Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport: Your Guide to Airlines and Flights

The Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport (IWA), often playing second fiddle to its larger neighbor Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), is a gem in its own right, offering a more relaxed and often more affordable travel experience. So, let’s cut to the chase: currently, the primary airlines that fly into Phoenix Mesa Gateway are Allegiant Air and Avelo Airlines. These airlines focus on providing budget-friendly travel options, connecting Mesa, Arizona, to various destinations across the United States.

Diving Deeper into Gateway’s Airline Offerings

While the answer to the main question might seem simple, the story is richer than a mere listing of airlines. Understanding the types of routes, the historical context, and potential future developments provides a much more comprehensive picture.

Allegiant Air: Gateway’s Cornerstone Carrier

Allegiant Air is undoubtedly the powerhouse at Phoenix Mesa Gateway. They’ve built a significant hub here, focusing on leisure travelers seeking direct flights to smaller and mid-sized cities. Think about it: instead of connecting through a major hub like Dallas or Chicago, you can often find a direct flight from Mesa to a vacation destination. Allegiant’s strategy revolves around offering low base fares and then allowing passengers to customize their travel experience by adding on extras like checked baggage, seat selection, and priority boarding. Their frequent sales and promotions make them a favorite among budget-conscious travelers.

Avelo Airlines: The New Kid on the Block

Avelo Airlines, a relative newcomer to the airline industry, has also recognized the potential of Phoenix Mesa Gateway. While their presence isn’t as extensive as Allegiant’s, Avelo offers another avenue for low-cost travel, often focusing on underserved markets or offering competitive fares on routes already served by other carriers. Avelo’s emergence at Gateway provides travelers with more options and can potentially drive down overall airfares.

Why Choose Phoenix Mesa Gateway?

Beyond just the airlines that serve it, understanding the why behind choosing IWA is crucial. Consider these advantages:

• Smaller Size, Easier Navigation: Gateway is significantly smaller and less congested than Sky Harbor. This translates to shorter security lines, easier gate access, and a generally more relaxed airport experience.
• Parking Convenience: Parking at Gateway is typically cheaper and more convenient than at Sky Harbor. You’re likely to find parking closer to the terminal, reducing walking distances.
• Potential Cost Savings: Because of the types of airlines that operate at Gateway and the airport’s lower operating costs, you might find that airfares are generally lower than those offered at Sky Harbor, especially if you’re willing to travel with a budget carrier.
• Serving the East Valley: Gateway is strategically located in the East Valley, making it a convenient option for residents of Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, and surrounding areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Phoenix Mesa Gateway

Let’s address some of the common questions travelers have about Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport.

1. What is the airport code for Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

The airport code for Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport is IWA.

2. Is Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport the same as Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport?

No. Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport (IWA) is a separate airport from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Sky Harbor is the larger, more well-known airport located closer to downtown Phoenix, while Gateway is located in Mesa, in the East Valley.

3. What types of destinations does Allegiant Air fly to from Phoenix Mesa Gateway?

Allegiant Air flies to a variety of destinations from Phoenix Mesa Gateway, primarily focusing on leisure destinations. These can include cities in California, Oregon, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and other states throughout the US. Check the Allegiant Air website for the most up-to-date route map.

4. Does Southwest Airlines fly into Phoenix Mesa Gateway?

No, Southwest Airlines does not currently fly into Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. Southwest primarily operates out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).

5. Are there international flights from Phoenix Mesa Gateway?

Currently, scheduled commercial international flights are not offered at Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. The airport primarily focuses on domestic routes.

6. What ground transportation options are available at Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

Ground transportation options at Phoenix Mesa Gateway include: rental cars, ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft), taxis, and shuttle services. Public transportation options are limited.

7. Is there public transportation available to and from Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

Public transportation options to and from Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport are limited. Valley Metro provides bus service to the area, but it requires transfers and may not be the most convenient option for travelers with luggage.

8. What amenities are available at Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport offers essential amenities such as: restaurants, shops, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and baggage claim areas. The airport is smaller, so don’t expect the same range of amenities as a larger airport like Sky Harbor.

9. How far is Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport from downtown Phoenix?

Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport is approximately 30-40 miles east of downtown Phoenix. The drive can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

10. Are there hotels near Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

Yes, there are several hotels located near Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. These range from budget-friendly options to more upscale accommodations, catering to a variety of travelers.

11. How can I find the cheapest flights from Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

To find the cheapest flights from Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport, consider these strategies: be flexible with your travel dates, book in advance (or last minute, depending on the airline), sign up for airline email alerts, use flight comparison websites, and consider flying on less popular days (such as Tuesdays or Wednesdays).

12. What are the parking options and costs at Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport?

Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport offers several parking options, including: short-term, long-term, and economy parking. Parking costs vary depending on the duration and location. Check the airport’s website for the most up-to-date parking rates and availability.

In conclusion, while Allegiant Air and Avelo Airlines are the current mainstays at Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport, the airport’s value proposition extends beyond just the airlines themselves. It’s about convenience, affordability, and a more streamlined travel experience – a winning combination for many travelers in the Phoenix metropolitan area and beyond.