Bradford Regional Airport (BFD) Guide: Flights, Airlines & Travel Tips

When you are flying in or out of northwestern Pennsylvania, you should consider a small yet highly convenient airport, which is the Bradford Regional Airport (BFD). This is a regional airport that is located just south of Bradford city and is crucial in linking rural areas to major U.S. hubs.

This search engine optimized guide will tell you all about Bradford Regional Airport, including its history and facilities, airlines, destinations, and travel tips.

Where Is Bradford Regional Airport?

The Bradford Regional Airport is located approximately 11 miles south of Bradford, Pennsylvania, in Lafayette Township, McKean County. It covers not only the north of Pennsylvania but also the surrounding regions in western New York, such as the city of Olean.

The Bradford Regional Airport Authority owns and manages the airport and is assisted by the Essential Air Service (EAS) program of the U.S. government- commercial flights are regular even in less-populated areas.

Airport Overview and Classification

Based on the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (2021-2025), the Bradford Regional Airport is a non-primary commercial service airport. This implies that it manages between 2,500 and 10,000 passengers every year. Although it is smaller, BFD is an important part of regional connectivity and accessibility.

History of Bradford Regional Airport

The Bradford Regional Airport has a long history of aviation that can be traced back to the middle of the 20th century.

• 1948: United Airlines started the first scheduled flights with the Douglas DC-3.

• 1950s-1970s: Allegheny Airlines increased flights between Bradford and other major cities such as Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and Newark.

• 1970s-1990s: Switch to commuter services under Allegheny Commuter and then US Airways and its regional affiliates.

• 2000s: and further on: The airport became oriented to essential air service-based operations.

Aircraft such as the Convair 580, DC-9, and Beechcraft 1900 were used over the decades to keep people connected.

Airlines and Destinations

At the moment, Southern Airways Express operates scheduled passenger services from Bradford Regional Airport.

Direct Flights from BFD:

• Pittsburgh International Airport

• Washington Dulles International Airport

Travelers can take advantage of two daily flights to these two airports. This provides easy access to wider domestic and international air travel.

Passenger Traffic & Popular Routes (2025)

Here are the top routes from Bradford Regional Airport:

These figures underscore the significance of this airport as a feeder airport to other important aviation hubs.

Airport Facilities

While Bradford Regional Airport is a relatively smaller airport, it provides vital facilities to make air travel convenient and comfortable.

Key Features:

• Total Area: 1,015 acres

• Elevation: 2,143 ft above sea level

• Runways:

• Runway 14/32: 6,307 ft (asphalt)

• Runway 5/23: 4,499 ft (asphalt)

Aircraft Activity:

• Approximately 2,987 aircraft operations per year

• An average of 8 aircraft operations daily

• Composition:

• 80% commercial

• 14% general aviation

• 4% air taxi

• 2% military

In 2022, there were 15 based aircraft, and they were all single-engine planes.

Military Presence

One of the interesting aspects of BFD is that there is a National Guard Armory on site, giving this airport an added level of significance.

Why Choose Bradford Regional Airport?

If you are flying in or out of the region, there are many benefits to flying out of BFD:

1. Less Crowded: Avoid long security lines and crowded airports.
2. Easy Access: Located in northern Pennsylvania and western New York.
3. Quick Connections: Direct flights to major airports such as Pittsburgh and Washington Dulles.
4. Time-Saving: Faster check-in, boarding, and baggage claim.

Final Thoughts

While Bradford Regional Airport may not be as large as some of the world’s biggest airports, it certainly plays an important role in the region. With reliable service from Southern Airways Express and convenient access to larger airports, Bradford Regional Airport is a convenient and efficient way to travel in northwestern Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas in New York.

If you are flying out for business or for pleasure, Bradford Regional Airport provides a hassle-free experience that larger airports just can’t match.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What airlines serve Bradford Regional Airport?

At this time, Southern Airways Express is the only airline providing passenger service.

2. What routes are available from BFD?

Direct service is available to Pittsburgh and Washington Dulles, with connections to many other places.

3. Is Bradford Regional Airport a busy airport?

No, it is a quiet airport, perfect for a hassle-free travel experience.

4. How far is BFD from Bradford, PA?

It is 11 miles (18 km) south of Bradford. Which is in a very short distance if you plan to drive.

5. Does Bradford Regional Airport serve military operations?

Yes, Bradford Regional Airport serves military operations, as a National Guard Armory is located there.