The Group Travel Guide to Airports in & Around Redding, California

Planning group travel by air can be complicated, especially if you’re flying into or out of a smaller city like Redding. Whether you’re hosting a corporate retreat in Shasta County, organizing a school field trip to Turtle Bay Exploration Park, or coordinating a family reunion with relatives arriving from all over the country, your airport transfer logistics matter. In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to get your group to and from airports in and around Redding, California.

Charter Bus Rental Redding has been providing reliable airport shuttles for groups across Northern California for more than 10 years. With instant online quotes, a huge selection of bus sizes and amenities, and a team that’s available 24/7, we make it easy to keep your travelers comfortable and on schedule—no matter which airport you choose. Call 530-806-0980 anytime for a quick quote or use our simple tool to compare options in just 30 seconds!

Quick Answer: Redding Municipal Airport is Your Closest Option

If you want the most convenient airport for arrivals and departures in Redding, your best bet is Redding Municipal Airport (RDD). Located just 8 miles southeast of downtown, RDD is small, easy to navigate, and well-suited for groups who value simplicity over flight variety. It’s serviced by United Express, which offers daily flights to San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX), connecting you to hundreds of destinations worldwide.

While other airports like Sacramento International (SMF) or Rogue Valley International-Medford (MFR) have more airlines and routes, they require a two- to three-hour drive each way. If minimizing ground transportation time is your priority, fly through RDD and let Charter Bus Rental Redding handle the rest.

Where Can Your Charter Bus Load and Unload at Redding Municipal?

One of the biggest perks of using Redding Municipal for group trips is how straightforward it is for buses, vans, and oversized vehicles. The terminal at 6751 Woodrum Circle has a dedicated commercial vehicle lane directly in front of baggage claim. Your charter bus can pull up curbside, giving passengers an easy walk from the luggage carousel to their private shuttle.

If your bus needs to wait for a delayed flight, short-term parking is steps away from the terminal entrance. There’s no need to worry about navigating congested roads or finding offsite lots like you might at larger airports. Just coordinate pickup times with your group, and enjoy stress-free loading and unloading every time.

What Amenities Are Available for Groups at RDD?

Although Redding Municipal is a small airport, it has all the essentials your group will need before or after a flight. Inside the terminal, you’ll find a comfortable waiting area with free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and clean restrooms. There’s also a vending machine for snacks and drinks, as well as a small café offering coffee, pastries, and light meals during peak hours.

If your group has extra time, take advantage of the outdoor picnic tables and shaded seating near the parking lot. They’re perfect for enjoying some fresh air or holding a quick meeting before heading to your next destination. And since security lines are rarely long, you won’t have to rush through the airport—giving everyone a more relaxed travel experience.

Dining and Shopping Options Near the Airport

While RDD doesn’t have a full-service restaurant inside the terminal, there are several dining options within a short drive. For a pre-flight meal or post-arrival gathering, consider taking your charter bus to one of these nearby spots:

• Cafe Paradisio: A popular Italian eatery located about 6 miles from the airport, offering pasta, pizza, and salads in a casual setting.
• Black Bear Diner: This local favorite serves hearty American breakfasts, burgers, and comfort food all day long. It’s less than 10 minutes from RDD and great for feeding large groups.
• In-N-Out Burger: If your travelers are craving fast food, the famous California chain is just off I-5 on Cypress Avenue. Grab some burgers and shakes before hitting the road!

For last-minute shopping, head to the Shasta Mall or Mt. Shasta Mall, both about 15 minutes from the airport. You’ll find major retailers like Target, Macy’s, and Best Buy, as well as local boutiques for souvenirs and gifts.

Alternative Airports for More Flight Options

If Redding Municipal’s limited service doesn’t fit your itinerary, you have two main alternatives: Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR).

Sacramento International (SMF) is approximately 160 miles south of Redding, about a 2.5-hour drive via I-5. It’s the largest airport in the region, with nonstop flights to dozens of cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Airlines include Southwest, Delta, Alaska, American, United, and JetBlue, giving you plenty of choices for schedules and fares.

Rogue Valley International-Medford (MFR) is about 150 miles north, just over 2.5 hours by charter bus. While smaller than SMF, MFR offers direct flights to Seattle, Portland, Denver, Phoenix, and several California cities. It’s a good option if your group is coming from the Pacific Northwest or wants to avoid Sacramento traffic.

Both airports have designated areas for charter bus pickups and drop-offs, as well as ample parking for oversized vehicles. If you need help planning a multi-airport itinerary or want to compare costs, our team can provide custom quotes for any route in California or southern Oregon.

Tips for Smooth Group Airport Transfers

To ensure your airport transportation goes off without a hitch, keep these best practices in mind:

• Book early: Reserve your charter bus or minibus at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like summer or holidays. This guarantees availability and locks in the best rates.
• Share your flight details: Provide your bus company with airline names, flight numbers, and estimated arrival/departure times. This helps them monitor delays and adjust pickup schedules as needed.
• Choose the right bus size: Match your vehicle to your group’s headcount and luggage needs. A 20-passenger minibus works well for small teams or families, while a 56-passenger charter bus is ideal for large events or tour groups with lots of gear.
• Request onboard amenities: For longer drives to or from the airport, ask for Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining seats, and a restroom. These features keep passengers comfortable and entertained during transit.
• Designate a group leader: Assign one person to communicate with the bus driver, coordinate headcounts, and relay any changes. This streamlines decision-making and prevents miscommunication.

Popular Destinations We Serve From Redding Airports

No matter where your group is headed after landing at Redding Municipal, Charter Bus Rental Redding can get you there safely and efficiently. Some of our most-requested routes include:

• Shasta Lake: Take your outdoor enthusiasts on a fishing, boating, or camping trip just 30 minutes north of RDD. A charter bus is perfect for hauling coolers, tents, and water sports equipment.
• Lassen Volcanic National Park: Explore geothermal wonders, hike scenic trails, or host a nature retreat about 50 miles east of the airport. Our buses can navigate mountain roads and provide climate control for all seasons.
• Downtown Redding: Head into the city center for conferences, festivals, or nightlife. Popular stops include the Sundial Bridge, Cascade Theatre, and Market Street Promenade.
• Mount Shasta: Plan a ski trip, spiritual retreat, or sightseeing tour to one of California’s most iconic peaks, roughly 70 miles north. Store skis, snowboards, or hiking packs in the bus’s undercarriage compartments.

If you have multiple drop-off points or want to customize your itinerary, just let us know. We can arrange point-to-point shuttles, hourly rentals, or multi-day packages to suit any schedule.

Why Choose Charter Bus Rental Redding for Airport Transportation?

When it comes to moving groups between airports and destinations in Northern California, reliability and flexibility are key. Here’s why so many planners trust Charter Bus Rental Redding year after year:

• 24/7 customer support: Our team is always available by phone or online chat to answer questions, update reservations, or assist with emergencies. We’ll never leave you stranded.
• Instant online quotes: Get transparent pricing in less than a minute using our simple tool. No hidden fees, no haggling—just honest rates based on your exact needs.
• Statewide coverage: Whether you’re staying local or traveling across California, we have buses ready to serve airports in Redding, Sacramento, Medford, and beyond.
• Customizable packages: Pick your preferred bus type, amenities, and itinerary. We’ll build a package that fits your budget and exceeds your expectations.
• Experienced drivers: All our bus drivers are carefully vetted, fully licensed, and trained to prioritize safety and hospitality. Relax knowing you’re in professional hands from start to finish.

Book Your Redding Airport Shuttle Today

Don’t let airport transfers become the weakest link in your group travel plans. With Charter Bus Rental Redding, you’ll enjoy seamless, door-to-door service that keeps everyone together and on time. From small family gatherings to large-scale conventions, our fleet is equipped to handle any challenge—and our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched.

Ready to get started? Call 530-806-0980 now for a personalized quote, or use our online tool to explore options and prices in seconds. Let us take the wheel so you can focus on what matters most—making your group’s journey to and from Redding airports smooth, safe, and memorable.