The Group Travel Guide to Airports in & Around Erie, Pennsylvania

Whether you’re flying into Erie for business, a family reunion, or an event on the shores of Lake Erie, your group has options when it comes to airports. Erie International Airport (ERI) is the obvious choice—it’s only about 6 miles from downtown and offers a handful of daily flights via American Airlines and United. But if you’re coming from farther afield or need more flight flexibility, Cleveland Hopkins International (CLE), Buffalo Niagara International (BUF), and Pittsburgh International (PIT) are all within a two-hour drive.

No matter which airport you choose, you can count on Charter Bus Rental Erie to provide seamless, stress-free ground transportation for your group. We offer shuttle bus rentals to and from all of Erie’s airports, including private transfers for sports teams, school groups, corporate travelers and more. Call 814-960-6650 any time to get a quote!

Quick Answer:

Erie International Airport (ERI) is the most convenient option for most groups visiting Erie. It’s just 6 miles west of downtown and serves nonstop flights to Chicago and Charlotte with easy connections to hundreds of destinations. If ERI doesn’t fit your itinerary, Cleveland Hopkins (CLE), Buffalo Niagara (BUF), and Pittsburgh International (PIT) are all within a 90-120 minute drive. Charter Bus Rental Erie can provide door-to-door charter bus service between any of these airports and your hotel, venue, or final destination in Erie.

Erie International Airport (ERI)

Distance from Downtown Erie: ~6 miles (15 minutes)
Address: 4411 W 12th St, Erie, PA 16505

For most visitors, Erie International Airport is the best bet. Located right off PA-5 and only a 15-minute drive from downtown Erie, it’s easily accessible to all of Erie County’s top destinations. The airport is served by American Airlines and United, with daily nonstop flights to Chicago O’Hare and Charlotte Douglas. If your group is connecting from elsewhere, both hubs offer plenty of one-stop itineraries that will get you to Erie with minimal hassle.

Charter Bus Rental Erie provides curbside pickup and drop-off at the main terminal. Our minibuses and full-size coaches can stage in the commercial vehicle lane while your group collects luggage. If you’re arriving early or have a late flight out, ask about adding a quick sightseeing detour to Presque Isle State Park or the Erie Maritime Museum before heading to the airport.

While ERI is a small regional airport, it has everything you need for a comfortable layover. There’s a full-service bar and restaurant (The Landing), free WiFi throughout the terminal, and a gift shop selling snacks, drinks, and Erie souvenirs. If your group needs to kill time before a flight, relax in the seating area or book a conference room for a last-minute meeting.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)

Distance from Erie: ~110 miles (1 hour, 45 minutes)
Address: 5300 Riverside Dr, Cleveland, OH 44135

If Erie International’s limited flight schedule doesn’t work for your group, Cleveland Hopkins is the next closest major airport. Located less than two hours west of Erie via I-90, CLE offers nonstop service to dozens of cities across the U.S. and Canada on all major airlines. It’s especially convenient for groups traveling from the West Coast or Midwest who want to avoid multiple connections.

When you land at CLE, your charter bus from Charter Bus Rental Erie can meet you at the Ground Transportation Center, which is connected to baggage claim by a covered walkway. From there, it’s a straight shot up I-90 to Erie. Let your group stretch out and relax on board while we handle the drive—we can even arrange a quick stop for lunch or refreshments en route if needed.

CLE is a large international airport with plenty of amenities for groups. You’ll find a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops in each concourse, as well as newsstands, bookstores, and souvenir shops. If you have time to spare before your bus departs, consider grabbing a meal at Great Lakes Brewing Company or Bar Symon, both located post-security.

Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

Distance from Erie: ~105 miles (1 hour, 40 minutes)
Address: 4200 Genesee St, Buffalo, NY 14225

On the other side of Lake Erie, Buffalo Niagara International Airport is another viable alternative for groups flying into northwestern Pennsylvania. BUF is about 1 hour and 40 minutes from downtown Erie via I-90 and offers nonstop flights to over 30 destinations across the Northeast, Midwest, and South. Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, and American all have a strong presence here, making it easy to find affordable fares.

Your charter bus from Charter Bus Rental Erie can pick up your group directly outside baggage claim at the designated bus and limo lane. From there, it’s a scenic drive along the lake back to Erie. If you want to make the most of your time in western New York, ask about adding a detour to Niagara Falls—it’s only 25 minutes from the airport and makes for a great pre- or post-flight excursion.

BUF is a mid-sized airport with ample dining and shopping options. Grab a coffee at Tim Hortons, a sandwich at Anchor Bar (home of the original Buffalo wing), or browse the Made in America Store for local gifts and snacks. Free WiFi and charging stations are available throughout the terminal to keep your group connected.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Distance from Erie: ~130 miles (2 hours)
Address: 1000 Airport Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15231

While it’s farther than Cleveland or Buffalo, Pittsburgh International is still within reasonable driving distance of Erie for groups needing maximum flight flexibility. PIT is a hub for Southwest and offers nonstop service to over 60 cities, including several in Florida, Texas, and the West Coast. If your group is traveling from a city not served by ERI, CLE, or BUF, check PIT for direct flights.

At PIT, our charter buses can stage at the Commercial Vehicle Lane near Door 8 of the Landside Terminal. Once your group is loaded, it’s a straightforward two-hour drive up I-79 to Erie. Use the time on board to catch up on emails, hold a meeting using the bus’s WiFi and power outlets, or simply rest after your flight.

PIT has been consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the country for its amenities and passenger experience. Highlights include a large food court with local favorites like Primanti Bros. and Penn Brewery, a Kidsport play area, art installations, and a variety of shops ranging from high-end boutiques to travel essentials.

Private Shuttles for Any Size Group

No matter which airport you choose, Charter Bus Rental Erie can accommodate groups of any size with our fleet of vehicles. For small teams or families, a sprinter van rental or minibus is perfect for airport transfers. Larger groups, such as tour groups, wedding parties, or convention attendees, can ride together in a full-size charter bus with room for up to 56 passengers plus luggage. All our vehicles feature comfortable seats, climate control, and optional amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and entertainment systems to make your airport transfer as smooth as possible.

Book Your Erie Airport Shuttle Today

Flying in or out of Erie shouldn’t be stressful. With Charter Bus Rental Erie handling your airport ground transportation, your group can focus on the trip ahead instead of navigating traffic, coordinating carpools, or waiting for rideshares. We’ll get you to and from any airport in the region safely, comfortably, and on your schedule—whether you’re catching a flight at ERI or connecting through Cleveland, Buffalo, or Pittsburgh. Ready to get started? Call 814-960-6650 today for a free, no-obligation quote on your Erie airport shuttle. Our team is standing by 24/7 to help you plan the perfect travel solution for your group.