The Port of Bellingham has designated July 20 through August 19, 2027, as the window for the 30-day full runway closure at Bellingham International Airport (KBLI).
While the Port Commission approved the 30-day duration in February 2026, the specific calendar dates remained unconfirmed until recently. Official publication followed the March 31, 2026, project bid opening, allowing Port officials and airport leadership to synchronize the construction schedule with federal funding requirements and commercial carrier operational cycles.
With the dates now set more than a year in advance, regional business travelers are expected to adjust their 2027 travel schedules.
- Total Flight Suspension: During the 30-day period, all fixed-wing operations—including commercial flights by Alaska and Allegiant—will be suspended.
- Regional Alternatives: Corporate travelers are advised to utilize Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), Paine Field (PAE) in Everett, or Vancouver International (YVR) for air travel.
- Operational Status: The airport terminal will remain open for ground-based business, and helicopter operations (including emergency medical transport) will continue unaffected.
The Port’s decision to implement a single, month-long shutdown rather than multiple shorter closures is a strategic move to preserve long-term airport viability.
- Port officials estimate the airport will incur a $385,000 loss in aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenue during the 30-day window.
- The $25 million overall project is 90–95% funded by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants.
- By combining the runway repaving with the reconstruction of three taxiways and the installation of new runway blast pads, the Port aims to eliminate the need for further extended closures for at least five years.
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