Key West, a captivating island nestled off the southern coast of Florida, is a dream destination for many. Measuring a petite 2 miles by 4 miles, this unique island is geographically closer to Havana, Cuba, than to Miami, Florida. Discover more about Key West’s unique location.
When planning your escape to this island paradise, you’ll find several transportation options, but flying directly to Key West offers unparalleled convenience and speed. Let’s explore everything you need to know about flying to Key West and making your journey seamless.
Direct Flights to Key West: Airlines and Routes
Aerial view of Key West International Airport (EYW) location on Key West Island, Florida Keys, highlighting Old Town historic district.
Key West boasts its own international airport, Key West International Airport (EYW), situated right on the island. This eliminates the need for lengthy transfers from mainland airports, allowing you to begin your island adventure almost immediately upon arrival. Several major airlines offer daily non-stop flights to EYW, connecting Key West to various cities across the United States.
Airlines providing non-stop flights to Key West International Airport (EYW):
- Delta Air Lines: Connects Key West directly with Atlanta (ATL), a major international hub, and New York City (LGA), offering convenient access from the Northeast.
- American Airlines: Provides the most extensive domestic connectivity to Key West, with non-stop flights from:
- Miami (MIA): A short hop from South Florida.
- Boston (BOS): Serving the New England region.
- Philadelphia (PHL): Providing access from the Mid-Atlantic states.
- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW): Connecting Key West to the Southwest and beyond.
- Charlotte (CLT): A major hub for the Southeast.
- Washington, D.C. (DCA): Offering direct access from the capital region.
- United Airlines: Links Key West with major Midwestern and Northeastern hubs:
- Chicago (ORD): Providing connections from the Midwest and internationally.
- Newark (EWR): Serving the New York metropolitan area and offering international connections.
- Silver Airways: A regional airline focusing on Florida and the Bahamas, offering intrastate flights to Key West from:
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL): Another South Florida gateway.
- Fort Myers (RSW): Serving Southwest Florida.
- Tampa (TPA): Connecting the Tampa Bay area.
- Orlando (MCO): Providing access from Central Florida and major theme parks.
Code Sharing Agreements: To expand route networks, airlines often partner in code-sharing agreements. Currently, Key West benefits from the following code-share arrangements:
- jetBlue: Flights to Key West operated by Silver Airways, expanding jetBlue’s reach into this destination.
- United Airlines: Select routes to Key West are also operated by Silver Airways, providing more options for United customers.
- British Airways: Connecting international travelers, some American Airlines flights to Key West are code-shared with British Airways.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flying to Key West
Which airport should I fly into for Key West?
For direct access to Key West, fly into Key West International Airport (EYW). This airport is conveniently located on the island itself, ensuring a quick start to your vacation. The “International” designation comes from its U.S. Customs facility, necessary for handling international flights, even though current scheduled services are domestic. EYW is positioned on the eastern end of Key West, a compact island just 4 miles in width.
What is the nearest major airport to Key West?
While Key West has its own airport, the closest major international airport is Miami International Airport (MIA). However, flying into MIA and then driving to Key West involves a scenic but potentially lengthy drive of approximately 3-4 hours. For the most direct and time-saving route, flying directly into Key West International Airport (EYW) is highly recommended. Common connecting airports for flights to Key West include Miami (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Tampa (TPA), Orlando (MCO), and Atlanta (ATL).
How far is Key West from mainland Florida and major Florida cities?
Key West is geographically separated from mainland Florida as part of the Florida Keys archipelago. Here are approximate distances to provide context:
- 90 miles from mainland Florida (as it is an offshore island within the Florida Keys).
- 165 miles from Miami, Florida.
- 188 miles from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- 392 miles from Orlando, Florida.
- 425 miles from Tampa, Florida.
These distances highlight the island’s remote charm and the convenience of flying directly to Key West.
Other Transportation Options: Driving and Ferries
Driving map from Miami to Key West, Florida, illustrating the scenic route along US Highway 1 and the Florida Keys.
While flying is often the quickest way to reach Key West, driving offers a unique and iconic experience. The drive to Key West is renowned as one of North America’s most scenic routes, traversing the Overseas Highway (U.S. Highway 1). This highway strings together a series of islands and bridges for nearly 90 miles from the mainland to Key West, culminating at mile marker zero.
Driving from Miami typically takes around 3 hours, and from Fort Lauderdale, approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The Florida Turnpike provides the fastest route to the Florida Keys, transitioning to US-1 for the island chain. Be aware of toll charges, now primarily electronic. Rental cars are readily available at Key West International Airport from companies like Avis, Budget, Dollar, and Hertz, with off-airport options including Enterprise, Alamo, and National. However, once in Key West’s Old Town, most attractions are easily walkable, and many visitors find they don’t need a car for exploring the historic district.
For an alternative to driving, a ferry service operates from Fort Myers to Key West. This ferry journey is a full-day excursion, often with overnight stay options in Key West, providing a different perspective on reaching the island. Currently, there are no ferry services to Key West from other cities, including Miami.
Cruise ships frequently include Key West as a port of call but do not originate itineraries from Key West. Therefore, boarding a cruise ship in Key West is not an option unless you are already a passenger on that ship.
Conclusion:
Flying to Key West International Airport (EYW) is the most efficient and convenient way to begin your Key West vacation. With numerous direct flight options from major US cities, reaching this island paradise has never been easier. Whether you prioritize speed or scenic routes, Key West welcomes you with open arms and promises an unforgettable island experience.
