Route 3 bus stops outside the Main Terminal at BLI.
Whatcom Transportation Authority Route 3 runs between Bellingham International Airport’s Main Terminal and downtown Bellingham, with stops along Northwest Avenue and W Holly Street. The stop sits just outside the terminal near the arrivals area, so you don’t need to cross a highway or walk far with bags.
Route 3 usually runs every 30–60 minutes during daytime hours, with reduced frequency in the evenings and on weekends, and standard WTA fares apply across the whole line. As of recent WTA pricing, a single adult ride is typically under $2, and transfers work the same as on other WTA routes.
The ride from BLI to downtown Bellingham on Route 3 takes roughly 20–30 minutes, depending on time of day and traffic along Airport Drive and Northwest Avenue. If you’re catching a regional train or continuing by bus, downtown stops put you within a short walk of other local and intercity connections.
Route 3 accepts cash on board, and WTA also supports mobile payment options through its app, which can cut down on fumbling for exact change at the airport stop. Drivers do not sell passes beyond the standard fare, so pick up any longer-term passes at WTA offices or retail outlets in town before your return trip from BLI.
- Stop location: Curbside near BLI Main Terminal arrivals
- Typical frequency: Every 30–60 minutes (reduced late evenings)
- Typical fare: Around $2 per adult, one way
- Travel time to downtown: About 20–30 minutes
- Operator: Whatcom Transportation Authority Route 3
Last tip: check the WTA Route 3 schedule before you land and aim for a bus that leaves at least 20 minutes after your scheduled arrival, especially if you’re landing on an Allegiant or Alaska flight that tends to offload a full 737 at once.