Which Seattle Airport is Closest to Vancouver, Canada: A Comprehensive Guide

Seattle and Vancouver, BC, are two major cities situated just a few hundred miles apart. This article aims to provide a detailed guide on which Seattle airport is closest to Vancouver, Canada, to help travelers plan their journeys more efficiently. Whether you're interested in commercial flights or have other travel needs, this information will help you make an informed decision.

Distance Between Seattle and Vancouver, BC Airports

The distance between Seattle and Vancouver, BC, is approximately:

127 miles / 205 kilometers / 110 nautical miles between the airports 152 miles / 245 kilometers by driving distance with an estimated driving time of 3 hours and 10 minutes Estimated flight time between the two airports is 44 minutes

Seattle Airports to Vancouver, Canada

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Origin: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Location: Seattle, WA, United States
Coordinates: 47°26'56deg;

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Destination: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Location: Richmond, BC, Canada
Coordinates: 49°11'38deg;

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the primary commercial airport serving Seattle and is well-connected to destinations within North America, including Vancouver, Canada. This airport offers a wide range of commercial flights and serves as a major hub for travelers.

Bellingham International Airport (BLM)

If you're looking for an alternative closer to the Washington border, Bellingham International Airport (BLM) is a good option. It is situated in Bellingham, WA, and offers a surprising number of flights despite the city not being a large metropolis. This airport can be more convenient for travelers looking to avoid the congestion of Seattle.

Paine Field (PAE)

Paine Field in Everett, WA, is a new airport that has recently expanded and started offering limited commercial flights. While it is becoming more popular and convenient, the majority of flights heading to Canada may still require travelers to travel through Seattle.

From south to north:

SeaTac (SEA): is Seattle's main passenger airport, located south of the city near the town of Burien. Boeing Field: is located almost downtown and is heavily used by Boeing and privately owned aircraft. There are no commercial flights operated from this airport. Paine Field (PAE) is north of Seattle in Everett and offers limited commercial service. It is expected to become more popular in the future. Bellingham International Airport (BLM) is located up next to the border and closest to Vancouver, making it a viable option for travelers looking for a shorter journey.

Commercial and Passenger Airports

If you're looking for commercial flights, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the most convenient and widely used option. However, if you prioritize proximity or prefer a smaller, less congested environment, Bellingham International Airport (BLM) might be a good choice. For those interested in exploring more experiences beyond the standard commercial airport, Paine Field (PAE) offers a unique flying experience.

Conclusion

When choosing an airport to fly from Seattle to Vancouver, Canada, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Whether you prefer a wide range of commercial flights, a more localized experience, or a new and expanding airport, there is an option that suits your travel requirements. For commercial flights, SeaTac remains the primary choice, but Bellingham and Paine Field offer viable alternatives for different travel scenarios.