Durango, Colorado, a gem nestled in the Old West, beckons travelers with its stunning ponderosa forests, majestic mountains, and proximity to attractions like Mesa Verde National Park and the San Juan National Forest. If you’re planning a trip to this Southwestern Colorado paradise, flying into Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is your most convenient gateway. But What Airlines Fly Into Durango Colorado to make your travel dreams a reality? Let’s explore the airlines that connect you directly to Durango, year-round and seasonally.
Year-Round Airlines Serving Durango Airport (DRO)
Durango enjoys consistent air service throughout the year, ensuring you can access this mountain destination whenever you desire. Here are the airlines offering year-round flights into DRO:
Flights from Denver, CO (DEN)
Denver International Airport (DEN), a major hub, provides multiple daily flights to Durango year-round. United Airlines is the primary carrier on this route, offering numerous departures daily. You can expect a quick flight, just over an hour, connecting you from the Front Range to the heart of Southwest Colorado. Keep an eye on fares, as they can fluctuate depending on the season and booking time, generally falling in the range of a few hundred dollars. Frontier Airlines also provides service on this route, offering budget-friendly options on select days.
Flights from Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
For those traveling from or connecting through the Southwest, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offers a convenient direct route to Durango. American Airlines operates this year-round service, with multiple flights available throughout the day. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours, making for a relatively short hop from the Arizona desert to the Colorado mountains. Fares for this route are also subject to seasonal variations but typically range in a similar bracket to the Denver flights.
Flights from Dallas/Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
Travelers from Texas and the Southern states benefit from direct flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Durango. American Airlines again provides this essential year-round connection, with morning, afternoon, and evening departures to suit various travel schedules. This flight is slightly longer, at just over 2 hours, bringing you from the Texan plains to the mountainous terrain of Colorado. Expect fares to start a bit higher for this route, generally upwards of $350, and varying with demand and time of booking.
Flights from Salt Lake City, UT (SLC)
Delta Air Lines expands Durango’s connectivity with direct, year-round flights from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). This route, operating at least once daily, provides seamless access from the Intermountain West. The flight time is comparable to the Phoenix route, around 1.5 hours, and offers another excellent option for reaching Durango from various connecting cities through Delta’s network. Fares are generally competitive, often starting under $300, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Seasonal Airlines Flying to Durango
In addition to the consistent year-round service, Durango welcomes seasonal flights, particularly during peak travel times, offering even more convenient options:
Seasonal Flights from Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
During the popular summer travel season, American Airlines resumes its non-stop service from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) directly to Durango. These seasonal flights typically operate daily throughout June, July, and August, catering to the influx of visitors during Durango’s prime season. The 2-hour flight provides a direct and time-saving option for those originating from or connecting through Southern California. Due to the seasonal demand, fares for this route tend to be higher, generally starting around $450 and up.
Seasonal Flights from Denver, CO (DEN) – Additional Options
Beyond the year-round United and Frontier services from Denver, Frontier Airlines may offer additional seasonal flights to Denver International Airport (DEN). These supplemental flights often operate on select days of the week during the summer season, providing increased capacity and potentially more budget-friendly options for travelers heading to Durango from Denver. It’s always advisable to check directly with Frontier Airlines for the most up-to-date seasonal schedules and availability.
Conclusion: Durango is Closer Than You Think
Thanks to a variety of airlines offering both year-round and seasonal flights into Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO), accessing this stunning corner of Colorado has never been easier. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the mountains, exploring ancient history at Mesa Verde, or simply escaping to the beauty of the Old West, planning your trip to Durango by air is a breeze. With direct flights from major hubs like Denver, Phoenix, Dallas, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles (seasonally), choosing the right airline to fly into Durango Colorado is simply a matter of selecting the most convenient departure point and travel dates for your unforgettable Colorado experience.
