How to Get to Flagstaff. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Flights to Flagstaff

Airport Options

Air travel is a common way to reach Flagstaff, with choices between a small local airport and a major international hub. Your decision influences convenience, flight options, and transfer times.

Phoenix Sky Harbor PHX

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG): A small regional airport located approximately 5 miles south of downtown Flagstaff. It gives direct access to the city but has limited flight options.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): A major international airport roughly 145 miles (233 km) south of Flagstaff, a 2 to 2.5-hour drive. PHX serves as the main gateway for most travelers to Flagstaff.
Direct international flights to Flagstaff are very limited. International travelers typically connect through larger U.S. Hubs like PHX, DFW, or DEN.

Airlines & Routes

PHX serves as a major hub with extensive flight choices and competitive pricing.

Connecting Flights

To FLG: Mainly American Airlines (through American Eagle) with direct flights to Phoenix (PHX) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). United Airlines offers seasonal service to Denver (DEN).
To PHX: Phoenix Sky Harbor is a major hub for American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. All major U.S. Carriers serve it. Several international airlines also fly directly to PHX.
Flight prices to FLG are higher due to limited service. Prices fluctuate significantly based on season, highest during summer, fall foliage, and major winter holidays.

Flight Savings

Utilize Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts and Skyscanner for comparing prices.

Seasonal Pricing

Book well in advance for better rates. Prices peak during major holidays, spring break, and warm winter months.

Airport Facilities

FLG: Basic. PHX: Extensive dining, shopping, lounges, car rental center, ground transport.

Transfer Options from Airports

From FLG Flagstaff Pulliam Airport

Taxis/Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): Readily available outside the terminal.
Rental Cars: Desks for major agencies (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, National) are directly in the terminal.
Hotel Shuttles: Some Flagstaff hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles. Check with your accommodation provider.

From PHX Phoenix Sky Harbor to Flagstaff

Rental Cars: Most common and recommended for flexibility. Rental car center at PHX is accessible by shuttle. Consider DiscoverCars.com.
Shuttle Services: Groome Transportation is a popular, reliable choice. Reservations highly recommended.
Private Car Service: For a more direct and personalized transfer, at a higher cost.

Road & Rail Connections

Train Connections

Flagstaff is a stop on Amtrak's Southwest Chief route, running daily between Chicago and Los Angeles. The station is downtown.

Long-Distance Bus

Greyhound operates routes to and from Flagstaff. The station is near downtown. FlixBus also offers connections.

Self-Driving

Flagstaff is at the intersection of I-17 (to Phoenix) and I-40 (east-west, Route 66). Valid U.S. Or foreign driver's license. IDP recommended if foreign license not in English.

Road Conditions & Safety

Seasonal Conditions

Road conditions vary significantly by season.

Summer Driving

Roads are generally good.
Afternoon monsoon thunderstorms cause temporary localized flooding or slick road surfaces.
Wildlife: Watch for deer and elk, especially at dusk and dawn, on roads outside city limits.

Winter Driving

Prepare for snow and ice on roads.

Snow & Ice

Roads get snow-packed and icy, especially on mountain passes.
Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) plows major routes regularly.
Check AZ511.gov for current road conditions, closures, and chain requirements before driving.

General Driving Safety

Adhere to U.S. Driving laws for a safe trip.

Rules

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Obey posted speed limits.

Cell Phone & Emergency

Stay focused and prepared.

Safety Measures

Arizona law prohibits using handheld cell phones while driving.
Carry an Emergency kit in your car if traveling in winter.
Chain requirements may be enforced on mountain passes during winter storms. Some rental companies may not allow chains.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry services and cruise ports: Not applicable to Flagstaff, an inland city with no access to oceans, major rivers for cruise ships, or ferry services.
River transportation options: Not applicable. While Arizona has rivers, they do not serve as commercial transportation routes to Flagstaff.

Immigration procedures at seaports: Not applicable, as visitors do not arrive in Flagstaff via seaport.
Connections to land transportation: Not applicable for sea/river arrivals to Flagstaff.

Your Departure

Departure Checklist

The United States does not impose specific departure taxes or exit fees for travelers departing from Flagstaff or any U.S. Airport. Any fees typically appear in your airline ticket price.

Departure Procedures & Timing

From FLG: Arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before scheduled domestic flight. Security lines are short.
From PHX: For domestic flights, plan 2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 3 hours before. Security lines get long.
Allow ample time for returning a rental car, as the rental car center needs a shuttle ride to the terminals.

Airport & Station Facilities

Know what to expect at your departure point.

Terminal Amenities

FLG: Facilities are limited (small waiting area, restrooms). Dining and shopping are minimal.
PHX: Offers a full range of facilities, including diverse dining, retail shops, charging stations, and various services.
Amtrak/Greyhound: Arrive at the respective station at least 30-45 minutes before departure for boarding and ticket checks.

Departure Tip

For a smooth departure, always check your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station.

How to Get to Flagstaff