Southwest Airlines is coming to Bellingham

People north of Seattle face a dilemma: drive further or brave going through the city.
Southwest Airlines jet on approach
Southwest Airlines announces move into Bellingham, WA for 2021. Photo credit gettyimages // Scott Olson

Anyone in the north end that has flown out of Paine Field knows what an easy and superior location it is versus the massiveness and trouble of SEATAC. Now, Southwest Airlines, who at one time kicked around flights from PAE, will take the show further up I-5 to Bellingham.

Starting in the second half of 2021, you'll be able to catch a flight out of Bellingham International Airport to destination not yet announced. In a press release, they said:
"located in northern Washington, between the Cascade Mountains and the Salish Sea—will be a great gateway for anyone excited about exploring the Pacific Northwest, including those headed to the San Juan Islands, Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, or North Cascades National Park. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, Bellingham is also a great place to embark on a scenic train journey to Vancouver, B.C. or ferry to Victoria, B.C.—watch out for orcas on your way! Bellingham flights will begin in the second half of 2021. Check back soon for more information about schedules and destinations!"

They also added Eugene, Oregon, on a similar timeline and now I want to go to Crater Lake National Park with a quick jump from Bellingham. Please let that be an option.

Once up and running, we'll have to make the decision of driving an hour north from the Everett area to rolling the dice on the potential hell commute south through Seattle. Good luck.

Featured Image Photo Credit: gettyimages // Scott Olson