Where To Fly Into Mackinac Island? Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) welcomes smaller planes and charters, but for major airlines, nearby airports like Chippewa County International (CIU) and Pellston Regional (PLN) offer convenient alternatives, as detailed by flyermedia.net, ensuring a smooth start to your island adventure. This guide will help you navigate your flight options, explore connecting flights, and discover the best ways to reach Mackinac Island.
1. Understanding Your Options: Flying to Mackinac Island
Can you fly directly to Mackinac Island? Yes, Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) is an option. The airport has a 3,500-foot paved runway suitable for propeller planes and smaller jets. However, no major airlines fly directly into Mackinac Island Airport. For commercial flights, consider flying into nearby airports and then taking a ferry or a short connecting flight. These alternatives offer a more accessible route for most travelers.
Mackinac Island Airport primarily accommodates short flights from St. Ignace, located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The flight time from St. Ignace is approximately 7 minutes. Charter flights to Mackinac Island are also available from airports throughout Michigan, the Midwest, and beyond.
Aerial view of Mackinac Island with the airport in sight
2. Nearest Major Airports to Mackinac Island
What are the closest commercial airports to Mackinac Island? Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) and Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) are your best bets. CIU is approximately 35 miles north of St. Ignace, near Sault Ste. Marie, while PLN is about 15 miles south of Mackinaw City. From either airport, you can take a shuttle to the ferry docks in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and then hop on a ferry to Mackinac Island.
2.1. Chippewa County International Airport (CIU)
Located near Sault Ste. Marie, CIU offers a convenient entry point to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The airport is serviced by SkyWest Airlines, operating as Delta Connection, with daily flights to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW).
- Airlines: SkyWest Airlines (Delta Connection)
- Destinations: Detroit (DTW)
- Distance to Ferry Docks: Approximately 35 miles to St. Ignace
2.2. Pellston Regional Airport (PLN)
Pellston Regional Airport is another excellent option, located just south of Mackinaw City. PLN is served by Delta Connection and United Express, providing flights to Detroit and Chicago, respectively.
- Airlines: Delta Connection, United Express
- Destinations: Detroit (DTW), Chicago (ORD)
- Distance to Ferry Docks: Approximately 15 miles to Mackinaw City
3. Connecting Flights to Northern Michigan
Where do connecting flights to Mackinac Island originate? Connecting flights to CIU and PLN usually originate from major airports in Detroit, Minneapolis, or Chicago. These larger airports serve as hubs for Delta and United, making it easier to reach northern Michigan.
3.1. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is a major hub for Delta Air Lines, offering numerous connecting flights to both CIU and PLN. Flying into DTW and then connecting to a smaller airport can be a convenient way to reach Mackinac Island.
- Airlines: Delta Air Lines
- Connecting Airports: Chippewa County International Airport (CIU), Pellston Regional Airport (PLN)
3.2. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is another significant hub, particularly for Delta Air Lines. From MSP, you can find connecting flights to CIU. Alternatively, consider renting a car for a scenic road trip.
- Airlines: Delta Air Lines
- Connecting Airports: Chippewa County International Airport (CIU)
3.3. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) serves as a major hub for United Airlines. You can find connecting flights from ORD to Pellston Regional Airport (PLN). Additionally, renting a car from Chicago offers a chance to explore the Lake Michigan coastline.
- Airlines: United Airlines
- Connecting Airports: Pellston Regional Airport (PLN)
4. Planning a Road Trip to Mackinac Island
Can I drive to Mackinac Island? You can drive to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, but not onto the island itself. Consider flying into a major airport and then driving the rest of the way for a scenic road trip.
4.1. Driving from Minneapolis
The drive from Minneapolis to Mackinac Island is approximately 9 hours. This route takes you through Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, offering stunning views along the way.
- Route: Minneapolis -> Wisconsin -> Upper Peninsula -> Mackinac City/St. Ignace
- Driving Time: Approximately 9 hours
4.2. Driving from Chicago
Driving from Chicago to Mackinac Island takes about 6-7 hours. You can choose between two routes: along the east coast of Lake Michigan through Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, or along the west coast of the lake through Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
- Route Options:
- Chicago -> Lower Peninsula -> Mackinaw City
- Chicago -> Wisconsin -> Upper Peninsula -> St. Ignace
- Driving Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
4.3. Driving from Detroit
The drive from Detroit to Mackinac Island is the shortest, at around 4 hours. This makes it a convenient option if you’re flying into Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW).
- Route: Detroit -> I-75 North -> Mackinaw City
- Driving Time: Approximately 4 hours
5. Exploring Smaller Michigan Airports
Are there other airports in Michigan I can fly into? Yes, consider flying into airports in Grand Rapids (GRR), Flint (FNT), Traverse City (TVC), Lansing (LAN), Kalamazoo (AZO), Saginaw (MBS), or Marquette (SAW) for shorter road trips. These airports offer a more regional approach, cutting down on driving time.
5.1. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) – Grand Rapids
Located in Grand Rapids, GRR offers a convenient starting point for a scenic drive up the Lake Michigan coast.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 4 hours
- Airlines: American, Delta, Southwest, United
5.2. Bishop International Airport (FNT) – Flint
Flint’s airport provides an alternative entry point into Michigan, located closer to Detroit.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 3 hours
- Airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, United
5.3. Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) – Traverse City
Traverse City’s airport is ideal for those wanting to explore the Leelanau Peninsula before heading to Mackinac.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 2.5 hours
- Airlines: American, Delta, United
5.4. Capital Region International Airport (LAN) – Lansing
Lansing’s airport offers another option for reaching Mackinac Island, located centrally in Michigan.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 3.5 hours
- Airlines: American, Delta
5.5. Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) – Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo’s airport provides a convenient entry point for those coming from the south.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 5 hours
- Airlines: American, Delta
5.6. MBS International Airport (MBS) – Saginaw
Saginaw’s airport is a good option for travelers coming from the central part of the state.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 3 hours
- Airlines: American, Delta, United
5.7. Sawyer International Airport (SAW) – Marquette
Located in the Upper Peninsula, Marquette’s airport is closest to Mackinac Island, but may have fewer flight options.
- Distance to Mackinaw City: Approximately 4 hours
- Airlines: Delta, United
6. Getting Around on Mackinac Island
How do you get around Mackinac Island without a car? Once on the island, you’ll rely on horse-drawn taxis, bicycles, or your own two feet to explore. Cars are not allowed, contributing to the island’s unique charm.
6.1. Horse-Drawn Taxis
Horse-drawn taxis are a quintessential Mackinac Island experience. They provide a relaxing and scenic way to reach your accommodation or explore the island.
6.2. Bicycles
Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation on Mackinac Island. You can bring your own or rent one from numerous shops on the island.
6.3. Walking
Walking allows you to fully appreciate the island’s beauty at your own pace. Many attractions are within walking distance of the ferry docks.
7. Aerial Tours of Mackinac Island
Can you take a scenic flight around Mackinac Island? Even if you don’t fly directly to Mackinac Island, you can still enjoy a scenic aerial tour of the region. Several companies offer flights that provide stunning views of the island, the Straits of Mackinac, and the surrounding area.
7.1. Advantages of an Aerial Tour
- Unique Perspective: See Mackinac Island from a breathtaking aerial view.
- Comprehensive Sightseeing: Cover more ground and see more attractions in less time.
- Memorable Experience: Create lasting memories with a one-of-a-kind adventure.
8. Winter Travel to Mackinac Island
What if I’m traveling to Mackinac Island in the winter? In the depths of winter, when ice clogs the Straits of Mackinac, flying to Mackinac Island Airport might be the only way to reach the island. Check with local charter services for availability and weather conditions.
8.1. Winter Considerations
- Ice Conditions: The Straits of Mackinac can freeze over, making ferry travel impossible.
- Charter Flights: Charter flights to Mackinac Island Airport become essential.
- Weather: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for potential delays.
9. Choosing the Best Airport: Key Factors
How do I decide which airport is best for my trip to Mackinac Island? Consider factors such as flight availability, cost, and distance to the ferry docks when choosing the best airport for your trip.
9.1. Flight Availability
Check which airlines fly into each airport and whether they offer convenient flight times and connections.
9.2. Cost
Compare the cost of flights to each airport, including any additional costs for shuttles or rental cars.
9.3. Distance to Ferry Docks
Consider the distance from the airport to the ferry docks and the time it will take to travel between them.
Comparison Table: Airports Near Mackinac Island
| Airport | Code | Distance to Mackinac Island Ferry Docks | Airlines | Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chippewa County International Airport | CIU | 35 miles to St. Ignace | SkyWest Airlines (Delta Connection) | Detroit (DTW) |
| Pellston Regional Airport | PLN | 15 miles to Mackinaw City | Delta Connection, United Express | Detroit (DTW), Chicago (ORD) |
| Mackinac Island Airport | MCD | On Mackinac Island | Charter Flights, Private Planes | St. Ignace, Various |
| Gerald R. Ford International Airport | GRR | Approximately 4 hours drive | American, Delta, Southwest, United | Various |
| Bishop International Airport | FNT | Approximately 3 hours drive | Allegiant, American, Delta, United | Various |
| Cherry Capital Airport | TVC | Approximately 2.5 hours drive | American, Delta, United | Various |
| Capital Region International Airport | LAN | Approximately 3.5 hours drive | American, Delta | Various |
| Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Int’l Airport | AZO | Approximately 5 hours drive | American, Delta | Various |
| MBS International Airport | MBS | Approximately 3 hours drive | American, Delta, United | Various |
| Sawyer International Airport | SAW | Approximately 4 hours drive | Delta, United | Various |
10. Essential Tips for Flying to Mackinac Island
What should I know before flying to Mackinac Island? Plan ahead, book your flights and accommodations in advance, and be prepared for the unique transportation options on the island.
10.1. Book in Advance
Flights and accommodations, especially during peak season, should be booked well in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
10.2. Pack Appropriately
Pack comfortable shoes for walking or biking, and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
10.3. Plan for Transportation
Familiarize yourself with the transportation options on Mackinac Island, including horse-drawn taxis, bicycles, and walking paths.
FAQ: Your Questions About Flying to Mackinac Island Answered
1. Can you fly directly to Mackinac Island?
Yes, you can fly directly to Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) with smaller planes and charter flights, but major airlines do not offer direct flights.
2. What is the closest major airport to Mackinac Island?
The closest major airports are Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) and Pellston Regional Airport (PLN).
3. How far is Chippewa County International Airport from Mackinac Island?
Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) is approximately 35 miles north of St. Ignace, where you can catch a ferry to Mackinac Island.
4. How far is Pellston Regional Airport from Mackinac Island?
Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) is about 15 miles south of Mackinaw City, where you can take a ferry to Mackinac Island.
5. What airlines fly into Chippewa County International Airport?
SkyWest Airlines, operating as Delta Connection, flies into Chippewa County International Airport (CIU).
6. What airlines fly into Pellston Regional Airport?
Delta Connection and United Express fly into Pellston Regional Airport (PLN).
7. How do I get from the airport to the ferry dock?
From Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) or Pellston Regional Airport (PLN), you can take a shuttle or taxi to the ferry docks in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City.
8. Is it possible to drive to Mackinac Island?
No, cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island. You can drive to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and then take a ferry to the island.
9. What are the transportation options on Mackinac Island?
Transportation options on Mackinac Island include horse-drawn taxis, bicycles, and walking.
10. Can I take a scenic flight over Mackinac Island?
Yes, several companies offer scenic aerial tours of Mackinac Island and the surrounding area.
Planning your trip to Mackinac Island involves understanding your air travel options, from direct flights to nearby airports and scenic road trips. For more detailed information on flight options, airport services, and travel tips, visit flyermedia.net. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone planning a special vacation, flyermedia.net offers valuable insights to make your journey seamless. Explore our resources today and turn your Mackinac Island dream into a reality.
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