PennStateMark

How much time should I allow between the scheduled arrival time of a train at the BWI Amtrak station and the scheduled departure time of a flight out of BWI? How often does the shuttle to the terminal run and how long does the trip take? Thanks in advance!

MikeT

Shuttle comes every 10-15 minutes. Ride takes 5-10 minutes.

I usually add 30-45 minutes, just in case the train is running a little late.

PennStateMark

So, ideally, I should allow at least two hours between my arrival at the rail station and my flight departure?

AnnMarie_C

Two hours is what I allow for, PSM--once in a blue I get lucky and the shuttle bus is waiting at the train station but more often than not I've had to wait 10-15 minutes--once you're on the bus it is a fast trip to the terminal.

(Last month when I got off the train there were 2 buses waiting... that has never happened!)

MikeT

Mark, I'd say that's probably right. If it's only 1.5 hours, you will likely be fine. Depends on how much anxiety you find palatable when catching a plane. <g>

PennStateMark

OK, thanks all. A couple of additional questions - does the MARC train arrive at the same station? And, if I'm departing from Union Station, does it make a difference whether I take Amtrak or MARC, assuming it does arrive at the same station?

AnnMarie_C

Yes, the MARC train arrives at the same (BWI) station--I've taken both Amtrak and MARC to / from Union at BWI--it doesn't matter although MARC will be less expensive and includes stops so figure that in to your time. Check schedules to see what works best for you and know that the MARC does not operate during the weekend.

On MARC, you'll take the Penn Line.

http://www.mtamaryland.com/services/...mMaps/penn.cfm

MikeT

MARC goes to the same station. Amtrak is a few minutes faster, but more expensive. Amtrak will make one stop between Union Station and BWI (at New Carrolton). MARC will make five or six stops because it is a commuter train.

Often, I will just look at the schedule when I arrive at the station and figure out which is the next train and which one will get me there sooner. I can also assess whether there are any delays.

You can buy both MARC and AMTRAK tickets from kiosks at the stataion.