West Palm Beach’s Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) has a few solid options for international travel. The best international airlines flying out of PBI include JetBlue, Delta, American Airlines, and Bahamasair, each providing access to important destinations beyond the US.
These carriers connect you to key cities in the Caribbean, Central America, and beyond. That makes getting out of the country from here a lot more convenient than you might expect.
Travelers going through PBI usually find it less crowded. It’s just easier to get around here compared to the bigger airports down south.
Check-ins and security lines? They’re often quicker, so you’re not starting your trip stressed out. Whether you’re heading out for work or play, PBI’s practical setup can really save you time.
You also get a decent variety of routes and flight times from these airlines. The mix of carriers lets you compare schedules and prices—so you can actually pick what works for you.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple major airlines offer solid international service at PBI.
- PBI provides a simpler airport experience with less crowding.
- You get a good range of international destinations with flexible flight options.
Top International Airlines Operating at West Palm Beach Airport
West Palm Beach’s airport has a handful of airlines flying internationally. You’ll find reliable options with frequent flights to the Caribbean and some parts of Central and South America.
These airlines focus on good connections and schedules that aren’t a hassle.
jetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways is one of the main airlines you’ll spot at Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) for international trips. They’ve got several flights to the Caribbean, especially the Bahamas.
JetBlue uses newer planes like the Airbus A320, so the ride’s pretty comfortable.
One thing folks seem to love is JetBlue’s free Wi-Fi and entertainment. The airline keeps a regular schedule, so planning trips to nearby countries is straightforward.
JetBlue’s presence at PBI is well established, and you’ll often find prices are competitive.
Other Major International Airlines
Besides JetBlue, you’ve got daily international flights on Delta, American, and Southwest from PBI. These airlines mainly connect you to the Caribbean and Central America.
Delta and American fly aircraft like the McDonnell Douglas MD-90 and Airbus A320. Southwest runs international flights too, mostly short-haul routes.
Each airline has its own schedule quirks, so you’ll want to check what fits best for your plans.
| Airline | Common International Destinations | Aircraft Types |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | Caribbean, Mexico | McDonnell Douglas MD-90 |
| American | Caribbean, Central America | Airbus A320 |
| Southwest | Caribbean, Mexico | Boeing 737 |
International Destinations and Routes from PBI
PBI gives you direct access to several international cities, which is super handy if you’re not a fan of layovers. There are nonstop flights to popular spots in the Caribbean and Canada.
These routes work for both vacations and business trips.
Popular International Routes
From PBI, you can fly nonstop to places like Marsh Harbour (MHH) and North Eleuthera (ELH) in the Bahamas. These are go-to flights for folks heading to the islands.
You can also get direct flights to Canadian cities like Montreal (YUL) and Toronto (YYZ).
A variety of airlines offer these nonstop flights, so you get options for schedules and prices. No layovers means less travel stress and more time at your destination.
Seasonal and Charter International Flights
Some international flights at PBI are seasonal, showing up mostly during busy travel times. These include extra routes to vacation spots that get crowded during holidays or special events.
Charter flights pop up now and then, offering direct service to places that aren’t on the regular schedule.
Seasonal flights can be cheaper if your travel dates are flexible. It’s worth checking availability ahead of time, especially if you’re hoping for a deal during quieter periods.
You’ll find seasonal flights to Caribbean islands and, sometimes, other international destinations if there’s enough demand.
Traveler Guide for International Air Travel at PBI
When you’re traveling internationally through PBI, the check-in and security process is pretty straightforward. Ground transportation and rental cars are easy to find, with plenty of options to get you where you’re going—even if it’s just Delray Beach.
Check-In and Security Process
At PBI, it’s smart to arrive early for international flights. The usual advice is at least 3 hours before departure.
Check-in counters are in each concourse, and you’ll want your passport and travel documents ready to go. Most airlines let you check in online, which can be a real time saver.
Security is strict and follows TSA rules. You’ll go through metal detectors, and your bags get scanned.
Make sure you’re following the TSA limits on liquids and electronics.
Ground Transportation and Rental Car Options
Palm Beach International Airport has a bunch of ground transportation choices. You can grab a taxi, ride-share, airport shuttle, or even a public bus to get to nearby spots like Delray Beach.
If you need a rental car, the Rental Car Center is right by the terminals. All the major companies are there, so picking up or dropping off a car is painless.
Signs and staff make it pretty clear where to go for transportation. Car rentals, shuttles, and other transit are just outside the main terminal.
Comparing PBI With Nearby Airports for International Flights
If you’re weighing your options for international travel near West Palm Beach, there’s more to think about than just flight times. Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) both offer more international flights, but the crowds can be a hassle.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International is the biggest and busiest airport in South Florida for international flights. Tons of airlines, direct routes to Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean—it’s all there.
If you want the most flight options or need to connect somewhere far, MIA’s your best bet.
But keep in mind, Miami is about 70 miles from West Palm Beach. That’s a bit of a trek. The airport is always packed, so lines can get long and delays aren’t rare.
Then again, if you care most about having every possible flight option, it might be worth it.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
FLL sits about 40 miles south of West Palm Beach. It’s definitely closer than MIA, which makes driving there a bit less of a headache.
You won’t find as many international flights here as you would at MIA. Still, there are plenty of options to the Caribbean and some spots in Central America.
FLL tends to be less crowded than Miami International, but it’s busier than PBI. Security lines can move a little faster than in Miami, though you never really know.
A lot of low-cost and international airlines fly out of FLL. That sometimes means snagging a cheaper ticket, depending on where you’re headed.
Flight choices aren’t as broad as what you’d get at MIA, but for some, the convenience makes up for it.