California airports connect millions of travelers to cities across the United States and worldwide every year. From major international gateway airports in Los Angeles and San Francisco to dozens of regional and municipal airports, the state’s air travel network is one of the busiest and most diverse in the nation.
California airports serve a wide range of destinations and needs. International airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) handle vast amounts of passenger traffic. In contrast, smaller airports such as Bob Hope Airport in Burbank and Santa Ana’s John Wayne Airport are popular for domestic flights.
Whether someone is traveling for business, going on vacation, or visiting family, California’s airports offer convenience, variety, and access to nearly every part of the state. From remote mountain airstrips to busy urban terminals, airports in California support tourism, trade, and everyday life.
Contents
- 1 Major International Airports in California
- 2 Regional and Municipal Airports
- 3 Executive Airports and General Aviation Hubs
- 4 Notable County and City Airports
- 5 Domestic Flight Operations and Passenger Hubs
- 6 Airports Serving Northern California
- 7 Airports Serving Southern California
- 8 Mountain, Desert, and Coastal Airports
- 9 Airport Codes and Identification
- 10 Infrastructure and Community Impact
- 11 Frequently Asked Questions
- 11.1 What are the major international airports located in California?
- 11.2 How many airports are operational within the state of California?
- 11.3 Which airport is the most cost-effective to use when flying to California?
- 11.4 Where should one fly into when visiting Disneyland in California?
- 11.5 Can you provide a map of the airports located throughout California?
- 11.6 Which California airport is preferred by Delta Air Lines for domestic and international flights?
- 11.7 Related
Major International Airports in California
California’s main international airports serve millions of travelers annually and are essential entry points to the United States. Each airport has unique features, facilities, and airline connections, making it necessary for people flying to and from different countries.
Los Angeles International Airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the busiest airport in California and among the most important in the world. It is located in Los Angeles and handled nearly 88 million passengers in recent years. Many people use LAX as a gateway to Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
The airport has nine passenger terminals. Airlines from different countries, such as Delta, American, and United, have significant operations here. LAX offers direct flights to London, Tokyo, Sydney, and Mexico City.
Facilities at LAX include lounges, shops, and a wide variety of dining options. Travelers can use airport shuttles, buses, and ride-sharing services. LAX is about 18 miles from downtown Los Angeles, making it convenient for travelers. This overview of California airports provides more details about LAX.
San Francisco International Airport
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the main airport for the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a central hub for European, Asian, and Australian flights. SFO is known for its modern design and intense focus on passenger comfort.
There are four terminals at SFO—three for domestic flights and one for international travel. Some major airlines at SFO include United, Alaska, and British Airways. Destinations from SFO include Paris, Hong Kong, London, and Frankfurt.
SFO is around 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco. The airport is connected to the city by train (BART), bus, and car. Travelers appreciate the museum exhibits inside the terminals and various food options. For airport details, see the list of California’s major airports.
San Diego International Airport
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the main airport serving the San Diego area. It is located just three miles from downtown San Diego. While SAN handles domestic flights, it also has international connections, mainly to Canada, Mexico, and the UK.
The airport has one central terminal split into two parts: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Major airlines flying out of SAN include Southwest, Alaska, and Delta. SAN offers direct flights to London, Vancouver, and Mexico City.
SAN is known for its easy layout, quick access from the city, and short check-in lines. Travelers find the airport convenient for both business and leisure trips. You can learn more about SAN on this busiest airports in California list.
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) serves the Silicon Valley area. It is about three miles from downtown San Jose, making it easy for business travelers and residents to reach.
SJC has two terminals—Terminal A and Terminal B—serving a mix of domestic and international flights. International routes include destinations like Vancouver, Tokyo, London, and various cities in Mexico. Airlines at SJC include Southwest, Alaska, Delta, Volaris, and British Airways.
The airport offers modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and food options. SJC is smaller than LAX or SFO, so lines are usually shorter. Ground transportation includes car rentals, ride-shares, and public transit. For more on SJC, visit this California airport guide.
Regional and Municipal Airports
Regional and municipal airports in California play an essential role in connecting smaller cities to the rest of the country. They support business travel, tourism, and the movement of goods, making them valuable for local economies.
Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport is located in Fresno, near the center of the San Joaquin Valley. This airport is a gateway to three national parks: Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. It is the primary commercial airport in the region and has daily flights to major hubs like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, and Denver.
There are two runways, and the airport can handle domestic and limited international flights. Airlines flying out of Fresno include Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United. With convenient parking and modern terminals, Fresno Yosemite International is set up for families, business travelers, and tourists. Security lines are often shorter here compared to larger airports.
Ontario International Airport
Ontario International Airport is in San Bernardino County, about 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. It is popular with passengers from the Inland Empire and eastern Los Angeles County who want to avoid the traffic and crowds of LAX. The airport has two passenger terminals and handles both passenger and cargo operations.
Ontario International offers direct flights to cities such as Seattle, Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, and Mexico City. Major airlines include American, Delta, Southwest, Frontier, and United. Ontario is also one of the fastest-growing cargo airports in the United States. It has easy freeway access, efficient security checks, and plenty of parking near the terminals. Travelers often find the airport more manageable and less stressful than larger alternatives.
Sacramento International Airport
Sacramento International Airport, known as SMF, is located to the north of downtown Sacramento. It is the main airport serving the Greater Sacramento region and nearby counties. SMF provides nonstop flights to cities including Denver, Seattle, New York, Washington, D.C., Chicago, and several locations in Mexico.
The airport features two terminals (Terminal A and Terminal B), with a shuttle linking them. Airlines flying here include Southwest, United, American, Delta, and Alaska. Sacramento International Airport is recognized for its clean facilities, short lines, and efficient operations. Passengers appreciate the straightforward parking, helpful signs, and variety of food and shopping options. More about California airports and codes can be found at the California Airports Guide.
Executive Airports and General Aviation Hubs
California has several key executive airports supporting business travelers and private pilots. These airports offer specialized services, streamlined operations, and access to major economic regions.
Hayward Executive Airport
Hayward Executive Airport is in the East Bay, close to Oakland and Silicon Valley. It serves private jets, charter flights, and corporate aviation. The airport is popular with tech companies and medical transport services due to its proximity to business centers.
The airport has two runways, modern hangars, and a complete set of general aviation services. Pilots benefit from 24-hour operations, on-site fuel, and maintenance facilities. The control tower helps manage steady traffic, keeping arrivals and departures efficient.
A Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) provides lounges, conference space, and ground transportation. Customs facilities allow for international arrivals with prior arrangements. The airport has a reputation for high service standards and quick turnaround times, making it a strong choice for executive travel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Hayward, East Bay |
| Runways | 2 |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
| Services | FBO, fuel, customs |
Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport
Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport is situated in San Diego. It supports general aviation activities, including business flights, flight training, and medical airlifts. The airport is a significant base for private aircraft owners in Southern California.
Three runways accommodate light jets, turboprops, and single-engine planes. The airport’s facilities include aircraft maintenance, flight schools, avionics shops, and rental hangars. It is known for its strong pilot community and frequent aviation events.
The city manages airport operations, offering competitive rates and improved security. Pilots and passengers can use spacious lounges, Wi-Fi, and rental cars. Upgrades in recent years have enhanced taxiways, lighting, and navigation, making it safer and more efficient for general aviation in the region.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | San Diego |
| Runways | 3 |
| Focus | General aviation, training |
| Notable Services | Maintenance, flight schools |
Notable County and City Airports
Some airports in California serve mainly regional needs but are essential hubs for their communities. These airports handle private, charter, and some commercial flights. They also support crucial services like pilot training, cargo, and emergency response.
Napa County Airport
Napa County Airport is five miles south of downtown in California’s famous wine region. It is often called the “Gateway to the Napa Valley” because it connects visitors, business travelers, and wine industry professionals to the area.
The airport mainly handles general aviation, with private planes and charters being common. Though it no longer has regular commercial airline service, it once offered flights to Los Angeles and other destinations. Today, business travelers use it for fast access to Napa.
Napa County Airport is well-equipped for private aviation. It has three runways and can handle different types of aircraft. It offers flight training schools and aircraft maintenance services. Its proximity to world-class wineries makes it a popular choice for tourists seeking convenience.
Modesto City-County Airport
Modesto City-County Airport is located just two miles southeast of downtown Modesto. It is also known as Harry Sham Field in honor of a local aviation pioneer.
The airport has a rich history and once served several commercial airlines. Today, it focuses on general aviation, cargo, and charter flights. The facility often supports agricultural businesses in the Central Valley, helping with crop spraying and aerial surveys.
Its key features are a spacious passenger terminal and secure parking area. The airport is used by businesses, private pilots, and medical flights. Its proximity to the city center makes it convenient for travelers and businesses in Stanislaus County.
Marin County Airport
Marin County Airport, called Gnoss Field, is near Novato in Northern California. The Marin County manages this airport, which caters mainly to general aviation.
Gnoss Field has a single runway and offers hangars and tie-down spaces. It is a popular site for flight instruction, with several training schools operating on the field. Pilots often use the airport for recreational flying and as a base for travel to the Bay Area.
The airport is well-known for its supportive pilot community and hosting aviation events. Its location makes it a strategic spot for reaching Marin County and other parts of the North Bay. You can see details about airports like these at the complete list of California airports.
Domestic Flight Operations and Passenger Hubs
California airports play a key role in supporting domestic flight travel within the United States. Medium-sized airports like those in Orange County, Long Beach, and Burbank handle millions of passenger boardings yearly and connect travelers to many major U.S. cities.
John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport
John Wayne Airport (SNA) is located in Santa Ana and serves Orange County and the surrounding region. This airport focuses mainly on domestic flights, serving destinations such as Denver, Seattle, Dallas, and San Francisco. Airlines operating at SNA include Southwest, American, Delta, and United.
Passenger amenities are modern and easy to navigate, and wait times are usually shorter than at larger airports. SNA has three terminals, and its compact size helps passengers move quickly between check-in, security, and boarding gates.
John Wayne Airport ranks high among medium-sized U.S. airports for passenger satisfaction. The airport also follows strict noise regulations to limit the impact of air traffic on nearby neighborhoods. In 2023, it had over 3 million enplanements, making it one of the busiest regional airports in the state. For more details, see this California airport list.
Long Beach Airport
Long Beach Airport (LGB) is known for its easy access and smaller crowds than nearby major airports like LAX. Most flights are domestic, with nonstop service to cities such as Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City. JetBlue was the dominant carrier until recently, but now Southwest Airlines has a key presence.
LGB offers a laid-back atmosphere, open-air walkways, and fast security and baggage claim processing times. Its art deco terminal and outdoor seating make for a unique travel experience.
Passenger boardings have grown in recent years, with more than 1.5 million people flying out of LGB annually. The airport carefully limits the number of daily flights, helping reduce noise and air traffic congestion.
Bob Hope Airport
Bob Hope Airport (Burbank Airport, BUR) serves the northern Los Angeles area and is a popular option for travelers from the San Fernando Valley and Hollywood. BUR focuses heavily on domestic routes, with direct flights to cities like Oakland, Sacramento, Seattle, and New York.
Southwest, Alaska, and American Airlines operate at Bob Hope Airport. BUR is well-known for its convenient ground transportation; the airport is next to a major Amtrak and Metrolink station, making connecting easily by train.
Boarding is often faster at BUR than nearby LAX, and the airport’s two terminals are easy to navigate. Bob Hope Airport consistently logs over 2.5 million annual passenger boardings, making it a significant domestic hub in Southern California. For a complete list of important California airports, visit the California airports overview.
Airports Serving Northern California
Northern California is home to essential airports that connect the region to other parts of the country and the world. These airports serve commercial, general aviation, and regional flights and provide various services to travelers, businesses, and local communities.
Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport
Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport, located in Santa Rosa, is the main airport for Sonoma County. The airport is named after the creator of Peanuts, Charles M. Schulz, who lived there. This airport handles both commercial passenger flights and general aviation.
Flights from this airport connect travelers to large hubs like Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle, and Phoenix. Airlines such as Alaska, American, and United offer regular service.
Amenities include on-site car rentals, convenient parking lots, and a small selection of restaurants and shops. The airport is known for being easy to navigate, with shorter lines and quick security checks. Wine lovers often use this airport because it is close to many of Northern California’s vineyards and wineries.
Sacramento Executive Airport
Sacramento Executive Airport is located just a few miles south of downtown Sacramento. Unlike Sacramento International, this airport focuses on general aviation, charter flights, private aircraft, and corporate jet traffic. It does not offer scheduled commercial airline service.
The airport is popular for its convenience and proximity to downtown and state government offices. Pilots and business travelers choose it for easy access to city events. Several fixed-base operators (FBOs) are on the property, providing fueling, hangar space, and aircraft maintenance.
Training flights and smaller aircraft operations are common, and the airport hosts local aviation events and air shows. With about 400 acres of land and three runways, Sacramento Executive sees many takeoffs and landings each year.
Oakland International Airport
Oakland International Airport (OAK) is a major San Francisco Bay Area airport. It is about ten miles south of downtown Oakland and serves international and domestic routes. Passengers use OAK as an alternative to the busy San Francisco airport.
Oakland International has two main terminals and offers services such as fast baggage handling, multiple parking options, and ground transportation, including BART rail access. Major airlines at OAK include Southwest, Alaska, Spirit, and Delta.
The airport is known for its reliable on-time performance and lower delays than nearby airports. OAK also serves as a hub for cargo carriers, handling large shipments for businesses in Northern California. Travelers can find direct flights to cities across the United States and Mexico, making it a key regional gateway.
Airports Serving Southern California
Southern California has several airports focusing on different needs, from private aviation and business travel to military use and cargo operations. Each airport in the region plays a special role and offers unique services tailored to the area’s demands.
Van Nuys Airport
Van Nuys Airport is located in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the world. This airport does not serve commercial airlines. Instead, it focuses on private, charter, and business jets.
Many celebrities, politicians, and business leaders use Van Nuys for its privacy. The airport features two runways and operates 24 hours a day. On-site services include fueling, aircraft maintenance, and several fixed-base operators (FBOs).
Van Nuys also supports medical flights, flight schools, and law enforcement helicopters. The airport’s proximity to Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles makes it a popular choice for quick travel. Stats from the Los Angeles area airport list show significant traffic here, even without commercial airlines.
Brown Field Municipal Airport
Brown Field Municipal Airport is in southern San Diego, near the U.S.-Mexico border. The city of San Diego operates it, and it mainly serves general aviation.
Brown Field has a long runway, making it suitable for various aircraft, including small private planes and larger business jets. The airport was once a military base and still has a control tower, which helps with safe and efficient air traffic management.
The airport is used for flight training, aircraft maintenance, and sometimes as an overflow spot for busy nearby airports. Its location supports cross-border travel and is convenient for pilots flying to and from Mexico. The facility offers hangars, tie-downs, and fuel services to meet the needs of different aviation users.
Southern California Logistics Airport
Southern California Logistics Airport is located in Victorville, San Bernardino County. It was built on the former George Air Force Base site and focuses on large-scale cargo, aircraft maintenance, and industrial aviation services.
The airport has long runways and large ramps allowing heavy cargo jets and aircraft storage. Many airlines store or service planes here during slow travel periods. Major aerospace companies use the airport for final assembly, heavy maintenance, and testing.
Along with freight flights, the airport provides space for distribution centers, manufacturing businesses, and testing facilities. Southern California Logistics Airport’s location in the High Desert gives it quick freeway and rail connections, making it a key hub for logistics and industry in the region. More details can be found on the California airport map and list.
Mountain, Desert, and Coastal Airports
California has airports in different environments, including deserts, high mountain towns, and lakeside regions. Because of their locations, some of these airports offer exceptional amenities or face unique weather challenges.
Palm Springs International Airport
Palm Springs International Airport is in the Sonoran Desert and serves Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. It is known for its open-air terminal design, which is uncommon in most airports.
Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures often above 100°F, but the winter season is popular with tourists. Palm Springs International handles flights to major cities, including direct routes to San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago. It is a focus for seasonal flights, especially for vacationers escaping colder climates.
Travelers use this airport to access golf resorts, music festivals, and desert recreation. There are dining and shopping options on-site, and it is about 2 miles from downtown Palm Springs. For more about regional airports in desert regions, check the list of airports in California.
Truckee Tahoe Airport
Truckee Tahoe Airport is 5,900 feet above sea level in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Truckee. This public airport is close to winter ski resorts and summer lakeside town activities.
The geography brings high winds, snow, and tricky flight conditions, especially during winter storms. Private planes and charter flights are common, but this airport has no scheduled commercial airline service. Many travelers flying into Truckee Tahoe Airport are heading to Lake Tahoe, and the airport offers services for general aviation, including aircraft hangars and community rooms.
The airport also focuses on environmental care, with measures to limit noise and reduce its impact on the surrounding forest and residential neighborhoods.
Lake Tahoe Airport
Lake Tahoe Airport is located in South Lake Tahoe. It is at an elevation of about 6,264 feet, which often brings unpredictable mountain weather.
Lake Tahoe Airport once supported regular commercial flights, but today, it is used for private and general aviation. Pilots use the airport as a gateway to Lake Tahoe’s ski slopes, summer recreation, and the Sierra Nevada. Emergency and firefighting aircraft also use this airport during wildfire season.
The terminal has basic amenities, and visitors can rent cars. The nearby mountain scenery is a major draw for flyers and pilots who want quick access to Lake Tahoe’s south shore. The airport’s location can be reviewed in detail in the California airport directory.
Airport Codes and Identification
California airports each have unique codes and follow specific naming practices. Knowing these helps travelers and airline staff find the right airport and avoid confusion.
IATA and ICAO Codes
Airports in California are identified using two central code systems: IATA and ICAO. The IATA code is a three-letter code often seen on tickets and baggage tags. For example, Los Angeles International Airport uses the code LAX, and San Francisco International Airport is recognized as SFO.
The ICAO code is longer, uses four letters, and is mainly used by pilots, airlines, and air traffic control. For United States airports, ICAO codes usually start with a “K.” For example, LAX has the ICAO code KLAX, and SFO is KSFO.
This system helps avoid mistakes between places with similar names. For a complete overview, check out this online airport code table for California, which lists many codes and cities.
Common Airport Naming Conventions
California airport names often reflect their city, region, or notable people. Large airports, like San Diego International Airport or Sacramento International Airport, are usually named after their city. Some have names honoring public figures, such as Bob Hope Airport in Burbank.
Smaller regional airports tend to include the county or region. Examples include Monterey Regional Airport and Santa Barbara Municipal Airport. This naming pattern helps travelers quickly recognize the location or community an airport serves.
Visit this comprehensive California airport directory for a complete list of airport names and codes. It is helpful for planning trips and understanding travel routes.
Infrastructure and Community Impact
California’s airports play a vital role in transportation and support regional economies. Facilities such as runways, terminals, and ground access affect each field’s function and the surrounding community. Investments in upgrades and redevelopment shape job growth and accessibility in different locations.
Runway Length and Facilities
Runway length is a key factor for airport operations. Larger airports like Los Angeles International manage multiple long runways, often at least 12,000 feet, to handle international flights and cargo traffic. Smaller fields, such as those in rural areas, may only have runways around 4,000 to 6,000 feet, limiting the size and type of aircraft they can accommodate.
Facilities include passenger terminals, hangars, cargo terminals, and maintenance buildings. Investments have recently increased, with over 219 million dollars in funding distributed to upgrade airfields across the state. Many airports also add electric vehicle charging, improved lighting, and upgraded baggage handling systems.
Table: Example Runway Lengths
| Airport | Runway Length | Field Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAX | 12,091 ft | International | Los Angeles |
| San Luis Obispo | 6,100 ft | Regional | Central Coast |
| Merced Regional | 5,914 ft | Regional | Central Valley |
| Big Bear City | 5,850 ft | Local | San Bernardino |
Economic and Regional Development
Airports are major drivers for job creation and local investment. Large airports support thousands of employees in passenger services, air cargo, shops, and ground transportation. Even small airports can help create jobs by supporting flight schools, private aviation, and small businesses. For example, McClellan-Palomar Airport supports over 2,500 jobs and more than $460 million in local economic activity.
Many fields connect remote areas to larger cities, making it easier for businesses to trade and transport goods. Upgraded infrastructure attracts new airlines and freight carriers, which means more jobs and higher regional tax revenue.
Growth in airport facilities often leads to new hotels, restaurants, and car rental businesses in the surrounding community. This development allows for more economic opportunities and improved travel options for residents and visitors.
Community Relations and Accessibility
Community relations are essential for airports across California. Noise from jet engines, increased road traffic, and emissions are common concerns for people near major airports. Airports use sound barriers, restricted hours, and modern low-emission taxis and buses to lower the impact on neighbors.
Efforts to improve accessibility include adding public transit connections, building pedestrian walkways, and providing shuttle and bus options. Disabled access remains a priority, with elevators, ramps, and services provided at most airports for the visually impaired and the deaf.
Projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act aim to improve airport terminals, roadways, and connections that link airports to local neighborhoods and business districts. These upgrades help make all airports in California, whether large or small, more accessible for every community member.
Frequently Asked Questions
California features several important airports serving both domestic and international travelers. Airports like LAX and SFO are busy hubs, while others offer regional and cost-friendly travel options.
What are the major international airports located in California?
The main international airports in California are Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), San Diego International Airport (SAN), San Jose International Airport (SJC), and Sacramento International Airport (SMF).
Each airport provides flights to global destinations and is a key entry point for travelers from abroad.
How many airports are operational within the state of California?
California has over 140 public-use airports, including large international, regional, and smaller general aviation airports. Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Sacramento have multiple airports serving millions annually.
Which airport is the most cost-effective to use when flying to California?
Flights into and out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) often have some of the lowest fares due to high competition and many airlines operating there. Other airports, like Oakland International, can offer budget-friendly options depending on the route.
Where should one fly into when visiting Disneyland in California?
For travelers visiting Disneyland, the closest airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County. It is about 14 miles from Disneyland. Other nearby airports include Long Beach Airport (LGB) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Can you provide a map of the airports located throughout California?
Airport authority websites or travel resources offer maps showing airport locations. For example, the San Diego International Airport website offers maps and information about airport services and locations across the state.
Which California airport is preferred by Delta Air Lines for domestic and international flights?
Delta Air Lines mainly uses Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as its central hub for domestic and international flights in California. The airline also operates flights from other major airports, but LAX offers the most options for Delta travelers.
