Santa Rosa Airport, officially known as Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS), serves as a vital transportation hub for residents and visitors of Sonoma County, California. Named after the beloved cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, creator of the Peanuts comic strip, the airport is not only a gateway to the stunning landscapes of wine country but also a reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Located approximately 8 miles from downtown Santa Rosa, the airport is strategically positioned to provide easy access to picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and charming towns.
Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS) is the primary commercial air hub for California’s Wine Country. It is currently served by major carriers including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Avelo Airlines, offering direct flights to destinations such as Los Angeles, Seattle, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
Key Takeaways
- Santa Rosa Airport (STS) offers a convenient, low-stress alternative to SFO and Oakland for Wine Country travel.
- Major Airlines: Served by Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Avelo Airlines.
- New Service: Southwest Airlines is scheduled to begin service in April 2026.
- Destinations: Direct flights connect to Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Burbank, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Denver.
- Amenities: Features include the Sky Lounge, local dining options, and affordable parking compared to Bay Area hubs.
Major Airlines Serving Sonoma County
Santa Rosa Airport has grown significantly in recent years, attracting carriers that connect Sonoma County to key hubs across the United States. The airport offers an intimate experience with fewer crowds than major Bay Area airports.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines remains a key player at STS, offering daily flights to major West Coast cities including Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), and Los Angeles (LAX), as well as San Diego and Orange County. Their extensive network makes them a reliable choice for business and leisure travelers.
Avelo Airlines
Avelo Airlines has established a strong presence in Santa Rosa, offering budget-friendly nonstop flights to destinations like Burbank (BUR), Las Vegas (LAS), Palm Springs (PSP), and Redmond/Bend (RDM). Avelo is particularly popular for travelers looking for quick, affordable getaways.
American & United Airlines
United Airlines provides essential connectivity to international networks via hubs in San Francisco (SFO) and Denver (DEN). American Airlines serves passengers with daily flights to Phoenix (PHX) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), facilitating easy travel to the East Coast and beyond.
Flight Destinations from Santa Rosa Airport
The flight destinations available from Santa Rosa Airport reflect the diverse travel needs of its passengers. Travelers can easily access urban centers known for business and culture, or gateways to outdoor adventure.
- Pacific Northwest: Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), Redmond/Bend (RDM).
- Southern California: Los Angeles (LAX), Burbank (BUR), San Diego (SAN), Orange County (SNA), Palm Springs (PSP).
- Southwest & Mountain: Las Vegas (LAS), Phoenix (PHX), Denver (DEN), Salt Lake City (SLC – Seasonal).
- Texas: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).
For the most current flight status and schedules, you can check the official Sonoma County Airport website.
Amenities and Services at Santa Rosa Airport
Santa Rosa Airport prides itself on providing a relaxed “wine country” atmosphere. The terminal features outdoor patio seating, a distinct advantage over larger airports.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dining | Local favorites including Sky Lounge Steakhouse & Sushi Bar and grab-and-go kiosks. |
| Shopping | Newsstands and local gift shops featuring Sonoma County products. |
| Wi-Fi | Fast, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. |
| Parking | Short-term and long-term lots are within walking distance of the terminal. |
| Family | Nursing rooms and the famous “Peanuts” statues for photo ops. |
Tips for Traveling through Santa Rosa Airport
Traveling through STS is generally smoother than SFO or OAK, but preparation is still key:
- Arrive Early: Even though lines are shorter, arrive 90 minutes before your flight, especially during holiday peaks.
- Wine Policy: Alaska Airlines’ “Wine Flies Free” program allows Mileage Plan members to check a case of wine for free when flying out of STS.
- TSA PreCheck: A dedicated lane is available and highly recommended for faster screening.
Future Expansion Plans: Southwest Airlines
As travel demand grows, Santa Rosa Airport is expanding its facilities. The most significant upcoming development is the arrival of Southwest Airlines. Scheduled to begin service in April 2026, Southwest will introduce routes to Las Vegas, Denver, San Diego, and Burbank. This addition is expected to lower fares and significantly increase connectivity for North Bay residents.
Physical improvements to the terminal, including expanded gate areas and baggage claim facilities, are ongoing to support this increased passenger traffic.
Transportation Options
Getting to and from STS is straightforward. Rental cars from major agencies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis) are located conveniently on-site. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have designated pick-up zones just outside baggage claim. Additionally, the SMART Train station is a short taxi ride away, connecting travelers to broader Sonoma and Marin counties.
The Convenience of STS for Travelers
Santa Rosa Airport is the smart choice for anyone visiting Wine Country. By avoiding the congestion of San Francisco, you start your trip closer to the vineyards and redwoods. With the addition of Avelo and the upcoming Southwest service, STS is poised to remain the region’s premier travel hub.
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FAQs
What airlines fly into Santa Rosa, CA currently?
As of early 2026, Santa Rosa (STS) is served by Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Avelo Airlines. Southwest Airlines is scheduled to begin service in April 2026.
Does Southwest fly to Santa Rosa Airport?
Southwest Airlines has announced it will begin serving Santa Rosa (STS) starting in April 2026, with routes to Las Vegas, Denver, Burbank, and San Diego.
Are there international flights to Santa Rosa, CA?
No, there are currently no direct international flights to STS. Travelers typically connect through San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), or Denver (DEN) for international travel.
How far is the airport from downtown Santa Rosa?
Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport is located approximately 7 to 8 miles north of downtown Santa Rosa, which is about a 15-minute drive via US-101.