Friday Harbor Airport

Overview

Friday Harbor Airport (FHR) is a small public airport located on San Juan Island in Washington state. It serves as a vital transportation link for residents and visitors to the San Juan Islands archipelago, offering scheduled and charter air service to and from the mainland. The airport is primarily used by general aviation, including private pilots, flight schools, and scenic tour operators, as well as by commercial air taxi services that connect Friday Harbor with Seattle's Boeing Field and other regional airports. Given its island location, the airport provides a quick and scenic alternative to the Washington State Ferries system, which can experience long wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Location & Access

Friday Harbor Airport is situated approximately 1.5 miles south of the town of Friday Harbor, the county seat of San Juan County. The airport's address is 3050 A Street, Friday Harbor, WA 98250. To reach the airport from downtown, drivers head south on Spring Street, which turns into Argyle Avenue and then Airport Way. The drive takes about five minutes. Parking is available on site, including a designated wheelchair-accessible car park. For those without a car, taxis and rideshare services are available in Friday Harbor, and some hotels offer shuttle services. Alternatively, visitors can walk or bike the flat route into town, a 30-minute stroll through scenic woodlands and farmland.

The San Juan Islands are accessible by ferry from Anacortes on the mainland, but flying into Friday Harbor cuts travel time dramatically. The airport is also a popular base for private pilots flying themselves to the islands. No commercial airlines operate regular jet service; instead, carriers like Kenmore Air and San Juan Airlines offer turboprop flights from Seattle (Boeing Field) and other nearby airports. The airport's single runway (16/34) is paved and handles light aircraft.

Facilities

While small, Friday Harbor Airport provides essential amenities for passengers. The terminal building includes public toilets, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet is available. The entire facility is designed with accessibility in mind: a wheelchair-accessible car park is located near the entrance, and the terminal entrance is wheelchair-friendly. There is no on-site restaurant or café, but vending machines may be available. Passengers should note that the airport does not have a dedicated waiting lounge with extensive seating; it is a basic, functional facility. For food and services, travelers can easily walk or take a short taxi ride into Friday Harbor, where restaurants, shops, and accommodations are plentiful.

Given its small size, the airport does not offer baggage carousels or jet bridges. Passengers should be prepared to carry their luggage from the aircraft to the terminal. The airport is open on weekdays and limited hours on weekends; it is not open all days, so travelers should check operating hours before planning their trip.

About the Region

The San Juan Islands are a stunning archipelago in the Salish Sea, known for their natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and relaxed pace of life. Friday Harbor is the main commercial and cultural center of the islands, offering galleries, boutiques, seafood restaurants, and the Whale Museum, which focuses on the region's iconic orca whales. The island is also home to lime kilns from the 19th century, vineyards, and lavender farms. Popular activities include kayaking with harbor seals, whale watching (especially for resident killer whales), hiking in San Juan Island National Historical Park, and exploring the island's quiet country roads by bike.

The region's maritime climate means mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Summer is the peak tourist season, when the islands are bustling. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and vibrant foliage or wildflowers. Winter is quiet, with many businesses operating reduced hours.

Friday Harbor Airport plays a key role in connecting this remote but popular destination to the mainland, especially for travelers who value time efficiency or want a memorable aerial view of the islands.

Practical Information

• Hours: The airport is open daily but hours vary; it is not open every day of the week. Peak times for passenger traffic are around 12 pm and 2 pm, coinciding with scheduled flights. It is advisable to call ahead or check the website for current hours.
• Contact: Phone: +1 360-378-4724. Website: https://www.portfridayharbor.org/airport/about-the-airport/
• Parking: Free parking is available, including accessible spots. Overnight parking is permitted for travelers.
• Services: Restrooms and wheelchair accessibility are provided. No food or retail concessions are on site. Fuel (100LL and Jet-A) is available for aircraft operators.
• Transportation from airport: Taxis can be arranged by phone, or rideshare apps work in the area. The airport is within walking distance to town (about 30 minutes). Some car rental agencies are located in Friday Harbor, but not at the airport itself; travelers can rent a car in town or use local shuttle services.

For the most up-to-date information on flight schedules and services, contact the airport directly or visit the official website.