Portland's Airport Scenario: Two Hubs, One City

Portland, Oregon, has more than one airport. The city's primary airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), which is located 12 miles from the city centre. Portland also has two general aviation airports, including Troutdale Airport, which is used for fixed-wing flight training, scenic tours and recreational flying.

Portland International Airport (PDX) is the largest airport in Oregon

PDX is a joint civil-military airport, with the Oregon Air National Guard basing its F-15 Eagle operations on the southwest portion of the airport grounds. The airport covers 3,000 acres (1,214 ha) of land and has direct flights to cities throughout the United States and several other countries, including Canada, Mexico, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Iceland. It is a hub for Alaska Airlines and offers convenient ground transportation options, including the MAX Red Line light rail, which connects the airport to downtown Portland and Beaverton.

The history of Portland's first airport, Swan Island Municipal Airport, dates back to the late 1920s. However, by the mid-1930s, it became apparent that a larger and more modern airport was needed. The current site of PDX was purchased in 1936, and construction began with the goal of creating a "super airport." Despite challenges posed by frequent flooding from the nearby Columbia River, the airport became operational by 1941.

PDX has undergone significant expansions and renovations over the years, including the addition of new terminals, concourses, and runways. The airport has been recognised as one of the best airports in the United States by Travel + Leisure's survey, with travellers praising its convenience, amenities, local food and drink options, tax-free shopping, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

In summary, Portland International Airport (PDX) is not just the largest airport in Oregon but also a vital transportation hub for the region, offering a range of services and conveniences for travellers.

PDX is 12 miles from Portland's city centre

Portland International Airport (PDX) is located 12 miles from Portland's city centre. The airport is within Portland's city limits, just south of the Columbia River in Multnomah County. It is accessible by road from exit 24 on Interstate 205.

PDX is the largest airport in the US state of Oregon, accounting for 90% of the state's passenger air travel and more than 95% of its air cargo. It is also Oregon's second busiest airport, serving as a hub for Alaska Airlines and offering direct flights to cities throughout the United States and several other countries, including Canada, Mexico, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Iceland.

The airport covers 3,000 acres of land and has five runways, with the first two constructed in 1941. The airport was initially known as the "Portland–Columbia Airport" to distinguish it from the Swan Island Airport, which was the first airport in Portland. The "super airport" had a terminal on the north side and five runways forming an asterisk.

PDX has been recognised as one of the best airports in the United States, with travellers praising its convenience, amenities, local food and drink options, tax-free shopping, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The airport also provides easy access to and from the city centre via the MAX Light Rail Red Line, which takes approximately 38 to 45 minutes.

Troutdale Airport is another airport in Portland

Portland International Airport is within the city limits, just south of the Columbia River in Multnomah County. It is easily accessible via the MAX Light Rail Red Line, which takes approximately 38 minutes from the airport to downtown Portland. The airport is also connected to the city centre by Interstate 205.

PDX offers travellers a unique experience with local food and drink, tax-free shopping, and complimentary Wi-Fi. It has been named the best airport in the United States in several surveys, including Travel + Leisure's survey in 2021 and every year from 2013 to 2019. The airport is also known for its superior guest experience and convenient light rail connection to the city.

In addition to Troutdale Airport and Portland International Airport, there are several other local airports near Portland. These include Portland-Hillsboro Airport, Aurora State Airport, Cascade Locks State Airport, and McMinnville Municipal Airport. Each of these airports serves a different purpose and caters to various types of aircraft and flights.

PDX has direct flights to several countries outside the US

Portland International Airport (PDX) is the largest airport in Oregon, accounting for 90% of the state's passenger air travel. It is located within Portland's city limits, just south of the Columbia River in Multnomah County. The airport covers 3,000 acres of land and offers direct flights to several countries outside the US.

PDX has direct flights to various international destinations, including several countries in Europe, Asia, and North America. In Europe, passengers can fly directly to Frankfurt, Germany, operated by Lufthansa. There are also direct flights to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and London, United Kingdom. Additionally, PDX offers direct flights to Reykjavik, Iceland, with seasonal flights available.

For travel to Asia, PDX provides direct flights to Tokyo, Japan, served by multiple airlines, including Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines. There are also direct flights available to Hong Kong. When travelling to North America, PDX offers direct flights to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, as well as several Mexican destinations, including Puerto Vallarta, San José del Cabo, and Mexico City.

PDX is a hub for Alaska Airlines and is served by 18 other airlines, including Delta, Southwest, and United. The airport has a variety of amenities, including local food carts, a microcinema showcasing films by Portland-based filmmakers, and unique shopping options. It is accessible by the MAX Red Line light rail, which connects the airport to downtown Portland and Beaverton.

PDX was voted the best airport in the US in 2021

Portland International Airport (PDX) was voted the best airport in the US in 2021. This is an impressive feat, especially considering the challenges posed by the pandemic, wildfires, and winter storms during that time. PDX employees were commended for their dedication and providing excellent customer service to travellers.

PDX's rise to the top spot may be attributed to several factors. Firstly, it offers a unique Portland experience, showcasing local favourites and regional treasures, such as Stumptown Coffee, Hopworks Urban Brewery, and Tillamook Cheese. The airport also has a mini Hollywood Theatre and a distinctive carpet design that has become iconic. PDX also adheres to a "`street pricing' policy, ensuring that airport businesses charge the same prices as their off-airport locations, making it affordable for travellers.

The airport's convenient location and accessibility are also noteworthy. The Airport MAX line, which opened in 2001, provides a direct connection to downtown Portland, making travel to and from the airport efficient and hassle-free. PDX is also constantly improving its facilities, with projects like the Concourse E addition and a new roof landing in 2022, ensuring that it remains a top-notch airport.

PDX's recognition as America's Best Airport Award by Travel + Leisure magazine is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its employees and their commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience.

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