Bellefonte, Pennsylvania: Your Local Airport Guide
Located in the heart of Centre County, Bellefonte is a historic borough of roughly 6,100 residents, known for its Victorian architecture, the Centre County Courthouse, and its proximity to Penn State University in State College. Travelers who need a runway close to the town have two practical choices: the public‑use Bellefonte Airport (FAA identifier 7E5) for general‑aviation traffic, and the commercial University Park Airport (IATA SCE) in State College, which handles scheduled airline service. Both facilities sit within a ten‑mile radius, making Bellefonte one of the most aviation‑friendly small towns in central Pennsylvania.
The primary search phrase "airport in Bellefonte" points directly to Bellefonte Airport, a modest airfield that supports private pilots, flight‑training schools, and occasional air‑taxi operations. Because the airport is only two miles north of the downtown historic district, the phrase "Bellefonte airport near me" often returns this field along with the larger University Park Airport, which is the "closest airport to Bellefonte" for commercial flights.
Bellefonte Airport Locations: Where the Runway Meets the Borough
Bellefonte Airport sits at 74 Airport Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823, just off Pennsylvania State Route 550 and a short turn from U.S. Route 322. The field’s geographic coordinates are 40.8862° N, 77.7825° W, and it lies approximately 3.2 miles (5 km) north‑northeast of the Centre County Courthouse, the centerpiece of the Bellefonte Historic District. The airport occupies 71 acres and features a single asphalt runway (11/29) that is 3,598 feet long and 75 feet wide, suitable for single‑engine pistons, light twins, and a handful of small business jets.
In addition to the primary field, the "airport near Bellefonte Pennsylvania" search also highlights two supplemental facilities that pilots often use for fuel or overflow parking:
- University Park Airport (SCE) – Located 10 miles southeast in State College, this 1,600‑acre airport offers two runways, a full‑service terminal, and rental‑car agencies. It is the preferred gateway for passengers flying Delta, United, and American.
- Penns Cave Airport (N74) – About 15 miles west of Bellefonte, this private airstrip serves sky‑diving clubs and offers limited fuel services.
All three airports are reachable within a 20‑minute drive, giving pilots a choice based on aircraft type, fuel needs, and scheduled‑flight requirements.
Closest Airport to the Bellefonte Downtown Core
The 3‑mile drive from downtown Bellefonte to the Bellefonte Airport typically takes 7‑10 minutes via Airport Road. The route passes the Bellefonte Area High School and the historic Bellefonte Theatre, making it easy for visitors to spot local landmarks while navigating to the runway.
How to Reach Airport in Bellefonte: Driving, Public Transit, and Ride‑Share Options
Driving is the most common method for both locals and visitors. From the centre of town, follow Main Street west to US‑322, turn north onto PA‑550, and then take the first left onto Airport Road. The total distance is 3.2 miles and the drive is generally traffic‑free, even during rush hour.
If you need to travel to the commercial University Park Airport, continue east on US‑322 for 6 miles, then merge onto PA‑26 South toward State College. The highway segment is well‑signed, and the entire trip averages 15‑20 minutes depending on weather.
Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) operates Route 30, which runs between the Bellefonte bus depot and the State College Transit Center. From there, a dedicated University Park Airport shuttle departs every hour, providing a cost‑effective link for passengers without a car.
Ride‑share services such as Uber and Lyft operate throughout Centre County. A typical UberX fare from downtown Bellefonte to University Park Airport is $18‑$22, while a trip to the local Bellefonte Airport usually costs $8‑$10.
Airport Near the Nittany Mall Neighborhood
The Nittany Mall area, located just south of State College, is only 8 miles from Bellefonte Airport. Travelers can reach the field via PA‑26 South, then a quick left onto Airport Road, making it a convenient drop‑off point for private‑flight guests attending events at the nearby Centre County Convention Center.
Airport Services in Bellefonte: Fuel, Hangars, Flight Training, and More
Despite its modest size, Bellefonte Airport offers a full suite of general‑aviation services. The fuel farm provides 100LL Avgas around the clock, and a seasonal supply of Jet A is available for turboprop operators during the summer months. Tie‑down spaces are free for transient aircraft, while hangar rentals range from $250 to $500 per month, depending on size.
Flight training is anchored by Centre County Aviation, a flight school that offers private pilot, instrument, and commercial certifications. Their fleet includes a Cessna 172 Skyhawk, a Piper PA‑28 Cherokee, and a Diamond DA‑40, all maintained on‑site by Bellefonte Aviation Services, a certified aircraft repair shop.
For pilots needing ground support, the airport office is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office desk is located adjacent to the terminal building, directly across from the Bellefonte Historical & Cultural Association museum. The office phone is (814) 452‑1100, and inquiries can also be sent to info@bellefonteairport.com.
Airport Bellefonte Pennsylvania: Contact and Office Hours
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 08:00 – 17:00 EST (closed on weekends and holidays).
Phone: (814) 452‑1100
Email: info@bellefonteairport.com
Address: 74 Airport Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823
Neighborhoods and Landmarks Around the Airport: A Hyper‑Local Perspective
The Bellefonte Airport is nestled between two of the borough’s most recognizable neighborhoods. To the east lies the “Old Town” historic district, where the 1835 Centre County Courthouse and the iconic Bellefonte Theatre create a picturesque skyline. To the west, the “College View” area features the Bellefonte Area High School and the Penn State Nittany Athletic Complex, both within a three‑mile radius of the runway.
Travelers often ask "where is the airport in Bellefonte relative to the Bellefonte Farmers Market?" The market sits on Main Street, just a 5‑minute walk south of the airport’s main entrance. Likewise, the "airport office near the Bellefonte Historical & Cultural Association" is literally across the street, allowing visitors to combine a cultural afternoon with a quick flight‑check.
For emergency services, the Centre County EMS station is located 1.2 miles south of the airport, ensuring rapid response times for any on‑field incident. The airport also participates in the Centre County Disaster Preparedness Plan, coordinating with local police and fire departments.
Whether you are a private pilot seeking a convenient tie‑down, a flight‑student looking for a reputable school, or a traveler needing the "closest airport to Bellefonte" for a commercial connection, the combination of Bellefonte Airport and University Park Airport delivers a comprehensive aviation ecosystem that supports both leisure and business needs.
International Airports
An international airport is a vital component of any major metropolitan area. It connects domestic and international travelers, providing them with a means to connect to the rest of the world.
An international airport is a large airport that is equipped to handle both domestic and international flights. It also has a significant economic impact on the local community.
These major Pennsylvania Airports generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions of dollars to the local economy through tourism and other related industries.
A large international airport also offers a variety of amenities for travelers. These can include shopping centers, dining options, lounges, and other services such as currency exchange and luggage storage.
Private Airports
Private airports, also known as general aviation airports, are airports that are not open to commercial airlines and are used primarily by private aircraft.
One of the main benefits of a private airport is the exclusivity and privacy it offers.
These airports are often used by high-profile individuals, such as celebrities and business executives, who value their privacy and want to avoid the crowds and security lines of commercial airports.
Private airports also offer more flexibility and convenience for aircraft owners. They can also be used for training pilots and hosting aviation events.
There are 0 Private Airport in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania.
Regional Airports
Regional airports are smaller airports that serve a rural geographic region, such as a smaller city or county with a population of less than 100,000.
Small airports mostly offer flights within the same country, but some may offer flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of regional airports is their convenience. They also tend to have shorter security lines and fewer crowds, making the overall travel experience more enjoyable.
There are 0 Regional Airport in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania.
Municipal Airports
Municipal airports which are also called "public airports" are owned and run by local governments like cities and counties.
Most of the time, they are smaller airports that serve a certain area and have mostly domestic flights, but some may also have flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of municipal airports is their accessibility. They are often located in or near major cities, making them a convenient option for travelers.
Municipal airports provide a vital link for businesses in the region, allowing them to easily connect to other parts of the country.
There are 0 Municipal Airport in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania.
Local Airports
There are 2 Local Airport in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania.
Bellefonte Airport
Ziggys Airport - 03Ps
Airports near Bellefonte
Frequently Asked Questions — Bellefonte Airport Services
What is the address and phone number of the airport in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania?
The Bellefonte Airport is located at 74 Airport Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823. The main office can be reached at (814) 452‑1100, and email inquiries are accepted at info@bellefonteairport.com.
How far is the closest commercial airport from Bellefonte, and what transportation options are available?
The nearest commercial airport is University Park Airport (IATA SCE) in State College, approximately 10 miles southeast of Bellefonte. Travelers can drive via US‑322 and PA‑26 (15‑20 minutes), use the Centre Area Transportation Authority Route 30 to the State College Transit Center followed by the airport shuttle, or book an Uber/Lyft ride for a fee of $18‑$22.
What are the office hours for the Bellefonte airport office and where can I find the airport near the Bellefonte Historical & Cultural Association?
The airport office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. EST. The office building sits directly across from the Bellefonte Historical & Cultural Association museum on Airport Road, making it easy to combine a visit to the museum with airport services.
Is there fuel service at the Bellefonte airport for private pilots, and what types of fuel are available?
Yes. Bellefonte Airport offers 24‑hour self‑serve 100LL Avgas and a seasonal Jet A supply for turboprop aircraft. The fuel farm is located on the south side of the runway near the tie‑down area, and payment can be made by credit card or fuel‑card.
Where can I park or arrange rental cars at the airport nearest to Bellefonte, especially near the Nittany Mall neighborhood?
Parking for short‑term visits is free in the paved lot adjacent to the terminal at University Park Airport, which is the primary rental‑car hub for the region. Major agencies such as Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise operate out of the airport’s rental‑car center, located just 0.3 miles from the terminal. The rental‑car center is approximately 8 miles from the Nittany Mall neighborhood, reachable via PA‑26 South.