Air travel in North Dakota serves as a vital lifeline for residents and visitors alike, connecting them to destinations across the country and beyond while playing a crucial role in facilitating mobility for business, leisure, and family visits. However, getting to and from the airport can often be a source of stress, whether it’s figuring out transportation, deciding where to park, or dealing with the discomfort of leaving your vehicle at the airport. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned flyer, knowing your transportation options can help ensure a smoother, more efficient journey.

For those flying out of Minot International Airport (MOT), located approximately 13 miles south of Minot Air Force Base, transportation options are key. If you don’t have a family member or friend available to give you a ride, parking at the airport or scheduling an airport shuttle are both excellent alternatives, each with its own set of benefits. Uncovered parking at Minot International Airport long-term and short-term lots are available anywhere from $12 to $14 per day, making it a convenient option for shorter trips but also exposes vehicles to inclement weather which might not be ideal during winter months. However, for longer travels, this can add up quickly, prompting many to explore other transportation options.

Although parking at the airport may work for some, it can be more convenient to get a ride and avoid parking altogether. One popular airport shuttle service is Ren’s Rides, operated by Ren Lorie, a resident of Minot AFB. Ren launched the service after recognizing a gap in transportation options for military members and their families on Minot AFB. He noticed frequent posts on Facebook from people needing rides to and from the airport, which inspired him to offer a solution. Ren is available for rides Monday through Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., and all day on weekends. His standard rate for a one-way trip to or from the airport is $35, though prices may increase in the future due to the danger of traveling in snowy condition and the increase interior snow cleaning required after each trip. Currently, he only provides rides to MOT but is considering expanding his route to Bismarck Municipal Airport if demand arises.

Brenna Coline, a past user of Ren’s Rides, shared her positive experience using the shuttle service when traveling home from MOT for the first time since arriving at Minot AFB. She explained, “Ren was recommended as someone offering rides to and from the airport, so I reached out since we didn’t want to leave our car at the airport for a week due to the cost. Ren was very friendly and accommodating. He took us to the airport at 5 a.m., and two days before our return, I contacted him to ask if he could pick us up at 1 a.m. from the airport, which wasn’t an issue at all.” Brenna also recalled that when they returned to Minot after their trip, heavy snowfall was coming down. Despite the weather, Ren safely picked them up and drove them to their residence.

For those willing to travel farther, Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS) and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) are alternative options. While both require a few hours of driving, they often offer lower fares and more flexible itineraries, making them worthwhile choices for budget-conscious travelers. Parking at BIS costs between $9 and $14 per day for short-term and long-term stays. Travelers heading to BIS can also choose from taxis, limousines, or buses for transportation.
One convenient option for reaching BIS is Jefferson Lines bus service which departs from Minot Transit Center at 201 1st St. SW, Minot, ND, 58701 and arrives at the bus depot at 3750 E Rosser Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, just 10 minutes from the BIS airport. The bus ride takes approximately two hours and operates Monday through Friday, offering both a morning and afternoon departure options. Reservations are required and can be made through the Jefferson Lines website. Tickets average $39 per person for a one-way trip, providing an affordable and hassle-free way to reach BIS without the need to drive.

For those traveling from Minot AFB to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), options such as Greyhound buses and Amtrak trains are available. Both provide budget-friendly alternatives but require travelers to arrange transportation from the bus depot or train station to MSP. For those driving to MSP, the airport offers both short-term and long-term on-site parking. Additionally, off-site parking companies, such as The Parking Spot or RightWay Parking, partner with nearby hotels to provide more affordable long-term parking. Many of these partnerships include complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport, offering a cost-effective and convenient solution.

Minot AFB members and their families have numerous options for air travel. Whether using shuttles like Ren’s Rides, buses like Jefferson Lines, or personal vehicles with parking solutions, travelers can find cost-effective and convenient methods to suit their needs. Planning ahead and exploring these options ensures smoother and more efficient trips from Minot International Airport, Bismarck Municipal Airport, or Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.