Sedona, Arizona, a destination famed for its breathtaking red rock formations, spiritual vortexes, and vibrant arts scene, beckons travelers from across the globe. Planning a trip to this desert oasis involves considering the crucial first step: Where To Fly Into For Sedona Arizona. While Sedona boasts a small airport, commercial flights are limited. This guide will navigate you through the best airport options to reach Sedona, ensuring a smooth start to your unforgettable Arizona adventure.
For those prioritizing proximity, Sedona Airport (KSEZ), perched dramatically atop a mesa just west of town, might seem like the most direct choice. However, it’s important to note that KSEZ caters primarily to private and charter aircraft. Currently, no commercial airlines offer scheduled flights into Sedona Airport. While scenic and convenient for private aviation, for most travelers asking “where to fly into for Sedona Arizona”, this isn’t the primary answer.
Aerial view of Sedona Arizona showcasing red rock formations
The closest commercial airport to Sedona is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), situated about 30 miles north, approximately a 40-minute drive through the stunning Oak Creek Canyon. FLG offers a more accessible option for those seeking commercial flights when considering “where to fly into for Sedona Arizona”. Served by both United Airlines and American Airlines, Flagstaff Airport provides connections through major hubs. You can find flights connecting through Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX), Denver International Airport (DEN), and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Choosing FLG means enjoying a scenic drive to Sedona right from the start of your trip.
However, for the majority of visitors wondering where to fly into for Sedona Arizona, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) emerges as the most popular and practical choice. As a major international airport, PHX offers a vast array of flight options from numerous cities and airlines, often at more competitive prices. Located approximately 119 miles south of Sedona, the drive from Phoenix to Sedona typically takes just over 2 hours, primarily via Interstate 17, offering a relatively straightforward and well-maintained route. Phoenix Sky Harbor is a bustling airport, ranking among the world’s busiest, ensuring a wide range of flight times and potentially direct flights depending on your origin. Ground transportation from PHX to Sedona is readily available, including shuttle services, rental cars, and ride-sharing options, making it a convenient gateway for your Sedona trip.
Another international airport to consider when deciding where to fly into for Sedona Arizona is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. While further away at approximately 292 miles and a 5-hour drive, LAS can be an attractive option, particularly for international travelers. Las Vegas Airport is a major hub for flights from Canada, Germany, Mexico, the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, offering nonstop international connections. If you find more affordable international flights into LAS, or if you plan to combine your Sedona trip with a visit to Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon (which is also accessible from Las Vegas), flying into LAS might be a viable, though longer, journey to Sedona.
Beyond flying directly into nearby airports, it’s worth briefly mentioning other transportation methods for reaching Sedona, even though our focus is on air travel and answering “where to fly into for Sedona Arizona”. Shuttle bus services, such as Groome Transportation, offer cost-effective transfers from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport directly to Sedona. Amtrak train services provide a scenic and relaxing option, although they require a transfer and are less direct. For those within driving distance, cities like Phoenix, Tucson, Las Vegas, and Albuquerque are all within a manageable drive of Sedona.
In conclusion, when planning your trip and considering where to fly into for Sedona Arizona, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) stands out as the most versatile and frequently used airport for visitors. It provides the best balance of flight availability, cost, and convenient ground transportation to Sedona. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) offers a closer, albeit smaller, commercial airport option with a scenic drive. Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) can be considered for specific international travelers or those combining their trip with other destinations. While Sedona Airport exists, its limited commercial service means it’s not a primary option for most travelers asking “where to fly into for Sedona Arizona”.
For more inspiration on your Sedona visit and to explore local attractions and tours, visit Wine Tours of Sedona.
