Susan Aksu June 17, 2021

There’s a new airline in town that SoCal residents that have missing out on Northern California adventures are going to rejoice over. Avelo Airlines is a new budget airline that is offering cheap flights direct from Hollywood/Burbank (BUR) , California to Arcata(ACV), turning adventure-seekers’ 11-12 hour road trips into an easy hour an a half flight. And you don’t even have to deal with LAX!

Arcata and Humboldt County are generally isolated, which really does contribute to its off-the-beaten path appeal, but for students at Humboldt State University, folks that would like to visit the redwoods, and residents of Humboldt who would like to get out of town once in awhile, this serves as an inexpensive and extremely convenient solution.

The main Humboldt County airport is small and in the past had somewhat regular service with Horizon Air (Alaska) and United Airlines to Los Angeles and San Francisco, but because it wasn’t profitable enough, Horizon ended its Arcata services one month before HSU seniors were set to graduate, cancelling flights and leaving families of students with limited alternatives to make it to graduation. It was truly awful.

Well, it only took about 11 years, but, Avelo officially began service on April 28 with non-stop flights from Hollywood/Burbank Airport to Arcata with promotional fares of $20 each way! While they do charge for carry-ons, personal items like a small backpack or purse are free, but to check in your first bag that weighs 50 lbs. (22 kg) it’s only $10, a great deal. You’re finally able to travel to beautiful Humboldt County without spending so much time on the road. I used to be able to do the drive twice in a weekend in my college days, but as I get older it gets harder to do justify making the trip for a 3-4 day weekend.

Fern Canyon

Avelo also services other destinations including, all with direct flights to/from Hollywood Burbank:

If you’re looking for more information about the airline, I recommend checking out their website because it’s extremely details and easy to navigate. However, here are a few FYI points:

  • Are pets allowed on Avelo flights? Yes! Small cats and dogs in carriers that can be stowed under the seat in front of you for $95. The containers cannot be larger than 14″ x 9″ x 9.5″. Also, Avelo does not require a health certificate or any other documentation from the Customer’s veterinarian for pets to travel.
  • Is it free to change a flight? Yes! It’s free, but if there is a price difference, you would need to pay that.
  • Any military Perks? Customers in the military traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders may check two Checked Bags for free, and not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges.
  • Need to contact Avelo? Here’s the phone number and email: support@aveloair.com (346) 616-9500

Now that you’re ready to regularly visit Humboldt County, here are a few articles I think you’ll find helpful to plan out your visit:

  1. Finnish Saunas under the stars and redwood trees at Cafe Mokka
  2. Hiking and Exploring Fern Canyon
  3. Humboldt County Oyster Festival
  4. Best Swimming Holes in Humboldt County

Have you been to Humboldt? Are you ready to book a flight? Let me know in the comments!