Vernal Airports Travel Guide

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Key Highlights

Vernal Regional Airport (VEL/KVEL) is close to Vernal, Utah. It is just one mile from the city. You can use this airport to go right into Vernal.
Contour Airlines now gives direct flights to big cities. You can fly to Denver or Phoenix–Sky Harbor from here.
The airport has a long history. In the past, airlines like Frontier Airlines and United Airlines have flown here.
This is a smaller airport, but you still get the main things you need. There are car rentals and parking, so your trip goes well.
If you want more choices for flights, you can look at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). It is about 178 miles from Vernal. Salt Lake City is another way to travel in and out of Utah.

Introduction

Are you planning a trip to the middle of Utah’s Dinosaurland? Most people start this trip at Vernal Regional Airport. This small, helpful airport is the main one for Vernal, Utah, and places around the Uintah Basin. If you are coming for a business visit or want to go outside for some fun, this guide has you covered. You will get all the details about using Vernal Regional Airport. Learn about flight options, ground transportation, and what else you can find here, so you have a smooth travel experience from beginning to end.

Overview of Vernal Regional Airport

Vernal Regional Airport, known by the codes VEL and KVEL, is open to the public. Uintah County and Vernal City own and run this airport together. It is an important place for people who live in Vernal, Utah, and those who visit the area. The FAA puts this airport in the group of non-primary commercial service airports, and it helps thousands of passengers every year.

The airport has one runway that is made of asphalt. Commercial planes and other flights both use this runway. In the next parts, we will talk about where the airport is and tell you about its history. You will see the real importance of Vernal Regional Airport in this community.

Location, Airport Code, and Accessibility

If you are wondering where you will land, Vernal Regional Airport is a good place. It is just one mile southeast of Vernal, Utah. This makes it very easy for people to get to the city. When booking your flight or using a map, it helps to use these airport codes: the IATA code is VEL, the ICAO code is KVEL, and the FAA LID is also VEL. Airlines, pilots, and air traffic control all use these codes to plan and track flights.

Vernal Regional Airport sits at 5,274 feet above sea level and covers 393 acres. It has one main asphalt runway. That runway is named 17/35 and is 7,000 feet long by 100 feet wide. Because of its size, the runway can handle regional jets that fly here, plus all kinds of small private planes and other aircraft.

The airport belongs to both the city and the county, so it is a public airport. It is set up to be easy for people to use. Pilots and people who are interested in planes can find more facts about the airport on AirNav. If you are a passenger, it takes you only a few minutes to get from the airport to the heart of Vernal.

Historical Significance and Role in the Uintah Basin

Vernal Regional Airport has a long history of helping the Uintah Basin stay connected with the rest of the country. For more than 30 years, the original Frontier Airlines flew out of the airport. It started in 1950. In those early days, Frontier used Douglas DC-3 planes to fly people to Salt Lake City and Denver. This made it easier for people in the area to travel.

Over the years, Vernal Regional Airport has been served by many different airlines. These have included commuter airlines like SkyWest Airlines (first on its own, then with Delta Connection and Western Express), Air Midwest, and Great Lakes Aviation. These airlines helped people in Vernal get to big cities and kept air service working for everyone.

The airport’s story is still changing. For years, United Express had flights to Denver from Vernal. But that changed in February 2024, when Contour Airlines became the main commercial airline here. This change shows how Vernal Regional Airport stays important and always works to meet people’s needs in Vernal and the Uintah Basin.

Airlines, Destinations, and Booking Options

When you fly in or out of Vernal Regional Airport, you will fly with an airline that is now supported to keep people in the area connected. Contour Airlines is the only commercial airline there. It offers direct flights to important places. Contour Airlines took over this job after United Airlines and its partner stopped running these routes.

If you want a trip with no stops or want to look at stop flights from other cities, it’s important to know your choices. Keep reading to find out which places you can fly to, and get some tips on how to book your next flight from Vernal Regional Airport.

Airlines Serving Vernal Regional Airport and Flight Destinations

Currently, Contour Airlines is the exclusive commercial airline serving Vernal Regional Airport. This carrier provides essential air service connecting Vernal to larger airport hubs, which makes national and international travel more accessible for local residents and visitors. Previously, United Express, operated by SkyWest Airlines, offered flights to Denver, but this service has been replaced.

The direct flights offered by Contour Airlines expand the travel possibilities from Vernal. Here are the current destinations you can fly to directly from VEL:

Airline	Destinations
Contour Airlines	Denver, Phoenix–Sky Harbor

These routes provide excellent opportunities for connections. The service to Phoenix–Sky Harbor is a relatively new addition, having started on February 1, 2024. Flying into major hubs like Denver and Phoenix opens up a vast network of connecting flights, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure.

How to Book Flights and Traveler Tips

Booking a flight from Vernal Regional Airport is easy for all people. You can use the Contour Airlines website to see their schedules and fares. This is the direct way to book. You can also use big travel websites. These sites let you look at flights, and can help you if you want to add a hotel or a car when you book.

Here are some tips for your trip from VEL:

Book in Advance: Buy your tickets early if you want a good price, especially in busy travel times.
Check Baggage Rules: Look at Contour Airlines’ baggage rules and fees before you go, so you do not get any surprises at the airport.
Arrive Early: VEL might be smaller than other airports, but you should still get there at least 90 minutes before you leave.
Plan Connections: When booking, make sure you think about layover times at places like Denver or Phoenix. This will help your connections go smoothly.

Flying from VEL is much easier for people in Vernal. You do not have to drive far like you would to the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) or Salt Lake City. Planning in advance can help you have a good, easy travel day.

Contour Airlines

Airport Facilities and Passenger Services

Vernal Regional Airport is a small, regional place for flying. It aims to give every traveler what they need without any hassle. You will not see huge terminals like the big city airports. Still, it is clean and easy to use. The airport was made for you to move through fast, with all the basic service you need for your trip.

The airport covers the main things every flier looks for. You can get help with things like finding a car to rent, getting a ride, or a spot for your car. Everything here is made just for people flying to or from smaller places. In the next sections, you will see more about the things you can use at Vernal Regional Airport. These include places to eat, rental cars, and parking. This will help you know what to expect and make your travel easy.

Passenger Amenities, Lounges, and Dining

Vernal Regional Airport gives you the main things you need to feel good while you wait for your flight. The services at this airport are made to be helpful but not hard to use like big airports. You will find a clean place to sit, restrooms, and staff who can help you with ticket or bag questions.

Since Vernal Regional Airport is smaller, there are not lots of food choices or fancy airline lounges. This airport wants to keep things working well without adding extra steps. You can check in, go through security, and get on your flight without trouble. If you want a meal, you should think about eating before you get to Vernal Regional Airport.

One good thing about the way VEL handles guest needs is that it keeps things simple. There are not many things to distract you. You also do not have to walk far. This makes your time at Vernal Regional Airport faster and easier than at bigger airports. It is a good place to start or end your trip.

Car Rentals, Transportation, and Parking Options

You can find ground transportation, like car rentals, right at Vernal Regional Airport. Having a car is the best way to see Vernal and the beautiful Uintah Basin. You can get your vehicle as soon as you land, which makes everything easy.

There is on-site parking for people who drive to the airport. To help you plan your trip, here is what you need to know about transportation and parking:

Car Rentals: A few car rental companies are usually at or near Vernal Regional Airport. It is a good idea to make a booking ahead of time.
On-Site Parking: You can park your car at the airport for a short or long time.
Taxi and Shuttle Services: You can use local taxi companies or pre-booked shuttles. These will get you downtown or to hotels close by.

These options will help you get from the airport to where you want to go. If you want to enjoy the freedom of your own car or just take a quick taxi, you will have an easy and smooth trip when you travel through Vernal Regional Airport.

Alternative Airports Near Vernal, Utah

Vernal Regional Airport is the closest way to get into the city. But, it can help to know about other airports in the area too. Your plans, how much you want to spend, or which airline you like, might make you look at flying into a different place and then driving to Vernal. The closest big airports are Salt Lake City International Airport, Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport, and Grand Junction Regional Airport.

Each airport has some things you might like. Some have more flight choices or prices that may save you money. Let’s take a look at these other airports so you can pick what works best for your trip to Vernal, Utah.

Closest Domestic and International Airports

For travelers seeking more flight options, several other airports are located within a few hours’ drive of Vernal, Utah. The most significant of these is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which serves as a major hub for Delta Air Lines and offers numerous domestic and international flights. Other regional airports also provide good alternatives.

To help you visualize your options, here is a breakdown of the closest airports and their distance from Vernal:

Airport	Code	Distance from Vernal
Salt Lake City International Airport	SLC	178 miles
Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport	RKS	120 miles
Grand Junction Regional Airport	GJT	142 miles

Choosing one of these alternative airports requires factoring in the additional driving time. However, for those looking for more direct flights from their origin city or seeking service from a specific airline, flying into Salt Lake City, Rock Springs, or Grand Junction can be an excellent choice.

Comparing Travel Options for the Region

Deciding where to fly into depends on what is best for you. You need to think about how easy, cheap, and quick the trip will be. If you land at Vernal Regional Airport (VEL), it is hard to beat for being close. But, sometimes using other airports can give you perks that make the extra drive worth it.

Here is a simple look at your choices for coming to Vernal:

Ultimate Convenience: Vernal Regional Airport (VEL) puts you at your spot right away. You do not have to do a long drive after you land.
Most Flight Choices: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) has many direct flights, both from the U.S and other countries. There are more options to get there.
Potential Cost Savings: It can be cheaper to fly to bigger airports like SLC. But do not forget, you will spend more money on renting a car and buying gas for the three-hour drive to Vernal.
Other Regional Gateways: Rock Springs (RKS) and Grand Junction (GJT) are not far from Vernal. They may have good deals on tickets with regional airlines.

The right airport for you comes down to where you start and what you care most about. Think about your travel time and what you will spend. This way, you can pick what is best for your trip to Vernal.

Exploring Vernal—Getting To and From the Airport

When you land at Vernal Regional Airport, you will be close to starting your adventure in Vernal. The airport is not far from the city. This makes it fast and simple to get to the downtown area and other fun places close by. There are many ground transportation choices at the airport to help you get moving right away.

You can rent a car if you want to have more ways to move around. But if you just want to get to your hotel, there are easy transfers, too. It is simple to move around Vernal. The sections below will show you details about transportation services and what you can do in the area.

Ground Transportation and Transfers to Downtown Vernal

Getting from Vernal Regional Airport to downtown Vernal or your hotel is quick and easy. The city center is about a mile away. You will be at your hotel or out shopping within minutes after you leave the airport. Different ground transportation services are there to help you make these short trips.

If you want the most convenience and the freedom to go where you want, it is best to rent a car. Here are the main ways to get around from Vernal Regional Airport:

Car Rentals: This is the top pick for visitors. It gives you the freedom to drive and see all of Vernal.
Local Taxis: Taxis can take you right to any place in Vernal.
Shuttle Services: Some hotels might have shuttles. Check with your hotel before your trip.
Rideshare Apps: You can use your favorite rideshare app when you get to Vernal.

With these ways to travel, you can get from Vernal Regional Airport to the heart of the city with no trouble. It is smart to book your car or shuttle ahead of time, so it will be waiting for you when you get there.

Nearby Attractions and Local Experiences

After you have your way to get from the airport, you can start to see the amazing things close to Vernal. The city is known for its old history and the beautiful nature all around. It is a great place to begin if you want to explore. The Uintah Basin is filled with things to do, and there is something for everyone.

Here are a few things you may want to try when you plan your trip:

Check out the area’s rich story with old bones and fossils.
Go to parks to see cool rock shapes and areas full of fossils.
Take part in things outdoors, like hiking, fishing, and boating close to the wild parts.
Find out more about the history and culture of people in downtown Vernal.

If you have a rental car, you can go from the airport to all these great places with ease. Whether you enjoy stories from the past or want to take in the views, Vernal has many things that will make your trip one to remember.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Vernal Regional Airport is an important way to get in and out of Vernal, Utah. It lets people get to the beautiful places and things to see in this area. The airport is in a good spot, has different airlines you can use, and gives you all the important services you need as a passenger. This makes travel easy here. If you want a good place to eat that’s local or wish to see things close by, you will find what you need. This guide has all the right information to help your trip go without trouble and be fun. So, don’t wait to start your trip—Vernal is ready for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are parking options and fees at Vernal Regional Airport?

Vernal Regional Airport has parking right at the airport for people who travel. You can choose from both short-term and long-term parking. The cost for parking can change. So, it is a good idea to look at the official Vernal, Utah city website or call the airport before your trip to get the latest prices and details.

Are there any traveler reviews or ratings for Vernal Regional Airport?

Yes, you can see traveler reviews and ratings for Vernal Regional Airport on many travel websites and forums. Since Vernal Regional Airport is smaller, people often talk about its easy check-in, and how simple it is to get around. Many who have used the airport say that the staff is friendly and the whole visit is less stressful than bigger airports.

Which ground transportation services are available at Vernal Regional Airport?

There are a few ways to travel from Vernal Regional Airport to where you need to go. You can use car rentals right at the airport. There are local taxis for direct rides. You can also book a shuttle ahead of time. All these options help you get to downtown Vernal easily. It’s only about a mile from the airport.