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Gilbert, Arizona, has a handful of budget airlines that really make travel more affordable and, honestly, a bit easier for folks around here. Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Allegiant Air are some of the main low-cost carriers serving this area.
These airlines give you choices that help you save cash without giving up on the basics you actually need when you travel.
Plenty of these airlines also have deals for flights to nearby airports like Phoenix Sky Harbor, so you’re not stuck with just one option. If you pick the right airline, you can snag low fares and a decent level of service, plus a bunch of different routes that fit your plans.
Key Takeways
- Affordable flights are available from several budget airlines in Gilbert.
- You’ve got flexible options for nearby airports, which is super convenient.
- Comparing airlines can really help you save while still getting what you need.
Top Budget Airlines Serving Gilbert, Arizona
You’ll find a few budget airlines flying near Gilbert, usually through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport or Mesa Gateway Airport. These airlines have both direct and connecting flights, which can really help keep travel costs down, whether you’re flying for work or just to get away.
Major Carriers with Affordable Fares
Some of the bigger airlines offer budget-friendly flights to and from the Phoenix area, which is handy for people living in Gilbert. Southwest Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines all have competitive prices and lots of flights through Phoenix Sky Harbor.
Southwest is a favorite because they don’t charge change fees and often have some of the lowest fares to big cities. Delta and American run specials, too, depending on when you book and what season it is.
You can usually find one-way tickets for around $124 on American, if you catch it at the right time. These airlines strike a balance between price and convenience, so you’ve got plenty of options for domestic trips—including some nonstop flights from Phoenix.
Emerging Low-Cost Airlines
Some smaller airlines are popping up in the Phoenix area to give budget-minded travelers more choices. Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines have grown their routes to include Gilbert and airports close by.
Allegiant goes after less-common airports and keeps their base fares low, but you’ll pay extra for things like bags or picking your seat. Frontier is all about ultra-low fares, but yeah, watch out for the add-ons.
If you plan ahead or don’t mind flying at odd times, you can sometimes get flights for under $50 on these airlines. They usually fly out of Mesa Gateway Airport, which is actually closer to Gilbert than Phoenix Sky Harbor.
Direct and Connecting Flight Options
When you’re booking flights near Gilbert, you’ll see a mix of direct flights and some that require a connection—mostly through Phoenix Sky Harbor. Direct flights are easier, but sometimes cost a bit more.
If you can be flexible with your timing, connecting flights might save you money, though they’ll take longer. Southwest and Delta have a bunch of nonstop routes, but budget carriers like Frontier sometimes send you through other hubs.
To really get the best deal, compare both direct and connecting flights. Use filters on booking sites to sort by price, travel time, and layovers, so you can find what actually works for you.
Choosing the Best Budget Flights to Arizona
If you’re hunting for budget flights to Arizona, it’s worth comparing prices and flight times pretty closely. Reliable booking tools and a few smart tricks can help you land the lowest fares.
Comparing Prices and Schedules
To get the best budget flight, check a few airlines and play around with flight times. Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest usually have the cheapest tickets.
Flights at weird hours—think super early or late at night—are often less expensive. Sites like Skyscanner make it easy to compare prices across a bunch of airlines at once.
Watch out for really long layovers, though. Sometimes a cheap ticket isn’t worth it if you end up losing half a day.
Booking Platforms and Tools
Booking sites like Skyscanner, Expedia, or Kayak let you search and compare flights, and you can set up alerts for price drops. You can also filter for things like baggage fees or how long the flight actually takes.
Sometimes, airlines will have exclusive discounts if you book right on their website. It’s worth checking both third-party sites and the airline’s own page before you commit.
Tips for Scoring Lowest Airfares
Try to book your flight a few weeks ahead if you can. Prices usually go up as the departure date gets closer.
If you’re flexible with your travel dates or which airport you use near Gilbert—like Phoenix Sky Harbor—you’ll probably find better deals. Clearing your browser cookies or using private browsing can sometimes keep prices from creeping up after repeat searches.
Traveling with just a carry-on helps, too, since a lot of budget airlines charge for checked bags. Set up fare alerts and watch for last-minute sales from airlines like Spirit and Frontier if your schedule isn’t set in stone.
Travel Through Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport on a Budget
Flying through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport doesn’t have to be pricey if you know a few tricks. From getting around the terminals to picking cheaper ground transportation, a little planning goes a long way.
Navigating Terminal Facilities
Phoenix Sky Harbor has three terminals: Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4. Most budget airlines—like Frontier and Spirit—fly out of Terminal 4.
Terminal 4 has the basics: free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and some food spots that won’t break the bank. To save a bit more, use the airport’s free Sky Train, which connects all the terminals and parking garages.
That way, you don’t have to shell out for taxis or shuttles just to get around the airport. Double-check your airline and terminal before you show up, so you’re not stuck with long walks or extra transfers. It’ll save you time and a bit of hassle.
Ground Transportation and Connections
You can save a decent chunk on ground transportation if you go with public transit or shared rides instead of taxis. The Valley Metro Light Rail links Phoenix Sky Harbor to downtown Phoenix and nearby spots, and the fares are cheap.
If you’re driving, check out the economy parking lots—they’re a bit farther from the terminals, but not bad. The airport runs free shuttle buses from those lots, so you won’t be stranded.
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft pick up at marked spots outside each terminal. It’s worth comparing prices, and if you’re traveling with someone, splitting the fare can make a real difference.
Tips to save on transport:
| Option | Approximate Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valley Metro Rail | $2 – $4 | Connects to downtown & Gilbert |
| Economy Parking | $8 – $10 per day | Free shuttle service to terminals |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | $15 – $25 typical | Price varies by time and demand |