Bradley International Airport (IATA: BDL – ICAO: KBDL) is New England’s second-largest airport and the Hartford-Springfield region’s primary airport. It is located in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, and serves domestic and limited international flights. The airport provides convenient access to travellers from Connecticut, Massachusetts, and beyond. It is approximately 24 kilometres north of Hartford and 32 kilometres south of Springfield, Massachusetts.

Operated by the Connecticut Airport Authority, Bradley provides easy access to major cities and holiday destinations. Its well-planned parking, car rentals, and public transport facilities ensure smooth travel experiences.

More than just a transit point, Bradley International Airport hosts community events. It informs passengers through social media and its official website, making it a practical choice for travellers from Connecticut and neighbouring states. For details, visit Bradley International Airport.

General Information – Bradley Airport

Location: Windsor Locks, Connecticut
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: BDL
ICAO Code: KBDL
Elevation: 173 feet (53 metres)
Coordinates: 41°56′20″N 72°41′00″W
Timezone: UTC−5 (EST), UTC−4 (EDT in summer)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 24 km (15 miles) north of Hartford
Website: www.bradleyairport.com
Operator: Connecticut Airport Authority
Services: Domestic and limited international flights, cargo, and general aviation

Bradley Airport Details

Runways: 2
Runway Designations and Lengths:
06/24: 2,872 m (9,422 ft) – Asphalt
15/33: 2,286 m (7,500 ft) – Asphalt
Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
Runway Strength: Supports regional and narrow-body jets; capable of handling wide-body aircraft
Fire Services: ARFF Category 9
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS, VOR/DME, RNAV, GPS
Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available for international arrivals
Aircraft Types: Regional, narrow-body, and limited wide-body aircraft
Terminals: One main terminal with two concourses (A and B)
Cargo Facilities: Dedicated air cargo area with FedEx and UPS operations
Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
FBOs: Atlantic Aviation
Equipment: GPU, potable water, lavatory service, de-icing
Ground Services: Full airline, cargo, and general aviation handling

Flight Operations – Bradley Airport

Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA (CBP coordination required)
Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled international flights
Slots: Not required
Aircraft Types: All types, including regional jets, B737, A321, and occasional wide-body
Alternate Airports:
BDR: Sikorsky Memorial Airport
PVD: T.F. Green Airport
BOS: Boston Logan International Airport

Contact Information

Enquiries: +1 860-292-2000
Email: info@bradleyairport.com
FBO Coordination: Atlantic Aviation – bdl@atlanticaviation.com

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: U.S. visa, ESTA, or passport as per entry requirements
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/license, General Declaration, visa if applicable
Transport Options: Rental cars, taxis, Uber/Lyft, CT Transit buses, hotel shuttles
Nearby Accommodation:
Near Airport: Sheraton Hartford Hotel at BDL, Holiday Inn Express Windsor Locks
In Hartford: The Goodwin Hotel, Marriott Hartford Downtown
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major cards accepted

Location and Accessibility

Bradley International Airport is located in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, about 15 miles north of Hartford. It is easily reachable by car via Interstate 91 and Route 20.

Public transport options include shuttle buses and taxis, with some services connecting to nearby train stations. This makes it convenient for passengers without private transport.

Multiple lots, including short-term and long-term options, offer parking. Dedicated areas for rental cars and drop-offs help streamline passenger flow.

Airport Facilities and Services

The airport offers several facilities catering to various traveller needs. These include free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals and charging stations for electronic devices.

Dining options range from quick-service outlets to sit-down restaurants featuring local and national chains. Shopping is also available, including convenience stores, newsstands, and gift shops.

Business travellers can access conference rooms and lounges, while family services include play areas for children and assistance for travellers with disabilities. Currency exchange and baggage services are also present.

Terminals and Layout

Bradley International Airport has one main terminal divided into two concourses: A and B. Each concourse serves domestic and some international flights.

Concourse A primarily hosts airlines like Delta and United, while Concourse B is used by American Airlines and Southwest. The layout is designed for easy navigation, with clear signage and walkways connecting sections.

The terminal includes customs and immigration facilities for international travellers. Security checkpoints near the entrance allow efficient passenger screening before boarding.

More details can be found at the official Bradley International Airport website.

Flights and Airlines

Bradley International Airport serves a range of destinations and airlines, providing passenger and cargo services. It connects travellers to various locations, and many airline options operate regularly.

Domestic and International Destinations

BDL offers flights to many domestic cities such as New York, Chicago, and Atlanta. These routes cover important economic and leisure hubs across the United States.

International routes include destinations in Canada, Ireland, and Bermuda. The airport supports short-haul and transatlantic flights, making it a convenient choice for regional and global travellers.

Flight options frequently vary by season, with some international services operating year-round and others available more during peak travel periods.

Passenger Airlines Operating at BDL

Multiple airlines operate at Bradley International Airport, including major carriers like American Airlines, Delta, and United. Low-cost airlines such as Frontier and Breeze Airways also provide service, giving passengers choices based on budget and schedule.

Additional airlines serving the airport include Aer Lingus, Avelo Airlines, BermudAir, and JetBlue. These airlines cover domestic and international markets, ensuring a diverse selection for travellers.

Passengers can easily check flight status and schedules on the airport’s live arrivals and departures board for updated information.

Cargo Services

Bradley International supports cargo operations that are essential to the regional economy. Freight handling includes medical supplies, e-commerce packages, and other time-sensitive goods.

The airport facilitates cargo flights by dedicated cargo airlines and passenger flights with cargo capacity. This mix helps streamline shipping and logistics from southern New England and beyond.

Efficient cargo service at BDL helps businesses maintain supply chains and meet delivery commitments across multiple industries.

Transport and Parking Options – Bradley Airport

Bradley International Airport offers several ways to get to and from the terminal. It also provides a range of parking choices that suit different needs and budgets.

Ground Transportation Choices

Passengers can travel to Bradley International Airport using buses, trains, taxis, rideshare services, or limousines. The airport has a dedicated Ground Transportation Centre where all these options are easily found.

Public buses and trains connect the airport with nearby cities. Taxis and rideshares offer a flexible way to get to the terminal quickly. Limousine services are available for those seeking more comfort and privacy.

The airport also has cell phone waiting lots where drivers can pause before picking up passengers. This helps reduce congestion near the terminals.

Parking Facilities

Bradley International Airport provides several parking options. These include garages and surface lots, both on-airport. Rates start at about £5-6 per day; no reservation is needed for official spaces.

There are also off-airport parking providers nearby. Some of these, like LAZ Fly and Z Airport Parking, offer shuttle service from their lots to the terminal. These options may provide competitive pricing and convenience.

Passengers can earn rewards by using official airport parking. Multiple parking types accommodate short-term visitors and long-term travellers. Parking areas are secure and well-maintained.

For detailed parking options and prices, the airport’s official parking page offers current information, including garage and surface options.

Nearby Hotels and Amenities

Bradley International Airport offers several hotel options nearby, making travel convenient. Passengers can access well-known hotel chains, many within a short drive, and some with shuttle services.

The airport also offers various dining and shopping choices, providing travellers with options for meals and last-minute necessities.

On-Site and Adjacent Accommodation

The Sheraton Hartford Hotel is located at the airport, making it the most convenient for travellers needing quick access. It offers airport shuttles, meeting rooms, and fitness facilities.

Nearby hotels within 6 to 7 miles include the Hilton Garden Inn, Hartford-Windsor Marriott, and Courtyard by Marriott Windsor. All provide comfortable stays with easy access to the airport via shuttle or a short drive.

Other options include the Hampton Inn Hartford/Airport and Holiday Inn Express, both popular for business and leisure. These hotels often feature complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi, ideal for short visits.

Dining and Shopping Options

Inside the terminal, Bradley International Airport has a mix of dining choices. Passengers can find quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, and casual sit-down places.

For shopping, travellers can purchase travel essentials, snacks, and gifts from various shops in the terminal. These include convenience stores and specialty retailers.

Nearby hotels often have restaurants outside the airport. Some are close to local dining spots offering different cuisine options, enhancing the traveller’s experience without requiring long trips.

For more information about hotels near the airport, see the Hotels near Bradley International Airport listing.

Local Attractions

Mark Twain House & Museum

The historic home of the famed author, offering guided tours and literary exhibits.

Connecticut Science Centre

The interactive science museum is perfect for families and educational outings.

Springfield Museums

A collection of five museums is located near Springfield, Massachusetts, including the Dr. Seuss Museum.

Elizabeth Park Rose Garden

A public park in Hartford is known for its extensive rose garden and scenic trails.

Basketball Hall of Fame

Located in Springfield, MA, honouring basketball legends through interactive exhibits and memorabilia.

Bushnell Park

One of the oldest public parks in the U.S., offering a carousel, walking paths, and downtown access.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit:
May–Oct: Pleasant weather and cultural events
Nov–Apr: Winter season with potential snowfall and holiday activities

Additional Notes:
Bradley International Airport offers a quieter, more manageable experience than larger Northeast airports. The terminal has been recently updated with enhanced dining, retail, and digital services. A new ground transportation centre has improved rental car and parking access for travellers.

Frequently Asked Questions – Bradley Airport

Bradley International Airport offers various transport options, parking choices, and clear passenger guidelines. A different name is also known in the local area. The airport’s size compared to others in Connecticut highlights its regional importance.

What are the transportation options available to and from Bradley Airport?

Travellers can use taxis, ride-sharing services, buses, and car rentals. Shuttle services are also available to nearby hotels. The airport is easily accessible by road.

Where can I find information on live arrival times for flights coming into Bradley Airport?

Flight status, including live arrival times, can be checked on the airport’s official website or through airline apps. Many travel websites and apps also provide updated flight information.

What are the parking facilities and charges at Bradley Airport?

The airport provides several parking options, including economy, garage, and valet parking. Prices vary by lot and duration of stay, and booking may be available through the official parking service.

Could you tell me if Hartford Springfield Airport is synonymous with Bradley Airport?

Hartford Springfield Airport is another commonly used name for Bradley International Airport, reflecting its service to the Hartford, Connecticut, and Springfield, Massachusetts, areas.

What guidelines should passengers adhere to regarding check-in times at Bradley Airport?

Passengers are advised to arrive early for check-in. Most airline counters open between 4:00 am and 5:00 am. It is best to verify specific airline requirements before travel.

How does Bradley International Airport rank in size compared to other Connecticut airports?

Bradley International is the largest airport in Connecticut. It handles more passengers and flights than any other airport in the state. Terminals operate 24 hours a day. For more details, visit the airport FAQs.