Portland International Airport (PDX)

Getting Around

How to get to and from Portland International Airport — taxis, public transport, shuttles and car rental.

Transport Options at PDX

Portland International Airport is connected to Portland and the wider United States transport network by multiple ground transport options.

Rail & Metro

TriMet's MAX Red Line runs directly from the airport into downtown Portland, connecting through the Rose Quarter and Pioneer Courthouse Square; trains run roughly every 15 minutes and the ride downtown takes about 40 minutes.

Bus & Shuttle

TriMet local bus routes connect from the airport transit center for destinations off the MAX line, though most airport travelers heading downtown simply take the Red Line directly.

Taxi

Taxis queue at the curb outside baggage claim; a ride downtown takes about 20–25 minutes and typically runs $35–45 depending on traffic.

Rideshare

Uber and Lyft operate from a designated pickup area a short walk from baggage claim, generally cheaper than a metered taxi and widely used.

Car Rental

A large on-site rental car facility (a short walk from the terminal via a covered pedestrian bridge) hosts all major national brands — handy for trips into the Columbia River Gorge or wine country.

Insider tip

PDX is famous for its distinctive patterned carpet and generally relaxed, well-organized layout — the MAX Red Line right at the terminal makes it one of the easiest US airports to reach downtown without a car.

Transport routes, fares and operators change frequently. Verify current options on the official Portland International Airport website before travel.

Pre-Book Your Transfer

Skip the taxi queue. Book a private transfer from PDX to Portland in advance and have a driver waiting when you land.

Recommended · Airport Transfer
PDXPortland Transfer

Private and shared airport transfers — fixed price, no meter surprises. Driver meets you in arrivals.

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Car Rental at PDX

Exploring United States beyond Portland? Renting a car at the airport gives you maximum flexibility from the moment you land.

Recommended · Car Rental
Rent a Car at PDX

Compare rates from major and local car rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.

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Ground Transport Tips for PDX

Only use official taxi ranks or pre-booked apps at Portland International Airport. Avoid unofficial drivers approaching you in arrivals.
If a rail or metro connection exists, it is usually the fastest and most reliable option during rush hour.
Allow extra time for ground transport during peak hours. Portland city traffic can significantly extend journey times.
Download offline maps for Portland before landing — useful if your data connection is slow on arrival.
If travelling with heavy luggage, a private transfer or taxi is often more practical than public transport.
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