Soaring Southern Skies: Which Airlines Fly to Savannah?

Savannah, Georgia, a city steeped in history and charm, beckons travelers with its moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, and delectable Southern cuisine. But before you can sip sweet tea on River Street, you need to get there! So, let’s cut to the chase: Which airlines fly to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)? You’ll find a robust selection ready to whisk you away to the Hostess City of the South, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Allegiant Air, and Frontier Airlines.

Savannah’s airport boasts a surprisingly diverse offering for a city of its size, proving its growing popularity as a tourist destination and a thriving business hub. Each airline brings something unique to the table, from premium cabin experiences to budget-friendly options. Let’s dive deeper into what each carrier offers.

Unpacking the Savannah Airline Landscape

Knowing which airlines fly to Savannah is just the first step. Understanding what they offer is crucial for planning your perfect trip.

American Airlines: Legacy Carrier Connectivity

American Airlines provides a solid presence in Savannah, connecting the city primarily to its major hubs, such as Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Philadelphia (PHL). This opens up a world of onward connections, making Savannah accessible from virtually anywhere in the world via American’s extensive network. Expect a range of fare classes, from basic economy to premium cabin options, catering to different budgets and travel preferences. Look for potential seasonal variations in flight frequency depending on demand.

Delta Air Lines: Atlanta’s Influence

Unsurprisingly, Delta Air Lines boasts a significant presence in Savannah, given the airline’s mega-hub in Atlanta (ATL). Delta offers multiple daily flights to Atlanta, providing seamless connections to hundreds of destinations worldwide. Delta also provides direct services to cities such as New York (JFK, LGA) and Boston (BOS). With Delta, you’ll find various cabin classes, including Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Delta Comfort+, First Class, and Delta One (on select long-haul flights connecting through Atlanta). Delta offers a reliable and comfortable travel experience.

United Airlines: Midwest and Beyond

United Airlines connects Savannah to its key hubs, primarily Chicago (ORD), Washington Dulles (IAD), and Newark (EWR). This allows travelers from the Midwest and Northeast regions to easily access Savannah. United offers a range of fare classes, from Basic Economy to United Polaris business class (on connecting long-haul flights), catering to diverse travel needs. Their network provides extensive international connectivity through these hubs.

JetBlue: A Focus on Comfort and Service

JetBlue is a popular choice for its focus on passenger comfort and customer service. JetBlue usually flies to Savannah from New York (JFK), offering a comfortable travel experience with free Wi-Fi, complimentary snacks, and ample legroom, even in its economy class. This is a great option for those prioritizing a more enjoyable in-flight experience.

Allegiant Air: The Budget-Friendly Option

Allegiant Air focuses on providing ultra-low-cost fares, often serving smaller regional airports with direct flights to Savannah. Their routes vary, but they often include destinations in the Midwest and Florida. Remember to factor in potential extra charges for baggage, seat selection, and other amenities when comparing Allegiant’s fares to other airlines. Allegiant’s routes are often seasonal, so check their schedule carefully.

Frontier Airlines: Another Low-Cost Contender

Frontier Airlines is another budget airline that occasionally offers service to Savannah, with routes that change based on demand. Keep an eye on their website for promotional fares and potential new routes connecting Savannah to various destinations. Like Allegiant, be aware of extra fees for baggage and seat assignments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flying to Savannah

Let’s address some common questions travelers have about flying into SAV.

1. What is the closest major airport to Savannah?

The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest major airport to Savannah. It’s located just a short drive (approximately 20 minutes) from the historic downtown area. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) in Florida is an alternative, located about two hours away.

2. Are there direct international flights to Savannah?

Currently, there are no direct international flights to Savannah. Passengers traveling from international destinations will need to connect through one of the major hubs served by the airlines operating at SAV, such as Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), or New York (JFK).

3. What is the best time of year to fly to Savannah for the lowest fares?

Generally, the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer the best combination of pleasant weather and potentially lower fares. Avoiding peak travel periods like summer (June-August) and major holidays will likely result in better deals. Booking in advance is crucial.

4. How far in advance should I book my flight to Savannah?

Aim to book your flight at least 2-3 months in advance for the best chance of securing favorable fares, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Last-minute bookings are typically more expensive.

5. Does Savannah Airport have good ground transportation options?

Yes, Savannah Airport offers a range of ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft), and shuttle services. Public transportation is also available via the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) bus system, although it is less convenient for reaching downtown directly.

6. Are there hotels near Savannah Airport?

Yes, there are several hotels located near Savannah Airport, offering convenient options for travelers with early morning or late-night flights. These hotels range from budget-friendly to more upscale accommodations. Consider using hotel search engines to find the best deals.

7. Does Savannah Airport have TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?

Yes, Savannah Airport participates in the TSA PreCheck program. Having TSA PreCheck can significantly expedite your security screening process. While CLEAR lanes are not consistently available, it is best to check the TSA and CLEAR websites closer to the date of travel.

8. What are some things to do near Savannah Airport while waiting for a flight?

If you have some time to spare before your flight, consider visiting the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, located a short drive from the airport. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history of the Eighth Air Force during World War II.

9. Are there any pet-friendly airlines that fly to Savannah?

Most major airlines that fly to Savannah, including American, Delta, United, and JetBlue, allow pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, subject to certain restrictions and fees. Always check the specific airline’s pet policy before booking your flight.

10. What are the baggage fees like for airlines flying to Savannah?

Baggage fees vary considerably depending on the airline, fare class, and frequent flyer status. Low-cost carriers like Allegiant and Frontier typically charge extra for all checked bags and even some carry-on bags. Legacy carriers like American, Delta, and United may offer free checked bags for certain fare classes or frequent flyers. Always check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date baggage fee information.

11. How does Savannah Airport handle flight delays and cancellations?

Like all airports, Savannah Airport is subject to flight delays and cancellations due to weather, air traffic control issues, or other unforeseen circumstances. Airlines typically have contingency plans in place to assist passengers affected by disruptions, such as rebooking on the next available flight or providing meal vouchers. It’s always a good idea to check your flight status before heading to the airport and to have travel insurance that covers potential disruptions.

12. Does Savannah Airport offer parking facilities?

Yes, Savannah Airport offers a variety of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and economy parking. Rates vary depending on the duration of your stay. Consider using the airport’s website to check real-time parking availability and pricing.