Short answer: Logan has far more nonstop flights and almost all the international ones, so it is usually the default. T.F. Green in Warwick, Rhode Island is smaller and often calmer, and it can make sense if you live south or southwest of Boston, find a better fare, or just want shorter lines.
We drive to both airports every week, and clients often ask which one we would choose. It depends on where you live and where you are going. Here is how we think about it.
The quick comparison
- Size and flights: Logan (BOS) is New England’s main airport, with many more nonstop domestic routes and nearly all international service in the region. T.F. Green (PVD) is much smaller, with a shorter list of destinations.
- Getting through the airport: T.F. Green is compact, so the walk from the curb to your gate is short and security lines are often shorter. At Logan, allow more time, especially at Terminals B and E at peak hours.
- Distance from Boston: Logan is a few miles from downtown. T.F. Green is about 60 miles away, usually 60 to 75 minutes by car outside rush hour.
- Fares: sometimes cheaper from one, sometimes from the other. It is worth checking both for every trip.
When Logan is the better choice
- You live in Boston, Cambridge, the North Shore or the inner suburbs. From Salem or Lynn, T.F. Green is a long way.
- You are flying internationally or need a nonstop that only Logan offers.
- You want the most flight options in case of delays or rebooking.
For Logan trips, see our Logan Airport transportation page and our guide on how early to leave for Logan.
When T.F. Green is worth a look
- You live south or southwest of Boston, such as Brockton, Plymouth, Bellingham or Milford, where the drive can be similar to Logan.
- The fare or the flight time is noticeably better.
- You prefer a smaller airport with less walking, which many families with young children and older travelers appreciate.
Getting to T.F. Green from Massachusetts
Most drives go down I-93 and I-95, or Route 24 and I-195 from the South Shore. Weekday afternoon traffic on I-95 near Providence can add time. A T.F. Green car service takes you door to door with a flat-rate quote, and we track your flight on the way home so your chauffeur is waiting when you land.
Our take
If you live north of Boston or in the city, fly from Logan. If you live south or southwest of Boston, check both airports every time; the closer airport is not always the cheaper or easier one. Either way, booking a car means you are not paying for a week of airport parking.
Frequently asked questions
How far is T.F. Green from Boston?
T.F. Green (PVD) in Warwick, Rhode Island is about 60 miles from downtown Boston, usually 60 to 75 minutes by car outside rush hour.
Is T.F. Green less busy than Logan?
Generally, yes. It is a much smaller airport, so walks are shorter and security lines are often shorter, though that varies by day and time.
Does T.F. Green have international flights?
It has far fewer than Logan. For most international trips, Logan is the practical choice.
Which airport is better from the South Shore?
From towns like Brockton, Plymouth or Duxbury, the drive to T.F. Green is often similar to the drive to Logan, so compare fares and flight times for your trip.
Not sure which airport makes more sense for your trip? Call or text (617) 701-7061 and we will tell you the typical drive time to each from your address. You can also book online.