Take the train to the plane?

I love to ride the light rail transit Hiawatha Line into and out of Minneapolis/St. Paul International as a lark. Why? Because the line dives deep underneath the sprawling complex of runways and serves one of the two terminals (Lindbergh Terminal) in a station fit for a New York City subway. Every time I ride between Lindbergh and the adjacent Humphrey Terminal, I am always in the company of people going to and from those friendly skies above. They range from pilots and flight attendants to passengers; all with a piece or two of luggage in tow as they hop on or off. I also can spot air travelers when riding the train in from downtown Minneapolis or up from the Mall of America.  

Those travelers using the train to get to the airport are smart. It does not cost as much to take the train to the airport. During rush hours, all you need to shell out is $2.25; $1.75 at all other times of day. Compare this to the Minneapolis/St. Paul International parking fee of $10.23 to $20.00 per day if you leave your car there! If you were traveling alone without much luggage, being dropped off by a friend or relative at a nearby Hiawatha (aka Blue Line) station and riding the train to the airport would be more economical.    

Minneapolis/St. Paul International is not alone when it comes to rail access. Airport Railways of the World provides a way of discerning which airports around the globe have rail links.

Riding the rails to the skies might not work if you are traveling with a large group of people due to how much baggage is being toted. However, it would be just the thing if you are flying alone or in a small group. Why deal with the hassle of long-term parking fees, or the stress of finding a clear spot at the terminal curb your friend can let you out at?

Photo by Richard H.