Aberdeen, Maryland, often recognized as the home of the Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), is a vibrant town nestled between Baltimore and Philadelphia. It serves as a crucial transit point for many, whether for military personnel, defense contractors, or visitors exploring the charm of Harford County.
This comprehensive guide will navigate you through Aberdeen’s key transportation arteries: its pivotal Amtrak railway connections and the realities of air travel to and from the area, clarifying common misunderstandings about “ABE.”
Aberdeen, MD: A Gateway Town
Before diving into transport, let’s briefly orient ourselves. Aberdeen is strategically located on the Interstate 95 corridor, making it easily accessible by road. Its direct Amtrak service provides a convenient, comfortable alternative, while its proximity to major regional airports connects it to the wider national and international air network.
Navigating Aberdeen by Rail: Amtrak
Aberdeen’s Amtrak station (ABN) is a vital stop on the Northeast Corridor, offering direct train services that connect the town to major cities along the East Coast. It’s a popular choice for commuters, business travelers, and those looking to avoid highway traffic.
Aberdeen Amtrak Station Details:
- Location: 18 East Bel Air Avenue, Aberdeen, MD 21001
- Services: Primarily served by the Northeast Regional line.
- Amenities: Waiting area, restrooms, ticket kiosks, limited parking.
Key Amtrak Routes from Aberdeen
The Northeast Regional line provides frequent service both northbound (towards New York and Boston) and southbound (towards Washington D.C. and Virginia). Here’s a look at some of the major destinations and approximate travel times:
Table 1: Key Amtrak Northeast Regional Stops from Aberdeen (Approximate Travel Times)
| Direction | Major City/Key Stop | Approx. Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southbound | Baltimore (BAL) | 25-35 minutes | Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, Sports Stadiums |
| BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport | 35-45 minutes | Direct connection to major airport | |
| Washington D.C. (WAS) | 1 hour 15 – 1 hour 30 minutes | National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, U.S. Capitol | |
| Alexandria, VA (ALX) | 1 hour 45 – 2 hours | Old Town charm, historic district | |
| Northbound | Wilmington, DE (WIL) | 30-45 minutes | Riverfront attractions, DuPont Mansions |
| Philadelphia, PA (PHL) | 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes | Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, vibrant food scene | |
| Trenton, NJ (TRN) | 1 hour 45 – 2 hours | State Capital, historic sites | |
| New York, NY (NYP) | 2 hours 45 – 3 hours | Broadway, Times Square, iconic landmarks |
Note: Travel times are estimates and can vary based on specific train schedule, traffic, and stops.
Taking Amtrak from Aberdeen offers a stress-free journey, often faster than driving through city traffic, especially to Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia.
Understanding “ABE” and Air Travel Options
This is where clarity is crucial! When people refer to “ABE” in the context of commercial flights, they are almost always referring to Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) in Allentown, Pennsylvania, not a public commercial airport in Aberdeen, Maryland.
Aberdeen’s Local Airfield: Phillips Army Airfield (KAPG)
Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) does have an airfield, Phillips Army Airfield (KAPG). However, this is a military airfield primarily used for U.S. Army operations, testing, and transport. It is not open for public commercial flights or general aviation without specific military authorization. Civilians cannot book flights directly to or from KAPG.
Where to Fly for Aberdeen, MD: Nearby Commercial Airports
For travelers flying commercially to or from Aberdeen, Maryland, you’ll need to utilize one of the major commercial airports in the surrounding region. Three primary airports serve the Aberdeen area, each offering various flight options and ground transportation connections.
Table 2: Major Commercial Airports Serving Aberdeen, MD
| Airport Code | Airport Name | Location | Approx. Drive Time to Aberdeen, MD | Ground Transportation Options to Aberdeen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BWI | Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport | Baltimore, MD | 45-60 minutes | Rental cars, taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), MARC train connection to Aberdeen (via Penn Line to Perryville, then local bus/taxi, or direct from BWI via Amtrak). |
| PHL | Philadelphia International Airport | Philadelphia, PA | 1 hour 15 – 1 hour 30 minutes | Rental cars, taxis, rideshares, Amtrak connection from 30th Street Station (via Airport Line train). |
| DCA | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport | Arlington, VA (near D.C.) | 1 hour 30 – 1 hour 45 minutes | Rental cars, taxis, rideshares, Metro and Amtrak connection (Metro to Union Station, then Amtrak to Aberdeen). |
Note: Drive times are estimates and can vary significantly with traffic, especially during peak hours.
Choosing the Best Airport:
- BWI is generally the most convenient for its proximity and direct Amtrak/MARC train connections that can get you close to Aberdeen or directly to the Aberdeen station.
- PHL offers a good alternative, especially if flights are more affordable or offer better routes for your origin/destination.
- DCA is a solid option, particularly if you’re also visiting Washington D.C. or find better flight deals there.
Getting Around Aberdeen
Once you arrive in Aberdeen, whether by train or from a nearby airport, you have several options for local transportation:
- Rental Cars: Available at all major airports and some local agencies in Aberdeen. Recommended for exploring the wider Harford County area or if you have appointments across APG.
- Taxis & Rideshares (Uber/Lyft): Readily available from the Amtrak station and within the town.
- Harford Transit LINK: Harford County’s public bus system offers routes within Aberdeen and connecting to surrounding areas. Check their schedules for specific routes and times.
Conclusion
Aberdeen, Maryland, is well-equipped to handle travelers, whether you’re arriving by the comfort of Amtrak’s Northeast Regional service or flying into one of the major regional airports. By understanding the distinction between commercial “ABE” (Allentown) and the military airfield at APG, and knowing your best commercial airport options, you can plan your journey to Aberdeen with confidence. Enjoy your visit to this important Maryland town!
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