What is the closest airport to Pinehurst, North Carolina? - TravelAsker (2024)

Finding the Closest Airport to Pinehurst, NC

Pinehurst, North Carolina, is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, thanks to its numerous golf courses, including the iconic Pinehurst Resort. If you’re planning a trip to Pinehurst, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is how to get there. While Pinehurst does have a small airport, it only accommodates private planes and charters. Therefore, you’ll need to look at the various airports nearby to find the best option for your trip. In this article, we’ll explore the different airports close to Pinehurst and help you select the one that best suits your needs.

Understanding the Location of Pinehurst, NC

Pinehurst is a charming town located in Moore County, North Carolina. It’s situated in the Sandhills region of the state, about 75 miles southwest of Raleigh and 60 miles southeast of Greensboro. Despite its relatively small size, Pinehurst is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the country, especially golfers. To get to Pinehurst, you’ll need to consider the various airports in the region and select the one that provides the best combination of convenience and affordability.

Assessing the Airports Nearby Pinehurst, NC

There are several airports near Pinehurst, ranging from major international airports to small regional ones. Here’s a quick overview of the airports you can consider when planning your trip:

Raleigh-Durham International Airport: The Closest Major Airport

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is the closest major airport to Pinehurst, located about 70 miles northeast of the town. RDU is a hub for several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest, and offers nonstop flights to over 60 domestic and international destinations. If you’re looking for the most convenient option, RDU is likely your best bet.

Fayetteville Regional Airport: The Second Closest Airport

Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY) is the second-closest airport to Pinehurst, located about 40 miles southeast of the town. FAY is a small airport, with only a handful of airlines offering flights to a limited number of destinations. However, it’s a good option if you’re looking for a smaller, less crowded airport.

Moore County Airport: The Closest Regional Airport

Moore County Airport (SOP) is the closest regional airport to Pinehurst, located just 4 miles northwest of the town. While SOP is a small airport, it’s a convenient option if you’re arriving in a private plane or charter, as it’s the only airport in the region that accommodates these types of flights.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport: An Alternative Option

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is located about 100 miles southwest of Pinehurst, making it a bit further away than RDU. However, CLT is a major hub for American Airlines, offering nonstop flights to over 180 destinations. If you’re unable to find a suitable flight to RDU, CLT may be a good alternative.

Wilmington International Airport: A Further Alternative

Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is located about 120 miles southeast of Pinehurst, making it the furthest airport on this list. However, ILM is a good option if you’re looking to explore the coastal region of North Carolina, as it’s located near several popular beach towns.

Distance and Travel Time from Pinehurst to Each Airport

Here’s a quick summary of the distance and travel time from Pinehurst to each airport:

• RDU: 70 miles, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
• FAY: 40 miles, approximately 45 minutes by car
• SOP: 4 miles, approximately 10 minutes by car
• CLT: 100 miles, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car
• ILM: 120 miles, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by car

Transportation Options from the Airport to Pinehurst

Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to consider your transportation options to get to Pinehurst. Depending on the airport you choose, you may have several choices, including rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttles. If you’re flying into RDU, you can also take the Amtrak train to the Southern Pines station, which is about 5 miles from Pinehurst.

Additional Considerations and Tips for Travelers

When selecting your airport, consider factors like your budget, travel itinerary, and personal preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, you may want to consider FAY or SOP. If you’re arriving in a private plane or charter, SOP is your only option. Additionally, be sure to factor in any potential delays or layovers when planning your trip.

Conclusion: Selecting the Best Airport for Your Pinehurst Trip

In conclusion, Pinehurst is a popular destination for golfers and tourists alike, and there are several airports in the region you can consider when planning your trip. Whether you’re looking for the closest major airport or a smaller, more convenient option, there’s sure to be an airport that meets your needs. By considering factors like distance, travel time, and transportation options, you can select the best airport for your Pinehurst trip and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.