Flying High: Your Guide to Airlines Serving Mesa, Arizona

Let’s get straight to the point: Mesa, Arizona is primarily served by Allegiant Air and Southwest Airlines through Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA). While Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the larger and more well-known airport in the area, Gateway Airport offers a targeted selection of airlines focusing on budget-friendly travel, particularly within the United States and some international destinations. This concentration on value makes Gateway a strategic choice for many travelers seeking affordable flight options.

Decoding Mesa’s Airspace: Understanding Your Airline Choices

While the answer above is concise, it’s important to unpack the specifics of each airline and what they offer to fully understand your flight possibilities into Mesa. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of the airlines operating at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.

Allegiant Air: The Ultra-Low-Cost Champion

Allegiant Air is a major player at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. As an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC), Allegiant focuses on providing rock-bottom base fares while charging extra for everything else – checked bags, seat selection, even carry-ons in some instances. This allows them to offer incredibly attractive prices, especially for leisure travelers seeking direct flights to smaller and mid-sized cities across the United States.

• Network Focus: Allegiant’s strength lies in connecting Mesa to underserved markets, often smaller cities with limited direct flight options. Think secondary airports and vacation destinations that might otherwise require connecting flights.
• Things to Consider: Before booking, carefully review Allegiant’s fee structure. What looks like a fantastic deal initially can quickly inflate once you add necessary extras. Also, be aware that Allegiant often operates flights on a limited schedule (e.g., only a few days per week) to specific destinations.
• Target Audience: Budget-conscious travelers, those seeking direct flights to smaller cities, and passengers comfortable with a no-frills flying experience.

Southwest Airlines: The Value-Oriented Giant

Southwest Airlines also maintains a significant presence at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. While not strictly an ultra-low-cost carrier, Southwest is renowned for its customer-friendly policies, including two free checked bags and no change fees. This makes them a popular choice for those seeking value and flexibility.

• Network Focus: Southwest offers a broader range of destinations compared to Allegiant, including major cities and popular vacation spots throughout the United States. They provide a mix of direct flights and connecting options through their extensive network.
• Things to Consider: Southwest’s open seating policy can be a double-edged sword. While you get to choose your seat upon boarding, it also means you need to check in early to secure a desirable spot. Their “Wanna Get Away” fares are often competitive but can be restrictive in terms of changes and cancellations.
• Target Audience: Travelers seeking a balance between price and service, those who value free checked bags and flexibility, and passengers comfortable with open seating.

Connecting Through Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)

While no other airlines operate directly from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA), it’s crucial to acknowledge the presence of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), located approximately 30 minutes away. All major airlines, including American, Delta, United, Alaska, and more, operate from Sky Harbor.

If you’re unable to find a suitable direct flight into Gateway Airport, consider flying into Sky Harbor and then driving, taking a shuttle, or using ride-sharing services to reach Mesa. This option provides access to a far wider range of airlines, destinations, and flight schedules.

Decoding Mesa’s Airspace: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate your travel plans to Mesa, Arizona.

1. What is the closest major airport to Mesa, Arizona?

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the closest major airport to Mesa, Arizona. It’s significantly larger and offers a greater selection of airlines and destinations compared to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA).

2. Is Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport a good alternative to Sky Harbor?

Yes, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) can be a great alternative if you are looking for budget-friendly flights, especially if you are flying Allegiant or Southwest. Consider factors like destination availability, baggage fees, and flight schedules when making your decision.

3. How far is Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport from downtown Mesa?

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is approximately 15-20 miles southeast of downtown Mesa, depending on the specific route and traffic conditions.

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

Ground transportation options at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport include:

• Rental Cars: Several major rental car companies operate at the airport.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are readily available.
• Taxis: Taxi service is available, but it’s often more expensive than ride-sharing.
• Shuttles: Several shuttle services provide transportation to various locations in the Phoenix metro area.
• Public Transportation: Limited public transportation options are available, but they may require transfers and longer travel times.

5. Are there any international flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport?

Yes, Allegiant sometimes offers international flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, primarily to destinations in Mexico. However, these routes are subject to change and are less frequent than domestic flights. Always check the current flight schedules.

6. Which airlines offer the most direct flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport?

Allegiant Air and Southwest Airlines are the primary providers of direct flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Allegiant focuses on smaller and mid-sized cities, while Southwest offers a mix of destinations, including major cities and popular vacation spots.

7. How can I find the cheapest flights to Mesa, Arizona?

To find the cheapest flights to Mesa, consider these strategies:

• Be Flexible with Dates: Use flexible date search tools to identify the lowest fares.
• Consider Both Airports: Compare prices for both Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway (AZA).
• Book in Advance: Booking well in advance can often secure lower fares.
• Sign Up for Email Alerts: Subscribe to airline email lists to receive notifications about sales and special offers.
• Use Budget Airlines: Explore the options offered by Allegiant Air, but carefully review their fee structure.

8. Does Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport have TSA PreCheck?

Yes, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport does offer TSA PreCheck. This can significantly expedite the security screening process for eligible travelers.

9. Are there any hotels located near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport?

Yes, there are several hotels located near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, offering convenient accommodation options for travelers. These include a range of hotels that cater to various budgets and preferences.

10. What are the advantages of flying into Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport versus Sky Harbor?

The main advantages of flying into Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport are:

• Potentially Lower Fares: Allegiant Air and Southwest Airlines often offer more competitive fares.
• Less Crowded: Gateway Airport is typically less crowded than Sky Harbor, resulting in a more relaxed travel experience.
• Easier Navigation: The smaller size of Gateway Airport makes it easier to navigate.

11. What types of amenities are available at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport?

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport offers a range of amenities, including:

• Restaurants and Food Vendors: A selection of restaurants and food vendors offering various dining options.
• Shops and Newsstands: Shops selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and reading materials.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
• Charging Stations: Charging stations for electronic devices.
• Rental Car Services: On-site rental car agencies.
• ATM Machines: ATM machines for accessing cash.

12. What is the best time of year to visit Mesa, Arizona?

The best time to visit Mesa, Arizona is typically during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with warm temperatures and sunny skies. The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, while the winter months (December-February) can be cooler, but still generally mild.

By understanding the nuances of airline options and airport characteristics, you can make informed decisions to ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey to Mesa, Arizona. Happy travels!