What Airlines Fly Into Mesa, AZ? Your Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a trip to Mesa, Arizona, and wondering what airlines fly into Mesa, AZ? Look no further than flyermedia.net! We’ll break down the airlines that service Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA), providing you with information to make your travel planning seamless. From low-cost carriers to seasonal options, discover how to get to Mesa with ease and explore various air travel options.

1. Understanding Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA)

Before diving into the specifics of airlines, it’s important to understand the airport itself.

What is Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport?

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) is a commercial airport located in Mesa, Arizona, about 20 miles southeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). AZA serves as a reliever airport for PHX, offering an alternative for travelers, especially those looking for budget-friendly options and convenient access to the East Valley region of the Phoenix metropolitan area. According to a 2023 study by the Arizona Department of Transportation, AZA contributes over $1.3 billion annually to the Arizona economy.

Why Choose AZA Over Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)?

Choosing between Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX):

More Airlines and Destinations: PHX offers a significantly wider range of airlines and direct flights to destinations worldwide. You have more options for flight times, routes, and airline preferences.
Frequent Flights: PHX generally has more frequent flights, providing greater flexibility if you need to change your travel plans or find a last-minute flight.
Full-Service Airport: As a major international airport, PHX offers a full range of services and amenities, including numerous dining options, shopping, lounges, and ground transportation choices.
Central Location: PHX is located closer to downtown Phoenix and is easily accessible from most parts of the Valley via major freeways and public transportation.

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA):

Low-Cost Carriers: AZA is primarily served by low-cost airlines like Allegiant Air and occasionally Sun Country, which can offer significantly cheaper fares, especially if you’re flexible with travel dates and don’t require extra amenities.
Less Crowded: AZA is generally less crowded than PHX, resulting in shorter security lines, easier navigation, and a more relaxed travel experience.
Convenient for East Valley: If you live in or are visiting the East Valley (Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek), AZA is much more convenient, saving you travel time and potential traffic congestion.
Simpler Parking: Parking at AZA is typically cheaper and easier to navigate compared to PHX.
Focus on Point-to-Point Routes: AZA specializes in direct, point-to-point flights, which can be ideal if you’re traveling to specific leisure destinations without the need for connecting flights.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:

Feature	Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)	Phoenix-Mesa Gateway (AZA)
Airlines	Wide range, full-service	Primarily low-cost
Destinations	Extensive domestic & intl	Limited, point-to-point
Flight Frequency	High	Lower
Crowds	More crowded	Less crowded
Location	Central Phoenix	East Valley (Mesa)
Cost	Generally higher	Generally lower
Parking	More expensive, complex	Cheaper, simpler
Ground Transportation	Extensive	Limited

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, destination, preferred airline, and where you’re located in the Phoenix area. If you prioritize cost savings and convenience to the East Valley and don’t mind limited flight options, AZA is a great choice. If you need a wider range of destinations, airlines, and flight times, and don’t mind the extra cost and crowds, PHX is likely the better option.

Where is Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport located?

The address for Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is 6001 S. Power Road, Mesa, AZ 85212.

2. What Airlines Currently Fly Into Mesa, AZ (AZA)?

As of 2024, the primary airlines operating at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport are Allegiant Air. Here’s a closer look:

Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air is the dominant airline at AZA. It focuses on providing low-cost, point-to-point flights to a variety of destinations across the United States.

Destinations: Allegiant Air offers numerous domestic destinations from Mesa, including cities in California, Oregon, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Tennessee, Arkansas, and more. These destinations vary depending on the season, so checking their website for the most up-to-date information is crucial. According to Allegiant’s route map, they frequently add and adjust destinations based on demand and seasonality.
Fleet: Allegiant primarily operates Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. These planes are configured with a single-class layout to maximize passenger capacity and keep costs down.
Pricing Model: Allegiant uses an unbundled pricing model, meaning the base fare covers only the flight itself. Passengers pay extra for everything else, including baggage, seat selection, and even carry-on bags (depending on the size).
Tips for Flying Allegiant:
- Book in Advance: For the best fares, book your flights well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Travel Light: Pack light to avoid baggage fees. Carefully review Allegiant’s baggage policies, as they are stricter than those of many major airlines.
- Consider a Bundle: If you plan to check a bag or select a seat, consider purchasing one of Allegiant’s bundles, which can save you money compared to buying each service individually.
- Check-In Online: Check-in online before arriving at the airport to save time and avoid potential fees for airport check-in.

Sun Country Airlines

While historically a presence at AZA, Sun Country Airlines’ service can be seasonal or sporadic. It’s always best to check their website for current routes.

Destinations: When operating from AZA, Sun Country typically offers flights to destinations like Minneapolis/St. Paul.
Fleet: Sun Country primarily uses Boeing 737 aircraft.
Service: While still considered a low-cost carrier, Sun Country often includes more amenities in their base fare compared to Allegiant.

Other Airlines and Charter Services

While Allegiant Air is the primary commercial airline, AZA also accommodates:

General Aviation: Private pilots and smaller aircraft frequently use AZA.
Corporate Aviation: Businesses use AZA for private jet travel.
Military Flights: The airport has a history of supporting military operations and training exercises, being the former Williams Air Force Base.
Cargo Operations: Some cargo airlines may operate at AZA, though this is less frequent than passenger service.

3. Research-Backed Reasons for Airline Choices at AZA

Several factors influence which airlines choose to operate at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Research and industry trends highlight these reasons:

Low-Cost Focus: AZA is attractive to low-cost carriers like Allegiant because of its lower operating costs compared to larger, more congested airports. This allows the airlines to offer cheaper fares, attracting price-sensitive travelers. According to a 2022 report by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), passengers are increasingly prioritizing affordability when choosing flights.
Point-to-Point Model: Airlines like Allegiant thrive on a point-to-point route network, connecting smaller cities directly without the need for hub-and-spoke systems. This model is efficient for leisure travelers seeking direct flights to vacation destinations. A study by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in July 2023 shows a growing demand for direct flights, particularly among leisure travelers.
East Valley Demand: AZA serves the rapidly growing East Valley region of the Phoenix metropolitan area, including Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Queen Creek. This area has a large population base that appreciates the convenience of a closer airport. According to the Maricopa Association of Governments, the East Valley is projected to continue experiencing significant population growth in the coming years, further increasing demand for air travel from AZA.
Reliever Airport Role: AZA acts as a reliever airport for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), helping to alleviate congestion and provide additional capacity for air travel in the Phoenix area. This role is supported by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which provides funding for airport improvements and infrastructure development.
Seasonal Demand: Some airlines may operate seasonally at AZA, taking advantage of increased demand during peak travel periods such as winter (for snowbirds visiting Arizona) or summer (for travelers seeking vacation destinations).

Table: Factors Influencing Airline Choices at AZA

Factor	Description	Supporting Evidence
Low-Cost Focus	Lower operating costs allow airlines to offer cheaper fares.	2022 APEX report: Passengers prioritize affordability.
Point-to-Point Model	Direct flights connecting smaller cities without hubs.	July 2023 Embry-Riddle study: Growing demand for direct flights.
East Valley Demand	Serves the rapidly growing East Valley region.	Maricopa Association of Governments: Projected population growth in the East Valley.
Reliever Airport Role	Alleviates congestion at Phoenix Sky Harbor.	FAA funding for airport improvements and infrastructure.
Seasonal Demand	Airlines operate seasonally during peak travel periods.	Anecdotal evidence: Increased flights during winter and summer.

These factors combine to create a unique environment that attracts specific types of airlines to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, primarily those focused on low-cost travel and point-to-point routes.

4. Destinations Served from Mesa (AZA)

The destinations served from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport vary depending on the airline and the season. However, here are some common destinations you can expect to find:

Popular Destinations with Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air is known for its focus on leisure destinations, connecting Mesa to various vacation spots across the country. Some popular destinations include:

California: Los Angeles, Oakland/San Francisco, San Diego, and various smaller airports.
Oregon: Medford
Washington: Bellingham, Spokane
Montana: Billings, Missoula
North Dakota: Grand Forks
Illinois: Rockford, Moline/Quad Cities
Indiana: Indianapolis
Iowa: Des Moines
Tennessee: Memphis
Arkansas: Northwest Arkansas (XNA)

This is not an exhaustive list, and destinations can change frequently. Always check Allegiant’s website for the most current route map.

Seasonal Destinations

Some destinations are only served during certain times of the year, typically during peak travel seasons. For example, flights to colder climates might be more frequent in the winter, while flights to vacation destinations might increase during the summer.

How to Find the Most Up-to-Date Destination Information

Airline Websites: The best place to find the most accurate and up-to-date information is directly on the websites of the airlines that fly into AZA (primarily Allegiant Air).
Flight Search Engines: Use flight search engines like Google Flights, Kayak, or Skyscanner to search for flights from Mesa (AZA) to your desired destination. These search engines will show you which airlines fly the route and the available flight times.
Airport Website: The Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport website may also provide information on airlines and destinations, but it’s always best to confirm with the airline directly.

5. How to Find the Best Deals on Flights into Mesa (AZA)

Flying into Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) can be a budget-friendly option, especially if you know how to find the best deals. Here are some strategies to help you save money on your flights:

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

One of the easiest ways to save money on flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Flight prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, the time of year, and whether it’s a holiday or peak travel season.

Travel During the Off-Season: Consider traveling during the off-season or shoulder season when demand is lower and prices are typically cheaper. For example, avoid traveling during the winter holidays or spring break.
Fly Mid-Week: Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper than flights on weekends or Mondays.
Use Flexible Date Search Tools: Many flight search engines, like Google Flights and Skyscanner, have flexible date search tools that allow you to see how prices vary over a range of dates.

Book in Advance (But Not Too Early)

Booking your flights in advance can often help you get a better deal, but there’s a sweet spot. Booking too early (e.g., more than six months in advance) might not always result in the lowest price, as airlines haven’t fully adjusted their prices yet.

Aim for 2-3 Months in Advance: A general rule of thumb is to book domestic flights about 2-3 months in advance.
Monitor Prices: Use price tracking tools (see below) to monitor prices and get a sense of when they are likely to drop.

Use Flight Search Engines and Price Tracking Tools

Flight search engines and price tracking tools can help you compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals.

Google Flights: Google Flights is a powerful tool that allows you to search for flights, track prices, and explore different destinations.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner is another popular flight search engine that compares prices from multiple airlines and allows you to set up price alerts.
Kayak: Kayak searches multiple travel sites to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars.
Hopper: Hopper is a mobile app that predicts flight prices and tells you when to buy.

Consider Budget Airlines

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is primarily served by budget airlines like Allegiant Air, which often offer significantly lower fares than traditional airlines. However, be aware of extra fees.

Factor in Extra Fees: Budget airlines often charge extra for things like baggage, seat selection, and even carry-on bags. Make sure to factor these fees into your total cost when comparing prices.
Read the Fine Print: Be sure to read the fine print and understand the airline’s policies before booking your flight.

Sign Up for Email Alerts

Airline Newsletters: Sign up for newsletters from airlines like Allegiant Air to receive updates on sales and special offers.
Flight Search Engine Alerts: Set up price alerts on flight search engines to be notified when prices drop for your desired route.

Clear Your Browser Cookies

Airlines and travel websites sometimes track your browsing history and may increase prices if they see that you’ve been searching for a particular flight.

Clear Cookies Regularly: Clear your browser cookies regularly or use a private browsing mode to prevent websites from tracking your searches.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding the best deals on flights into Mesa (AZA) and save money on your trip.

6. Alternative Airports: Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)

While AZA is a convenient option for the East Valley, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offers more airlines and destinations.

Why Consider PHX?

More Airlines: PHX is served by nearly all major domestic and international airlines.
More Destinations: You can fly direct to almost anywhere in the world from PHX.
More Frequent Flights: PHX has more flights, offering greater flexibility.

Getting from PHX to Mesa

If you fly into PHX but are heading to Mesa, you have several transportation options:

Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular option, giving you flexibility to explore the Phoenix area.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate at PHX and can take you to Mesa.
Public Transportation: Valley Metro Rail connects PHX to downtown Phoenix, where you can transfer to a bus or light rail line to Mesa, though this can be time-consuming.
Shuttle Services: Several shuttle companies offer transportation between PHX and Mesa.

7. Airport Amenities at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) offers a range of amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient. While it’s not as extensive as larger airports like Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), AZA provides essential services and facilities for travelers.

Terminal Services

Ticketing and Check-In: AZA has airline ticketing counters where you can check in for your flight, print boarding passes, and check your baggage. Allegiant Air is the primary airline operating at AZA, so their counters are prominently located.
Security Checkpoint: The airport has a TSA security checkpoint. Wait times are generally shorter compared to larger airports, but it’s always a good idea to arrive early to allow ample time for security screening.
Baggage Claim: AZA has a baggage claim area where you can retrieve your checked baggage after your flight.

Food and Beverages

Food Court: AZA has a food court with a selection of dining options, including:
- Bar: Serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as light snacks.
- Grill: Offers burgers, sandwiches, and other grilled items.
- Coffee Shop: Serves coffee, tea, pastries, and other snacks.
Vending Machines: Vending machines are available throughout the terminal, offering drinks and snacks.

Shopping

Gift Shop: AZA has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and reading materials.

Other Amenities

Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
Charging Stations: Charging stations are available for your electronic devices.
Restrooms: Restrooms are located throughout the terminal.
Pet Relief Area: AZA has a designated pet relief area for passengers traveling with animals.
Rental Car Services: Rental car companies have counters at the airport, making it easy to rent a car upon arrival.
Parking: AZA offers both short-term and long-term parking options. The parking lots are located close to the terminal, making it convenient to access your vehicle.
Accessibility: AZA is accessible to passengers with disabilities. The airport provides wheelchair service, accessible restrooms, and other accommodations.

Tips for Using AZA Amenities

Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check in, go through security, and explore the amenities.
Check the Airport Website: Check the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport website for the most up-to-date information on amenities, hours of operation, and any travel advisories.
Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi: Use the free Wi-Fi to stay connected, browse the web, or catch up on work.
Bring Snacks and Drinks: While AZA has food and beverage options, you may want to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.
Utilize Charging Stations: If your electronic devices are running low on battery, take advantage of the charging stations to power up.

By taking advantage of the amenities at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, you can make your travel experience more enjoyable and stress-free.

8. Future Expansion and Development at AZA

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) is committed to ongoing expansion and development to meet the growing demand for air travel in the East Valley region of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Several projects are planned or underway to enhance the airport’s infrastructure, services, and capacity.

Terminal Expansion

Additional Gates: AZA is planning to add more gates to accommodate the increasing number of flights and passengers. This expansion will help reduce congestion and improve the overall passenger experience.
Improved Passenger Flow: The terminal expansion will also focus on improving passenger flow, making it easier for travelers to navigate the airport.
Enhanced Amenities: The expanded terminal will include enhanced amenities such as more dining options, shopping, and comfortable seating areas.

Airfield Improvements

Runway Rehabilitation: AZA is planning to rehabilitate its runways to ensure they remain in good condition and can safely accommodate aircraft.
Taxiway Improvements: The airport is also working to improve its taxiways, making it easier for aircraft to move around the airfield.
New Air Traffic Control Tower: A new air traffic control tower is planned to enhance safety and efficiency of air operations at AZA.

Cargo Development

Cargo Facilities: AZA is exploring opportunities to develop cargo facilities to attract cargo airlines and support the growing demand for air cargo services in the region.

Aerospace and Aviation Industry Development

Aviation-Related Businesses: AZA is actively working to attract aviation-related businesses to the airport, such as aircraft maintenance providers, flight schools, and aerospace manufacturers.
Educational Partnerships: The airport is also partnering with local educational institutions to develop aviation-related training programs and workforce development initiatives.

Economic Impact

Job Creation: The expansion and development projects at AZA are expected to create numerous jobs in the construction, aviation, and tourism industries.
Increased Tourism: The airport’s growth is also expected to boost tourism in the East Valley region, generating additional revenue for local businesses.

By investing in these expansion and development projects, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is positioning itself to become a major economic engine for the East Valley and a leading airport in the Southwest.

9. Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience at Mesa (AZA)

Navigating any airport can be stressful, but here are tips for a smoother experience at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport:

Arrive Early: AZA is generally less crowded than PHX, but arriving at least 90 minutes before your flight is still wise, especially if checking bags.
Check TSA Wait Times: Monitor TSA wait times online or via the MyTSA app.
Know the Baggage Rules: Familiarize yourself with the baggage restrictions of your airline, especially if flying Allegiant.
Utilize Online Check-In: Check in online to save time at the airport.
Pre-Book Parking: Consider pre-booking your parking online, especially during peak seasons.
Bring Entertainment: AZA is smaller, so bring a book, download movies, or load up your playlist.

10. Addressing Common Questions About Airlines Flying Into Mesa, AZ

Let’s address some frequently asked questions about airlines flying into Mesa, AZ (AZA):

What airlines fly direct to Mesa, Arizona?

Currently, Allegiant Air is the primary airline offering direct flights into Mesa, Arizona (AZA). Sun Country Airlines offers flights on a seasonal basis, so be sure to check their website for details.

Are there any international flights from Mesa Airport?

As of now, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport primarily handles domestic flights. If you’re looking for international flights, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is your best bet.

How do I find cheap flights to Mesa, AZ?

Use flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak. Be flexible with your travel dates, fly mid-week, and consider budget airlines like Allegiant Air.

Is Mesa Airport easy to navigate?

Yes, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is known for its ease of navigation. It’s smaller and less crowded than larger airports like Phoenix Sky Harbor, making it a more relaxed travel experience.

What transportation options are available from Mesa Airport?

You can rent a car, use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or take a taxi. Public transportation options are limited but available.

Where can I find updated information about which airlines fly into Mesa?

The best sources for updated information are the airlines’ websites (Allegiant Air, Sun Country Airlines) and the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport website.

Are there any new airlines planning to fly into Mesa?

Keep an eye on aviation news and the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport website for announcements about new airlines or routes.

Are there any direct flights from Canada to Mesa, AZ?

As of now, there are no direct flights from Canada to Mesa, AZ (AZA). Passengers would have to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Is it cheaper to fly into Mesa or Phoenix?

It depends on the airline, time of year, and destination. Allegiant Air often offers very competitive rates into Mesa, but factor in any extra fees for baggage or seat selection.

What time does the Mesa Airport open?

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

By addressing these common questions, travelers can feel more informed and prepared when planning their trip to Mesa, Arizona.

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