Planning a trip to the stunning Florida Keys and Key West? One of the first questions on your mind is likely, “Where To Fly Into For Florida Keys?” Arriving by air is a popular and efficient way to begin your island adventure. This guide will walk you through the best airport options to start your Florida Keys vacation, ensuring a smooth transition from the runway to the relaxation of island time.
Key West International Airport (EYW): Your Direct Gateway
For the most direct access to the southernmost point, Key West International Airport (EYW) is your primary choice. Located right on the island of Key West, EYW offers unparalleled convenience, allowing you to step off the plane and almost immediately immerse yourself in the Key West atmosphere. This airport is ideal if Key West is your main destination, or if you prefer to minimize travel time after landing.
Several major airlines provide direct flights to Key West International Airport, making it accessible from various cities. Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and United operate routes to EYW, often with connections through major hubs like Miami, Atlanta, or Charlotte. Regional carriers like American Eagle and Silver Airways also contribute to the flight options available.
Choosing to fly directly into Key West saves you considerable driving time. While the drive down the Overseas Highway is scenic, landing in EYW allows you to skip the approximately 3-4 hour drive from mainland Florida airports. This is especially beneficial for shorter trips or travelers eager to maximize their time enjoying Key West.
Upon arrival at Key West International Airport, you’ll find various ground transportation options readily available. Taxis, shuttle services, and rental cars are all conveniently located at the terminal, making it easy to reach your Key West hotel or begin exploring the island. The airport’s proximity to downtown Key West means you can quickly start your vacation.
For those interested in seeing non-stop flight options, Key West International Airport provides a helpful chart detailing cities with direct service to EYW. This can be a valuable tool when planning your flights and determining the most convenient routes.
Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH): A Central Keys Option
While Key West is ideal for the lower Keys, consider Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH) if your plans focus on the central Keys, such as Marathon, Islamorada, or Duck Key. Located in Marathon, this airport provides a more central arrival point, reducing driving time to the middle and upper Keys.
Marathon Airport primarily caters to charter and private aircraft. It’s an excellent option for those utilizing on-demand charter services for a more personalized and flexible travel experience. Several charter service providers operate at MTH, offering flights tailored to your specific needs and itinerary.
While commercial airlines generally do not serve Marathon Airport directly, its facilities are well-equipped for general aviation and corporate jets. Services include ground transportation, rental cars, and airport shuttle buses, ensuring smooth onward travel to your destination within the central Florida Keys.
For visitors arriving internationally via private aircraft, Florida Keys Marathon International Airport also provides U.S. Customs and Border Protection services, streamlining the arrival process for international flights. This feature enhances its appeal for international travelers opting for private aviation.
Alternative Airports: Miami (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
For a wider range of flight options and potentially more competitive fares, consider flying into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). These major international airports offer significantly more flight volume and airlines compared to EYW and MTH.
While not located in the Florida Keys, MIA and FLL are the primary gateways for most visitors arriving by air. From either airport, you can rent a car and drive south on the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1) to reach the Keys. The drive from Miami to Key Largo, the first key, is approximately an hour, and Key West is about 3-4 hours further, depending on traffic and your specific destination within the Keys.
Ground transportation from MIA and FLL to the Florida Keys is abundant. Shuttle services, bus lines like Greyhound and FlixBus, and private car services offer various options to reach your final destination in the Keys. These options can be more economical than renting a car, especially if you plan to stay primarily in one area of the Keys and won’t need a car for local transportation.
Keep in mind that driving from Miami or Fort Lauderdale involves tolls on the Florida Turnpike. Electronic toll collection systems are in place, so ensure you understand toll payment options, especially if renting a car. Many rental car companies offer programs for toll payment, or you can explore options like SunPass for your own vehicle.
Airport Codes for Your Florida Keys Trip
To summarize, here’s a quick reference table of airport codes to help you when booking your flights to the Florida Keys:
| Airport Code | Airport Name | Location | Serves Best |
|---|---|---|---|
| EYW | Key West International Airport | Key West | Lower Keys & Key West |
| MTH | Florida Keys Marathon International Airport | Marathon | Middle Keys |
| FLL | Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport | Fort Lauderdale | Gateway to all Keys |
| MIA | Miami International Airport | Miami | Gateway to all Keys |
Choosing where to fly into for your Florida Keys vacation depends on your itinerary and preferences. For direct access to Key West and the lower Keys, EYW is the most convenient. For the central Keys and private aviation, MTH is a great option. And for the widest range of flight choices and potentially lower fares, consider MIA or FLL, followed by a scenic drive to the Keys. No matter which airport you choose, your Florida Keys adventure awaits!
