Asheville’s Airways: Your Guide to Flying In

So, you’re planning a trip to the gem of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina? Excellent choice! But first things first, how do you get there by air? The key is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). Here’s the lowdown:

Currently, the airlines that fly directly into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) are Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and United Airlines. These airlines connect Asheville to numerous destinations across the United States, offering both convenience and a gateway to the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of Western North Carolina.

Decoding Asheville’s Air Connections

Let’s delve a bit deeper into what each airline offers and what you can expect when flying into AVL.

Allegiant: The Budget-Friendly Option

Allegiant is known for its focus on leisure travelers and its often attractive, low-cost fares. However, it’s important to remember that their flight schedules can be limited, often only operating on certain days of the week. They also tend to fly into smaller, regional airports near major cities. If you’re flexible with your dates and willing to fly into a secondary airport, Allegiant can be a fantastic way to save some serious cash on your trip to Asheville. Keep an eye out for their deals!

American Airlines: A Network Giant

American Airlines provides a significant network connection to Asheville. They are a major player and therefore generally offer daily flights to their hubs, connecting you to a vast array of destinations worldwide. Flying American often means greater flexibility in terms of flight times and connecting options. Expect reliable service and a generally comfortable experience.

Delta Air Lines: The Atlanta Connection

Delta Air Lines, another major carrier, is particularly crucial for Asheville-bound travelers. They offer a significant number of daily flights to and from Atlanta (ATL), a massive Delta hub. This makes Delta an excellent choice for those connecting from international destinations or other cities not directly served by AVL. Their service is generally consistent and reliable.

JetBlue: The New Kid on the Block

JetBlue is the newest addition to Asheville’s roster. They are known for having modern fleets that cater to the comfort of passengers and they are now flying non-stop to Orlando and New York City.

United Airlines: The Windy City Link

United Airlines primarily connects Asheville to its hubs, offering access to its vast global network. Like American and Delta, choosing United provides access to a large number of destinations through connections. Expect generally reliable service and a standard flying experience.

Planning Your Flight: Factors to Consider

When choosing which airline to fly into Asheville, consider these factors:

• Price: Compare fares across airlines, remembering to factor in baggage fees, seat selection costs, and other potential add-ons.
• Schedule: Consider the convenience of flight times and layovers (if any). Direct flights are always preferable, but sometimes a connection is necessary to find the best price or schedule.
• Hub Airport: Think about the connecting airport if you have a layover. Is it easy to navigate? Do you have enough time between flights?
• Loyalty Programs: If you’re a member of an airline’s loyalty program, flying with that airline can help you earn miles and points.
• Baggage Allowance: Review the baggage allowance policies of each airline, especially if you plan to check luggage.
• Aircraft Type: While not always a major factor, some travelers prefer certain aircraft types over others.

Navigating Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

AVL is a relatively small airport, which makes it incredibly easy to navigate. Expect shorter security lines and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to larger, busier airports. The airport offers essential amenities like rental car services, food and beverage options, and a gift shop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Flying to Asheville

Here are some frequently asked questions about flying into Asheville Regional Airport to further assist in planning your trip:

1. What is the airport code for Asheville Regional Airport?

The airport code for Asheville Regional Airport is AVL.

2. Are there international flights directly to Asheville?

No, there are currently no direct international flights to Asheville. You will need to connect through a major U.S. hub airport, such as Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), or New York (JFK).

3. What ground transportation options are available at Asheville Regional Airport?

Ground transportation options at AVL include: rental cars (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty), taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft), and shuttle services. Public transportation is limited.

4. Is there parking available at Asheville Regional Airport?

Yes, AVL offers both short-term and long-term parking options. The airport has multiple parking lots close to the terminal, ensuring a convenient walk.

5. How early should I arrive at Asheville Regional Airport for my flight?

For domestic flights, it’s generally recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time, especially during peak travel seasons.

6. Are there hotels near Asheville Regional Airport?

Yes, there are several hotels located near AVL, offering convenience for early morning flights or late-night arrivals. Popular choices include the Hampton Inn & Suites Asheville Airport, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Asheville Airport, and Courtyard Asheville Airport.

7. Are there any restaurants or shops inside Asheville Regional Airport?

Yes, AVL has a selection of restaurants and shops. You can find places to grab a quick bite, sit down for a meal, or purchase souvenirs and travel essentials.

8. Does Asheville Regional Airport offer Wi-Fi?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal at AVL.

9. What is the best time of year to fly into Asheville?

The best time of year to fly into Asheville depends on your priorities. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery (fall foliage is spectacular!), but these are also peak seasons, so flights and accommodations may be more expensive. Summer can be hot and humid, but it’s a great time for outdoor activities. Winter is less crowded, but the weather can be unpredictable.

10. How far is Asheville Regional Airport from downtown Asheville?

Asheville Regional Airport is approximately 12-15 miles south of downtown Asheville. The drive typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

11. Are there any seasonal flights to Asheville?

Yes, some airlines may offer seasonal flights to Asheville, particularly during peak travel periods like summer and holidays. Always check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules.

12. How can I find the cheapest flights to Asheville?

To find the cheapest flights to Asheville, consider these tips:

• Be flexible with your travel dates. Flying on weekdays or during the off-season can often save you money.
• Book in advance. Generally, booking flights several weeks or months ahead of your travel date can result in lower fares.
• Use flight comparison websites. Tools like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner can help you compare prices across different airlines.
• Consider flying into alternative airports. While AVL is the most convenient option, flying into a nearby airport like Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) might be cheaper, although it will add to your ground transportation time.
• Sign up for email alerts. Many airlines and travel websites offer email alerts that notify you of price drops on flights to Asheville.
• Consider flying budget airlines.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re now well-equipped to plan your flight into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) with confidence. Get ready to experience the magic of Asheville!