Getting to and from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) can often be a source of stress, from navigating traffic and expensive parking fees to dealing with unpredictable surge pricing from ride-sharing services. Fortunately, there’s a smarter, more convenient, and budget-friendly option: the Airport Express Bus, Route 142. This direct service from downtown Sacramento ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey to and from SMF.
Discover the Sacramento Airport Express Bus (Route 142)
Operated by SacRT, the Route 142 Airport Express is your dedicated public transportation link between downtown Sacramento and Sacramento International Airport. Forget the parking headaches and pricey rides – the Airport Express offers a reliable, eco-conscious, and economical alternative. Running every 60 minutes, seven days a week, this service is designed to connect you to your flight without the usual airport travel anxieties.
Route 142 Service Details: Schedule and Frequency
Planning your trip is easy with the consistent schedule of the Airport Express. Buses run every hour, providing frequent service from early morning until late evening.
- Regular Service: Enjoy departures every 60 minutes, daily.
- Operating Hours: The service runs from 5:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., accommodating most flight schedules.
- Downtown Departure: The first bus leaves the L & 5th Street Bus Stop in downtown Sacramento at 5:20 a.m., with subsequent departures at 20 minutes past each hour until the end of service.
- Airport Departure: The last bus departs from the Terminal B Bus Stop at 10:35 p.m.
- Direct Route: Benefit from direct service straight to both Terminals A and B at Sacramento International Airport.
Map showing downtown Sacramento Route 142 bus stops
Convenient Downtown Sacramento Stops for Airport Express
Accessibility is key, and the Route 142 Airport Express offers multiple convenient pick-up and drop-off locations in downtown Sacramento along L and J Streets:
Pick-Up Locations (L Street):
- L & 14th Street
- L & 11th Street
- L & 9th Street (easily accessible from light rail Blue and Gold lines)
- L & 6th Street
- L & 5th Street
Drop-Off Locations (J Street):
- J & 4th Street
- J & 6th Street
- J & 8th Street (near the Gold Line light rail)
- J & 10th Street (near the Blue Line light rail)
- J & 14th Street
For those connecting via light rail, these stops provide seamless transfers to the Airport Express, streamlining your journey from various parts of Sacramento.
Why Choose the Airport Express Bus for SMF?
Opting for the Airport Express comes with numerous advantages, making it a superior choice for Sacramento airport transportation:
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Ride aboard zero-emission, battery-powered buses, contributing to a greener planet and reducing your carbon footprint.
- Affordable Fares: At just $2.50 for a single ride ($1.25 for eligible discounted riders), and free for students in grades TK-12 with RydeFreeRT, the Airport Express is significantly more budget-friendly than driving or ride-sharing.
- Ultimate Convenience: Enjoy multiple downtown stops, ample luggage space onboard, and complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected or relax before your flight.
- Easy Transfers: Take advantage of free transfers within 90 minutes to or from SacRT bus and light rail services when using a Connect Card or the ZipPass Mobile App, making your overall journey smoother and more integrated.
Payment and Light Rail Connections for Seamless Travel
Paying for your ride is straightforward with several options available:
- Cash: Exact fare is accepted on board for quick and easy payment.
- ZipPass Mobile App: Purchase and manage your fares digitally via the ZipPass Mobile App, available on the App Store and Google Play.
- RydeFreeRT Pass: Students in grades TK-12 can ride for free using the RydeFreeRT Pass.
Connecting from Light Rail to the Airport Express:
- Gold Line (Folsom/Rancho Cordova): Get off at 8th & Capitol Station and transfer to the Airport Express at L & 9th Street.
- Blue Line (South Sacramento): Disembark at 8th & Capitol Station, and board the Airport Express at L & 9th Street.
- Blue Line (North Sacramento): Exit at 10th & K Station, and catch the Airport Express at L & 11th Street.
Connecting from the Airport Express to Light Rail:
- Gold Line: From the Airport Express, exit at J & 8th Street and walk to the 7th & I/County Center Station for the Gold Line.
- Blue Line (South Sacramento): Exit at J & 10th Street and walk to the 10th & K Station for the Blue Line towards South Sacramento.
- Blue Line (North Sacramento): Get off at J & 8th Street and walk to the 9th & K Station to connect to the Blue Line towards North Sacramento.
For a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible option for airport transportation in Sacramento, the Airport Express Bus (Route 142) is your ideal travel solution. Say goodbye to airport parking stress and hello to a smooth, easy journey.
Map of Sacramento Airport Express Route 142 stops and light rail connections
For the complete Route 142 schedule, please visit this link.
