How to Get to Portland. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Portland

Major Airports & Routes

Portland International Jetport (PWM) serves as the main airport for the greater Portland area, located about 3 miles (5 km) southwest of downtown. It offers a convenient experience due to its smaller size. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in Massachusetts is a major international gateway, about a two-hour drive or train ride south.

Airlines & Connections

Airlines at PWM include American, Delta, Southwest, United, Frontier, Breeze, and JetBlue.
Direct flights from PWM go to major East Coast hubs (NYC, DC, Boston) and some Midwest cities (Chicago).
Most international travelers fly into larger U.S. Hubs like BOS or JFK, then connect to PWM or use ground transport.

Seasonal Flight Patterns

Flight frequency to PWM generally increases during summer (June-August) and the fall foliage season (October). Prices are also at their highest during these periods due to demand. It is wise to book flights several months in advance if traveling during these times.

Pricing & Availability

Peak Season (Summer & Fall Foliage): Highest prices, increased frequency.
Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Early Fall): May, early June, and September offer a good balance of weather and slightly lower prices.
Low Season (Winter): Lower prices, fewer direct routes, excluding holiday periods.

Car Rental

All major car rental companies have counters at PWM. Find deals via DiscoverCars.com.

Dining Options

Several restaurants and cafes at PWM offer pre-flight meals or snacks, including local Maine fare.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, with charging stations in various areas.

Airport Transfers

From Portland International Jetport PWM

Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Approx. $15-$25 to downtown Portland, 10-15 minutes.
Public Bus: Greater Portland METRO Route 5 (Jetport LINK) connects to downtown's Elm Street Pulse. Affordable fares.
Hotel Shuttles: Many downtown hotels offer complimentary shuttles.
Car Rental: Convenient for exploring beyond Portland.

From Boston Logan International Airport BOS

Bus (Dollar Flight Club for flights, or Skyscanner for connections): Concord Coach Lines offers frequent direct service to Portland Transportation Center, ~2h 15m.
Train: Amtrak Downeaster from Boston's North Station to Portland Transportation Center, ~2.5 hours.
Rental Car: Driving to Portland takes ~2 hours, useful for broader New England exploration.
Consider Skyscanner for flight connections if flying into BOS.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Amtrak Downeaster offers daily connections between Brunswick, Maine, and Boston's North Station. Portland is a stop. Reservations are highly advisable during peak seasons.

Long-Distance Bus

Concord Coach Lines offers frequent, reliable service connecting Portland to Boston and other Maine/New Hampshire destinations. Greyhound provides broader national connections from the Portland Transportation Center.

Self-Driving

Portland is accessible via I-95. A valid driver's license is needed; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for international visitors if your license is not in English. Be aware of varying road conditions by season.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Portland is a popular port of call for cruise ships, typically from May-October. Cruise ships dock at the Ocean Terminal, conveniently located in the Old Port area. This provides direct walking access to downtown attractions, shops, and restaurants. Disembarking passengers can easily explore on foot or via local tours.

Casco Bay Lines

This public ferry service operates year-round from its terminal on Commercial Street in the Old Port.
It mainly serves as transportation to the islands of Casco Bay (e.g., Peaks Island, Great Diamond Island, Chebeague Island).
These ferries also offer scenic cruises of the bay. No international car ferry services connect Portland to other countries.

River Transport & Procedures

No significant river transportation services exist for arrival into Portland; the Fore River is mainly for commercial and recreational boats. For international cruise ship arrivals, standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures apply upon disembarkation.

Immigration & Connections

Passengers must present passports and may undergo inspection by CBP officers, similar to airport arrivals.
The Ocean Terminal (Cruise Port) is within easy walking distance of downtown Portland and many attractions.
Taxis and ride-shares are readily available at the port for onward travel.

Departure Timing - Air

For PWM, arrive 90 minutes to 2 hours before domestic flights. 2-3 hours for international connections.

Departure Timing - Land

For Amtrak, arrive 30-45 minutes before departure. For buses, 30 minutes. Allow time for rental car return.

Exit Fees

No specific departure taxes are levied for leaving the U.S. From Portland; taxes are typically in your ticket price.

Safety Tips for Departure

During peak travel times (holidays, summer weekends), add extra time to your airport arrival.
PWM's security lines are generally efficient, but prepare for standard TSA procedures.
If returning a rental car, factor in time for refueling and airport shuttle services.

For train/bus departures, try to arrive 30-45 minutes before to check in and load luggage.
Avoid rushing, as this may lead to forgotten items or missed connections.
Check your airline's specific recommendations for airport arrival times.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Departure Tasks

Ensure a smooth exit from Portland with these final checks before heading to your departure point.

Final Checks

Confirm all travel documents (passport, tickets, ID) are readily accessible.
Double-check reservation times for flights, trains, or buses.
Verify hotel check-out times and procedures.

Luggage & Valuables

Pack efficiently and securely. Separate items needed for immediate access.

Packing Reminders

Weigh luggage to avoid airline excess baggage fees.
Secure all bags with locks.
Keep valuables, medications, and essential electronics in your carry-on.

Final Recommendation

Consider local traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, when planning your journey to the airport or station.

How to Get to Portland