Buchanan Field

Buchanan Field is Contra Costa County's general aviation airport, making it the practical choice for passengers heading to Walnut Creek, Danville, Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, or central Concord. It sits at 26 feet elevation with a single primary runway of about 5,000 feet, which accommodates most light jets and turboprops comfortably. Heavy cabin aircraft may need to consider weight restrictions depending on conditions.

The airport has a control tower with limited operating hours, so after-hours arrivals require prior coordination. Noise abatement procedures are in effect for late-night and early-morning operations, and Contra Costa County takes enforcement seriously. If you're planning a late departure or early arrival, confirm with your operator well in advance. Unlike the Bay Area's larger reliever airports, Buchanan Field sees lower traffic volume, which means faster ground handling and no slot requirements.

Walnut Creek is roughly 5 miles and 10 minutes from the airport. San Francisco is about 35 miles via I-680 and the Bay Bridge, typically 45 to 60 minutes depending on Bay Bridge traffic. Oakland is about 20 miles and 25 to 35 minutes. Napa Valley wine country is around 45 miles to the north, about an hour by car. The Concord BART station is approximately 3 miles away, offering rail access to San Francisco and Oakland for passengers traveling without a car service.