide range of flight options but is located further south. The drive to the Poconos can take around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to the Poconos:

1. Are there any airports directly in the Poconos that commercial airlines fly to? No, there are no major commercial airports directly within the Poconos. You will need to fly into a nearby airport and drive to your final destination. Smaller, private airports do exist for private aircraft.

2. Which airport is the closest and most convenient for accessing the Poconos? Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) in Allentown, PA, is generally considered the most convenient due to its proximity and the availability of major airlines.

3. What airlines fly into Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)? ABE is served by Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

4. What are the ground transportation options from Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) to the Poconos? You can choose from rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. Pre-booking a rental car is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

5. How far is Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) from popular Poconos destinations like Jim Thorpe and Stroudsburg? The drive time from ABE to Jim Thorpe is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, while the drive to Stroudsburg is around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

6. Are there any smaller airports closer to the Poconos than ABE? Yes, there are smaller, private airports, but these primarily cater to private aircraft and do not offer commercial flights.

7. Should I consider flying into Newark (EWR) or Philadelphia (PHL) instead of ABE? Consider EWR or PHL if you’re flying internationally, can’t find suitable flights into ABE, or find significantly cheaper fares. However, factor in the longer drive time and associated costs.

8. What are the advantages of flying into Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP)? AVP might be a good option if you’re heading to the northern part of the Poconos. It’s generally less crowded than EWR or PHL.

9. What time of year is the best time to fly into the Poconos area? The best time depends on your activities. Summer is popular for outdoor recreation, fall for foliage, and winter for skiing. Be aware that peak seasons can result in higher airfares and more crowded airports.

10. How can I find the best deals on flights to airports near the Poconos? Use flight comparison websites like Kayak, Google Flights, and Skyscanner. Be flexible with your travel dates, consider flying on weekdays, and book in advance (but not too far in advance).

11. Are there shuttle services from any of the nearby airports to the Poconos? Shuttle services are not as common as rental cars or ride-sharing. It’s best to check with individual shuttle companies or transportation providers operating in the area. Pre-booking is essential.

12. What should I pack for a trip to the Poconos, considering the weather and activities? Pack according to the season. In summer, bring light clothing, swimwear, and hiking gear. In fall, pack layers for cooler temperatures. In winter, bring warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, as well as waterproof boots. Consider packing insect repellent and sunscreen.

Ultimately, planning your air travel to the Poconos involves weighing factors like proximity, airline availability, and cost. By considering the options presented above and carefully planning your ground transportation, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this beautiful mountain region. Remember to compare flight prices and book in advance for the best deals, especially during peak seasons. Happy travels!