Best Airlines Flying from Albuquerque New Mexico Airport

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the largest commercial airport in New Mexico and serves as the primary gateway to the Southwest. With its unique blend of cultural flair and modern amenities, ABQ provides a convenient and comfortable starting point for travelers heading across the United States and beyond. In this guide, we’ll explore the best airlines flying from Albuquerque, what routes they offer, and how to make your travel experience seamless.

Overview of Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

Located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque, Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the major airport for New Mexico residents and visitors. With over 5 million passengers served annually, the airport blends Pueblo Revival architecture with a full range of amenities, making it one of the most charming yet efficient regional airports in the country.

The airport features nonstop service to major cities across the U.S., with smooth connections to international destinations via airline hubs.

Airlines Operating from Albuquerque Sunport

ABQ is served by a mix of major U.S. airlines and low-cost carriers. As of now, the airlines flying out of Albuquerque include:

• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• United Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Spirit Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines

Each of these airlines brings different strengths, from premium service and business travel connectivity to low-cost, nonstop vacation options.

American Airlines – Business-Friendly Connectivity

American Airlines provides multiple daily flights from ABQ to key hubs such as:

• Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)
• Charlotte Douglas (CLT)

These connections give travelers access to American’s global network of destinations. It’s an excellent option for business travelers and those heading to the East Coast or internationally.

Benefits:

• Frequent flight schedules
• Access to AAdvantage® loyalty program
• Smooth international connections

Delta Air Lines – Reliable and Comfortable

Delta Air Lines connects Albuquerque to:

• Atlanta (ATL)
• Salt Lake City (SLC)

These routes allow passengers to reach the Southeast, Mountain West, and international destinations with ease. Known for its customer service and on-time performance, Delta is a favorite for both business and leisure travelers.

United Airlines – Midwest & West Coast Hubs

United offers nonstop service from ABQ to:

• Denver (DEN)
• Houston (IAH)
• Chicago O’Hare (ORD)

United’s extensive hub network means that travelers can easily connect to just about any U.S. city or international destination. United also has a strong presence for West Coast connections, particularly to California.

Southwest Airlines – Affordable and Abundant Options

Southwest Airlines is one of the largest carriers at Albuquerque International Sunport and offers a wide range of nonstop flights to cities like:

• Denver
• Phoenix
• Las Vegas
• Dallas (Love Field)
• Chicago (Midway)
• Los Angeles

With two free checked bags, no change fees, and frequent sales, Southwest is a go-to option for families, vacationers, and budget-conscious travelers.

Alaska Airlines – West Coast Expertise

Alaska Airlines provides service between ABQ and:

• Seattle/Tacoma (SEA)

From there, passengers can connect to popular destinations across the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and even Hawaii. Known for excellent customer satisfaction and perks like free texting onboard, Alaska Airlines is a great option for travelers heading to the upper left of the U.S.

JetBlue Airways – Select Coastal Routes

JetBlue operates limited but convenient flights from Albuquerque, including service to:

• New York (JFK)

This route is perfect for travelers heading to the Northeast, offering free Wi-Fi, great in-flight entertainment, and extra legroom in economy.

Spirit Airlines – Ultra-Low-Cost Options

Spirit Airlines caters to travelers looking for ultra-low base fares. From ABQ, Spirit typically flies to:

• Las Vegas
• Dallas/Fort Worth

While it’s a no-frills experience, Spirit allows budget travelers to customize their travel and save money—ideal for quick getaways.

Sun Country Airlines – Seasonal Leisure Travel

Sun Country occasionally offers seasonal flights to destinations like Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP). These flights are especially useful for summer travel or holiday trips and often include competitive pricing.

How to Find the Best Flights from Albuquerque

Make the most of your travel out of ABQ by using the following strategies:

• Compare prices across multiple airlines using tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper.
• Book early—especially for holidays and spring/summer travel.
• Sign up for fare alerts and frequent flyer programs.
• Consider flying mid-week for lower fares and more availability.

Alternatives to Albuquerque International Sunport

If you’re looking for additional options, nearby airports include:

• El Paso International Airport (ELP) – ~4 hours by car
• Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) – ~1 hour by car (limited flights)
• Amarillo Rick Husband International Airport (AMA) – ~4 hours

These airports may offer alternate routes, but ABQ generally remains the most comprehensive and accessible option for central New Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many airlines operate from Albuquerque Airport?
Eight major airlines currently offer service from ABQ.

Can I fly internationally from ABQ?
Not directly—there are no nonstop international flights, but ABQ offers easy one-stop connections through major hubs like DFW, DEN, and ATL.

Which airline is best for low-cost travel?
Southwest and Spirit typically offer the lowest fares from ABQ, depending on destination and flexibility.

Does Albuquerque Airport have good amenities?
Yes! ABQ features local restaurants, art exhibits, free Wi-Fi, and short TSA wait times.

Final Thoughts

Albuquerque International Sunport offers a surprising range of airline options for a mid-sized airport. Whether you’re looking for a quick, affordable trip or connecting to a far-flung destination, there’s a carrier at ABQ that fits your needs. From the value of Southwest and Spirit to the nationwide connectivity of American, Delta, and United, travelers have plenty of reliable options to choose from.

Planning your next adventure? Start at ABQ and enjoy a smooth, friendly, and flexible flying experience.