Planning a trip to the beautiful island of Key West? One of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: “Where Do You Fly Into For Key West?” The answer is Key West International Airport (EYW), your primary gateway to this stunning destination in the Florida Keys. This article will give you a comprehensive overview of Key West International Airport and what you need to know to plan your flights.
Key West International Airport (EYW): Your Main Access Point
Key West International Airport is the main airport serving the Florida Keys, located right on the island of Key West. Owned and operated by Monroe County, EYW is a vital transportation hub for both tourists and residents. In 2018, it served approximately 870,000 passengers, showcasing its importance as the entry point for visitors eager to explore Key West.
A welcoming sign at Key West International Airport greets passengers arriving in Key West, Florida.
EYW offers direct flights to a variety of major US cities, making it easily accessible from many locations. You can find direct flights from airlines like Delta, American, United, and Silver Airways connecting Key West to:
- Atlanta
- Newark
- Chicago
- Charlotte
- Dallas
- Washington, D.C.
- Fort Lauderdale
- Orlando
- Tampa
- Miami
- Philadelphia
- New York City
This extensive list of direct destinations means that whether you’re coming from the East Coast, the Midwest, or the South, reaching Key West is convenient and straightforward.
Expansion and Future Growth at Key West Airport
Key West International Airport is not resting on its laurels. Recognizing the increasing popularity of Key West as a destination, the airport has been proactively planning for future growth. The Key West International Airport Master Plan Update, approved in 2018, outlines development plans for the short, medium, and long term. This forward-thinking plan anticipates an average annual air traffic growth rate of 2.4% over the next 20 years. By 2035, the airport is projected to handle between 1.1 to 1.2 million passengers annually.
To accommodate this growth, a terminal expansion project is in the works within the next 6-10 years. This expansion will build upon the existing terminal and include a new departure lounge with more space for passengers, enhanced concessions, and jet bridges to improve passenger safety and the overall travel experience. Furthermore, the airport is committed to incorporating sea-level rise considerations into all future projects, as demonstrated by the recent runway improvement project that elevated the runway by 6 inches.
Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH): An Alternative?
While Key West International Airport (EYW) is your primary airport for visiting Key West, it’s worth briefly mentioning Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH). Located in Marathon, in the Middle Keys, MTH is primarily a general aviation facility. It caters to aeronautical, emergency, business, and ground transportation services for the Middle Keys community.
For most tourists specifically heading to Key West, flying into Key West International Airport (EYW) is overwhelmingly the most convenient and direct option. Marathon Airport mainly serves smaller, private aircraft and might be relevant for those with specific private aviation needs or those staying in the Marathon area of the Keys.
Conclusion: Fly Directly into Key West for the Easiest Access
In summary, when planning your trip to Key West, your best and most direct option is to fly into Key West International Airport (EYW). With its numerous direct flights from major US cities and ongoing expansion plans, EYW is well-equipped to welcome you to this island paradise and provide a smooth start to your Key West vacation. Choosing EYW ensures you arrive right in Key West, ready to begin your adventure without any additional travel from other airports.
