San Bernardino International Airport

Overview

SBD International Airport serves as a regional aviation gateway for San Bernardino and the broader Inland Empire of Southern California. Originally Norton Air Force Base, the airport transitioned to civilian use and today accommodates a mix of cargo operations, general aviation, and charter passenger flights. While not a major hub for commercial airlines, SBD handles increasing amounts of air freight and serves as an alternative for private and business travelers seeking to bypass the congestion of Los Angeles-area airports. The airport is designated as an international port of entry, meaning it can process customs for arriving international flights, primarily cargo and charter. Passengers using SBD are typically those flying on private aircraft, corporate charters, or occasional scheduled services that have operated from the terminal.

Location & Access

SBD International Airport is situated in San Bernardino, California, approximately 60 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The airport sits at the foot of the San Bernardino Mountains, adjacent to Interstate 215 and State Route 210. Driving distances: about 30 minutes from Riverside, 45 minutes from Ontario, and 1 hour from central Orange County. The airport’s address is 1601 E 3rd St, San Bernardino, CA 92408. For passengers arriving by car, the airport is reached via the 215 freeway, exiting at 3rd Street. On-site parking is available, including designated spaces for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Rideshare services and taxis are the primary ground transport options; public bus routes (Omnitrans) serve nearby stops but do not directly enter the terminal area. Rental car services are not confirmed on the airport grounds, but several national chains have locations in the surrounding city.

Facilities

SBD International Airport offers essential amenities for passengers. The terminal building provides Wi-Fi throughout, allowing travelers to stay connected. Restrooms are available and include wheelchair-accessible toilets. A changing table is present in at least one restroom, making the airport family-friendly. The car park and entrance are wheelchair-accessible, ensuring ease of movement for passengers with mobility needs. For dining and shopping, the airport does not currently feature full-service restaurants or retail shops; passengers should plan to bring snacks or eat before arriving. Vending machines may be present, but the focus is on the efficient processing of travelers. The terminal is modest in size, reflecting its role as a secondary airport.

About the Region

San Bernardino is the largest city by area in California and anchors the inland region known as the Inland Empire. The area is a major logistics and warehousing hub due to its position at the crossroads of several major interstates and railways. The nearby San Bernardino Mountains provide outdoor recreation opportunities: hiking, skiing at Snow Valley and Big Bear, and forest exploration in the San Bernardino National Forest. The city itself is historically significant as the site of the original McDonald’s restaurant (now a museum). Visitors often travel to the area for business related to distribution centers, for events at the National Orange Show Events Center, or simply to enjoy the drier, warmer climate compared to coastal Southern California. The airport serves as a convenient entry point for those heading to the mountain resorts or inland desert areas.

Practical Information

SBD International Airport is open during daytime hours; the facility is not open 24 hours daily. Peak passenger traffic occurs around 4–5 pm, with the busiest times likely coinciding with charter flight arrivals and departures. For specific flight schedules, passengers should check with their airline or charter provider. The airport’s website is flysbd.com, which provides current information on operations and services. For general inquiries, call +1 909-382-4100. Travelers should be aware that the terminal lacks extensive amenities, so arriving prepared is recommended. Security procedures are in place for all passengers, though the process is typically quicker than at larger airports. International arrivals will clear customs on site at the federal inspection station.