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So, You’re Dreaming of Paris? Which Airlines Can Fly You There from the US?

Planning a trip to the City of Lights? Excellent choice! Paris, with its iconic landmarks, rich history, and delectable cuisine, is a perennial favorite for travelers. But before you can sip café au lait at a Parisian bistro, you need to get there. So, which airlines offer direct flights to Paris from the US? The answer is quite a few, offering a range of options to suit your budget and travel preferences. Major players include: Air France, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Norse Atlantic Airways, JetBlue Airways, and French bee. These airlines offer service from various US cities to Paris’s main airport, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), and sometimes Orly Airport (ORY).

Diving Deeper: The Major Airlines and Their Routes

Let’s take a closer look at each of these airlines and the routes they typically operate. Keep in mind that schedules can change based on the season and demand, so it’s always best to check directly with the airline for the most up-to-date information.

Air France: The Flag Carrier’s Extensive Network

As the French flag carrier, Air France boasts the most comprehensive network between the US and Paris. They operate numerous daily flights from major US hubs, including:

New York (JFK): Multiple daily flights to CDG.
Los Angeles (LAX): Direct flights to CDG.
San Francisco (SFO): Direct flights to CDG.
Atlanta (ATL): Direct flights to CDG.
Washington D.C. (IAD): Direct flights to CDG.
Boston (BOS): Direct flights to CDG.
Chicago (ORD): Direct flights to CDG.
Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW): Direct flights to CDG.
Houston (IAH): Direct flights to CDG.
Miami (MIA): Direct flights to CDG.

Air France often offers a range of cabin classes, from economy to La Première (first class), providing options for different budgets and comfort levels. Their codeshare agreement with Delta also expands your choices.

Delta Air Lines: Partnering for More Options

Delta Air Lines, in partnership with Air France, offers a significant number of flights to Paris. You can expect direct flights from:

New York (JFK): Multiple daily flights to CDG.
Atlanta (ATL): Direct flights to CDG.
Detroit (DTW): Direct flights to CDG.
Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP): Direct flights to CDG.
Salt Lake City (SLC): Direct flights to CDG.
Cincinnati (CVG): Seasonal direct flights to CDG.

The Delta-Air France partnership allows for seamless connections and shared frequent flyer benefits. This can be a major advantage if you’re already loyal to one of these airlines.

United Airlines: Connecting Major US Cities

United Airlines also provides a solid selection of direct flights to Paris, particularly from its hub cities:

Newark (EWR): Multiple daily flights to CDG.
Washington D.C. (IAD): Direct flights to CDG.
Chicago (ORD): Direct flights to CDG.
San Francisco (SFO): Direct flights to CDG.
Denver (DEN): Direct flights to CDG.
Houston (IAH): Direct flights to CDG.

United often has competitive fares, especially if you book in advance or are flexible with your travel dates.

American Airlines: A Solid Choice for Oneworld Members

American Airlines offers a reliable service to Paris, appealing to members of the Oneworld alliance. Look for direct flights from:

Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW): Direct flights to CDG.
Philadelphia (PHL): Direct flights to CDG.
Charlotte (CLT): Direct flights to CDG.
New York (JFK): Direct flights to CDG.

American Airlines provides a comfortable travel experience and convenient connections within its extensive network.

Norse Atlantic Airways: Budget-Friendly Options

Norse Atlantic Airways is a newer player focusing on providing more affordable transatlantic flights. This is a budget airline, so expect to pay extra for things like baggage and meals. They typically fly from:

New York (JFK): Direct flights to CDG.
Los Angeles (LAX): Direct flights to CDG.
Fort Lauderdale (FLL): Direct flights to CDG.

If you’re willing to forgo some amenities to save money, Norse Atlantic Airways can be a great option.

JetBlue Airways: The Disruptor

JetBlue Airways has expanded its transatlantic service, including flights to Paris, shaking up the market with its competitive pricing and customer-focused approach. They primarily fly from:

New York (JFK): Direct flights to CDG.
Boston (BOS): Direct flights to CDG.

Known for its comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi, JetBlue offers a compelling alternative to traditional airlines.

French bee: Another Budget-Conscious Choice

Similar to Norse Atlantic, French bee is a low-cost airline offering affordable flights to Paris. Their main US departure point is:

New York (JFK): Direct flights to ORY.
San Francisco (SFO): Direct flights to ORY.
Los Angeles (LAX): Direct flights to ORY.
Miami (MIA): Direct flights to ORY.

Keep in mind that French bee flights often arrive at Orly Airport (ORY), which is smaller and further from central Paris than Charles de Gaulle (CDG).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Paris airport should I fly into?

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the larger and more common airport for international flights, offering more connections and transportation options to the city center. Orly Airport (ORY) is smaller and located further south. Consider transportation costs and convenience when choosing your arrival airport.

2. How far in advance should I book my flights to Paris?

Aim to book your flights 2-3 months in advance for the best deals, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (summer, holidays).

3. What is the cheapest time of year to fly to Paris?

The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) typically offer lower fares and fewer crowds. Avoid traveling during the summer and major holidays if you’re on a budget.

4. Are there any seasonal flights to Paris?

Yes, some airlines offer seasonal flights to Paris, particularly from smaller US cities. These flights typically operate during the summer months.

5. What documents do I need to fly to Paris?

You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and, for US citizens, a return ticket. For stays longer than 90 days, you may need a visa. Always check the latest travel requirements with the French embassy or consulate.

6. What is the average flight time from the US to Paris?

The flight time from the US to Paris ranges from 7 to 11 hours, depending on your departure city and the specific route.

7. What is the best way to find cheap flights to Paris?

Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner to compare prices from different airlines. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying on weekdays to save money.

8. Can I use frequent flyer miles to book a flight to Paris?

Yes, most major airlines allow you to use frequent flyer miles to book flights to Paris. Check with your airline’s frequent flyer program for availability and redemption rates.

9. Are there any direct flights to Paris from smaller US cities?

Direct flights from smaller US cities are less common, but some airlines may offer seasonal flights or connecting flights through major hubs.

10. What are the baggage allowance rules for flights to Paris?

Baggage allowance rules vary depending on the airline and your ticket class. Check the airline’s website for specific details. Budget airlines often charge extra for checked baggage.

11. Do I need to purchase travel insurance for my trip to Paris?

While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended to protect yourself against unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.

12. What is the best way to get from the airport to the city center in Paris?

From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), you can take the RER B train, the Roissybus, or a taxi/Uber to the city center. From Orly Airport (ORY), you can take the Orlybus, the RER B train (with a connecting train), or a taxi/Uber. The RER B train is generally the most affordable and efficient option.

Planning your trip to Paris should be an exciting experience. By understanding which airlines fly there and considering these FAQs, you’ll be well on your way to a seamless and unforgettable journey!