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Gilbert, Arizona sits close to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. The airport mostly handles domestic flights, but it does have a few international carriers in the mix.
The best international airlines serving Gilbert’s nearby airport include WestJet and Flair Airlines, connecting you to Canada and a handful of other destinations.
These airlines have built a reputation for reliable service and are slowly adding new destinations. If you want to fly internationally from Gilbert, knowing which airlines operate here is a must.
You’ll find a growing network of flights, though for the widest range of options, some folks still look to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Still, the Gateway airport keeps getting better at connecting travelers to international spots.
Key Takeways
- You have access to select international airlines near Gilbert.
- The airport offers growing international flight options.
- Airline choices affect routes and travel convenience.
Overview of International Airlines at Gilbert Arizona Airport
If you’re hoping to catch an international flight near Gilbert, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is your go-to. It’s mainly budget airlines running the show here.
Current International Flight Offerings
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is the closest spot for Gilbert residents looking for international flights. Most of the international service comes from airlines like Allegiant Air.
These flights usually head to Mexico and sometimes Central America. You won’t find many big-name global carriers here.
Allegiant offers direct, affordable flights to places like Cancun, Mexico City, and Cabo San Lucas. The terminal’s pretty easy to get around, and the smaller airport size often means less hassle at check-in.
History of International Service
International flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport have slowly picked up over the last decade. The airport started out with mostly domestic routes.
As budget airlines expanded, international flights increased, especially to vacation hotspots in Mexico.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport still handles most of the region’s major international flights. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway remains a more limited but super convenient alternative for folks in Gilbert.
Most Popular International Airlines Operating at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport only serves a handful of airlines, and just a couple fly internationally. Expect to see mostly budget carriers focusing on specific destinations.
Major International Carriers
The main airlines running international flights here are Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines. Both tend to cater to leisure travelers heading to popular vacation spots.
Allegiant Air has flights to Mexico and a few other nearby countries. Sun Country Airlines offers seasonal or scheduled flights to places like Cancun.
You won’t find big global airline hubs like American, Delta, or United here for international trips. But these smaller airlines do offer some affordable international options close to Gilbert.
Individual Airline Profiles
Allegiant Air is all about low fares and direct flights to international vacation spots. It connects Phoenix-Mesa Gateway to several Mexican cities, which is handy if you’re looking for a quick getaway.
Sun Country Airlines is also budget-friendly, with international flights mostly during busy travel seasons. Their routes are aimed at vacationers heading to Mexico.
Both airlines stick to a smaller number of routes. Schedules can change with the seasons or demand, so it’s worth double-checking before you book.
Flight Destinations and Connectivity
Gilbert doesn’t have its own international airport, but you’re not out of luck. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway and Phoenix Sky Harbor International are close enough to get you just about anywhere.
Direct International Routes
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway mostly serves domestic flights, so direct international options are limited. Most folks from Gilbert looking to go abroad end up at Sky Harbor, which is about 30 miles away.
At Sky Harbor, you’ll find direct flights to major cities in Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. Airlines like Air Canada and American Airlines run nonstop flights to places like Mexico, Canada, and across the Atlantic.
Trending International Destinations
Travelers from Gilbert often head to popular spots like Mexico City, Cancun, and Toronto, thanks to frequent flights out of Sky Harbor. Europe’s also picking up steam, with direct flights to places like London and Paris.
There’s been more interest in Asia lately, too. Connections to cities like Tokyo and Beijing are available through Sky Harbor.
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway is handy if you want to start with a domestic hop before connecting to these bigger international hubs.
Passenger Amenities and Experience With International Airlines
Flying internationally from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is pretty convenient. The airport mainly hosts domestic carriers, but the available amenities make the experience smoother than you might expect.
Lounge Access and Services
Lounge options at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway are limited, especially compared to bigger airports. Still, a few airlines and third-party providers offer access to premium waiting areas.
These lounges have comfy seating, free WiFi, and some snacks and drinks. If your airline partners with a larger hub, you might get lounge access during your connection—just keep your boarding pass and any membership cards handy.
Business travelers will find quiet spaces and workstations, which makes it easier to stay productive before boarding.
Onboard Experience
International airlines flying near Gilbert usually offer a pretty decent onboard experience. Comfort and service are the main focus.
You’ll get the basics: reclining seats, your own entertainment screen, and meals on longer flights. Nothing too fancy, but it does the job.
Most airlines throw in WiFi these days, so you can scroll or work while you’re up in the air. Sometimes the connection is spotty, but the big carriers try to keep things pleasant.
Flight attendants are there to help with whatever you need. If you’re stuck on a long haul, their support can make a real difference.