The Ultimate Guide to Airlines Flying to Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) isn’t just the gateway to the Steel City; it’s a crucial hub connecting Western Pennsylvania to destinations across the globe. So, who exactly is responsible for keeping Pittsburgh connected? The answer is a diverse mix of airlines, each offering unique routes, services, and price points.

The core airlines currently flying to Pittsburgh International Airport include:

• Allegiant Air: A budget-friendly option focusing on leisure destinations.
• American Airlines: A major carrier offering extensive domestic and international connections.
• Breeze Airways: A newer airline known for its focus on underserved markets and point-to-point routes.
• British Airways: Provides direct transatlantic service to London.
• Delta Air Lines: Another major carrier with a strong network and various cabin options.
• Frontier Airlines: Another ultra-low-cost carrier focusing on price-sensitive travelers.
• JetBlue Airways: Known for its in-flight entertainment and focus on customer service.
• Southwest Airlines: Famous for its flexible baggage policies and unique boarding process.
• Spirit Airlines: An ultra-low-cost carrier, providing no-frills travel options.
• Sun Country Airlines: Primarily focuses on leisure routes and seasonal destinations.
• United Airlines: A major carrier with a global network and a wide range of services.
• Vacation Express: A charter airline offering vacation packages to select destinations, particularly in Mexico and the Caribbean.
• Southern Airways Express: Provides regional connectivity, serving smaller communities.

This list covers the major players, but it’s always wise to check directly with the airport or individual airline websites for the most up-to-date information. Airline schedules and routes are subject to change based on demand, seasonality, and various other factors. Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions to provide a deeper understanding of air travel to and from Pittsburgh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Flights to Pittsburgh

Q1: Which airlines offer direct flights from Pittsburgh to Europe?

Currently, British Airways is the primary airline offering direct, non-stop service from Pittsburgh to Europe. They typically operate flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR). This service is a major boon for both business and leisure travelers, eliminating the need for connecting flights and significantly reducing travel time. Keep an eye out for potential seasonal or temporary services from other airlines as well.

Q2: What are the cheapest airlines to fly into or out of Pittsburgh?

The title of “cheapest” airline is always a moving target, but consistently, Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines are known for their ultra-low-cost fares. However, remember to factor in additional costs like baggage fees, seat selection, and even printing your boarding pass at the airport, which can quickly inflate the total price. Weigh these additional costs against the base fare when making your decision.

Q3: Does Southwest Airlines fly to Pittsburgh? If so, what are their most popular routes?

Yes, Southwest Airlines does indeed fly to Pittsburgh. Some of their most popular routes from PIT include destinations like Chicago (Midway), Denver, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale. Southwest is known for its two free checked bags policy and no change fees, making it a popular choice for many travelers. Always check their website for current routes and special deals.

Q4: Which airlines offer the most flights from Pittsburgh daily?

The airlines offering the highest frequency of flights from Pittsburgh tend to be the major carriers: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. These airlines operate hubs across the country and use Pittsburgh as a connecting point, resulting in a higher number of daily departures and arrivals. Their schedules offer numerous options throughout the day, providing flexibility for travelers.

Q5: Are there any new airlines planning to start service to Pittsburgh in the near future?

While it’s challenging to predict future airline routes with absolute certainty, Pittsburgh International Airport is actively working to attract new carriers and expand its service offerings. Keep an eye on press releases from the airport and announcements from various airlines to stay informed about potential new routes and service additions. Also, regularly checking airline news websites and travel blogs will provide insights into potential expansions. Breeze Airways is a relative newcomer that has already made a significant impact.

Q6: Which airlines offer flights from Pittsburgh to Florida?

Several airlines serve the Pittsburgh to Florida market, catering to both vacationers and those seeking warmer climates. You can find flights to various Florida destinations on Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines. Popular Florida destinations from Pittsburgh include Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.

Q7: What are the best airlines for business travelers flying out of Pittsburgh?

For business travelers, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines typically offer the best options due to their extensive networks, frequent flyer programs, and premium cabin amenities like business class and first class. These airlines also tend to have more reliable schedules and offer services like airport lounges and priority boarding.

Q8: Which airlines offer the most legroom in economy class on flights from Pittsburgh?

Legroom can vary significantly between airlines and even within different aircraft configurations of the same airline. Generally, JetBlue is known for offering more generous legroom in economy class compared to many other carriers. It’s always a good idea to check SeatGuru or similar websites before booking to compare legroom dimensions on specific flights.

Q9: Does Pittsburgh International Airport have international flights besides London?

While British Airways offers the only regularly scheduled direct service to Europe, other airlines provide international connections through their hubs. For example, you can fly to destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and beyond by connecting through cities like Chicago, Atlanta, New York, or Washington D.C. Some airlines may also offer seasonal charter flights to international destinations. Vacation Express is a great option for direct vacation packages to select destinations, especially in Mexico and the Caribbean.

Q10: How can I find the best deals on flights to and from Pittsburgh?

Finding the best flight deals requires a bit of research and flexibility. 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 or during off-peak seasons. Sign up for email alerts from airlines and travel websites to receive notifications about fare sales. Also, consider flying into or out of alternative airports if they offer significantly cheaper fares, but factor in the cost and inconvenience of getting to/from those airports.

Q11: What are the major hubs that Pittsburgh connects to via direct flights?

Pittsburgh International Airport offers direct flights to a variety of major airline hubs, providing connections to destinations worldwide. Key hubs include Chicago (ORD and MDW), Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York (JFK and EWR), Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. (IAD and DCA). Flying through these hubs allows you to access a vast network of domestic and international flights.

Q12: How has the airline landscape at Pittsburgh International Airport changed in recent years?

The airline landscape at Pittsburgh International Airport has been evolving. The airport has actively pursued attracting low-cost carriers to provide more affordable options for travelers. The arrival and expansion of Breeze Airways has been a notable development, offering more point-to-point routes and competition on existing routes. The airport has also invested in infrastructure improvements to accommodate growth and enhance the passenger experience. Keep an eye on airport news for the latest developments and route announcements.