✈️ Flight Guide: West Palm Beach (PBI) → Washington, D.C. (BWI)

A nonstop flight from Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) typically takes about 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours, depending on winds and routing. December weather over the mid-Atlantic can add variability, so allow extra connection time if you have onward travel. Check live flight status before departure for the most accurate arrival estimate.

Nonstop service between Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is available seasonally and may be limited during December; carriers sometimes operate direct flights on weekends or holidays. If nonstop options are scarce, many airlines offer one-stop connections via major hubs. Always check airline schedules and book early for December holiday travel to secure nonstop seats.

For December travel, especially around Christmas and New Year, book as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 weeks ahead—to lock in reasonable fares and seat selection. Early December (first two weeks) can be less expensive than peak holiday weeks; set fare alerts and monitor price trends to time your purchase. Use flight price trackers and check both nonstop and connecting options to compare savings.

From Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), you can take taxis, rideshare services, shuttle vans, rental cars, or local Palm Tran buses to reach downtown West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter, and Fort Lauderdale. December is a popular travel month, so pre-book rideshares or rentals when possible and anticipate slightly longer wait times during holiday evenings. If visiting Palm Beach area holiday events, allow extra time for traffic and parking at popular venues.

Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) usually offers full terminal services in December including cafes, rental car counters, TSA security lanes, holiday-themed décor, and seasonal parking promotions. Expect increased staff and potentially extended hours at information desks around major holiday travel days. For a smoother trip, arrive earlier than usual, verify parking options, and check airport notices for any temporary holiday schedules.

December can bring winter storms and icing conditions in the Baltimore–Washington area that may delay arrivals even if Palm Beach weather is mild; pack essentials in your carry-on and build buffer time into your itinerary. Monitor airline alerts and airport advisories before traveling, and consider travel insurance for costly holiday disruptions. If you have tight connections, choose morning flights less likely to be delayed by cascading weather impacts.

Arriving at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) in December means you'll encounter holiday crowds, seasonal decorations, and potentially longer waits at baggage claim during peak times. Winter weather can affect ground transportation and cause de-icing-related delays, so allow extra time if you have connections to Washington, D.C., Annapolis, or downtown Baltimore. Use the airport's real-time monitors and airline notifications for up-to-date arrival information.

From Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), options include the MARC Penn Line and Amtrak from the BWI Rail Station, local shuttles, rental cars via the BWI Rental Car Center, light rail, and rideshare services to reach Washington, D.C., Annapolis, Columbia, Towson, and Arlington. In December, plan for holiday traffic and occasional weather-related disruptions; booking shuttles or car rentals in advance is recommended to lock in availability and rates.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) offers lounges and limited baggage services that may run seasonal hours in December; some airline lounges and third-party lounges operate in the terminal. For short-term storage or private rest spaces, check Minute Suites or airline-specific options, and confirm hours during the holidays. Arrive early when flying out and verify lounge access or storage availability online before your trip.

Expect icy roads and cold temperatures around Baltimore and Washington in December—dress in layers and carry a warm outer layer for short walks between terminals or to rental car shuttles. Allow additional connection time for de-icing, check local traffic and transit alerts, and keep essential items in your carry-on in case checked bags are delayed. For holiday travel, have printed or screenshot copies of confirmation numbers for hotels, car rentals, and trains.

From Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) you can reach Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and the festive Hampden neighborhood with its famous 34th Street holiday lights. Washington, D.C. museums and the National Mall are accessible by rail or car, and Annapolis offers Annapolis City Dock holiday events. December visitors often combine city sightseeing with seasonal attractions like holiday markets and skating rinks—plan ground transport in advance.

Parking and rental car availability at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) can tighten in December due to holiday travel; the BWI Rental Car Center consolidates most rental companies and can fill up during peak periods. Reserve rental cars in advance and consider off-site parking or pre-booked shuttle parking if you plan to leave a vehicle. Check airport parking maps and seasonal rates to choose the best lot for your stay.