Closest Airports To The Grand Canyon: Your Guide

The Grand Canyon is a popular destination for tourists, but its remote location can make it difficult to get to. There are several airports near the Grand Canyon, and the best option for visitors depends on which rim of the canyon they plan to visit. The closest airport to the South Rim is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, which is a 90-minute drive away. However, this airport only services small planes and flights are often routed through other cities, making it a more expensive option. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the closest major airport to the Grand Canyon and is about a four-hour drive to the South Rim. Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas is a good option for those visiting the West Rim, as it is only a two-hour drive away. The North Rim is more difficult to access, but the closest airport is St. George Regional Airport in Utah, which is about a four-hour drive away.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)

The airport is easy to navigate and offers car rentals, taxis, private car services, and shuttles. Flagstaff itself is worth exploring, with its historic downtown, great food, and recreational activities in a picturesque mountain setting.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is ideal for those seeking a stress-free travel experience without the crowds of a large international airport. However, it is important to note that flights to this airport are often routed through Phoenix, Dallas/Fort Worth, or Denver, which may result in higher airfares.

The airport covers 763 acres at an elevation of 7,014 feet. It has one runway, which is 8,800 feet long and 150 feet wide. The terminal is currently undergoing improvement projects to enhance the traveller experience and support airline operations.

For those visiting the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport offers a convenient gateway, providing easy access to the South Rim, which is just a 90-minute drive away.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Firstly, PHX is Arizona's largest airport, offering a wide range of affordable flights and ground transportation options. It is also conveniently located, with a drive time of about four hours to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. There are two scenic routes to choose from when driving from PHX to the Grand Canyon. One route takes travellers through the Verde River Valley and up through ponderosa pine forests, while the other route offers the opportunity to visit historic towns and attractions such as Jerome, a former copper-mining town, and Sedona, known for its red rocks.

Travellers can also take a bus or shuttle from the airport to the Grand Canyon. The bus journey takes approximately six to seven hours, with transfers along the way. Additionally, there is the option to fly from PHX to Flagstaff and then take a bus to the Grand Canyon, reducing the total travel time.

When choosing an airport for a trip to the Grand Canyon, it is important to consider factors such as flight availability, ground transportation, and nearby attractions. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport offers convenience, affordability, and a range of travel options, making it a great choice for those planning a Grand Canyon vacation.

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

Harry Reid International Airport, formerly known as McCarran International Airport, is a great option for a trip to the Grand Canyon. The airport is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, and offers a convenient gateway to the canyon, especially if you're visiting the West Rim or the North Rim.

From Harry Reid International Airport, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is about a 4-hour drive. Alternatively, it's a 5-hour drive to the North Rim and a 2-hour drive to the West Rim, making it a more convenient option if you're planning to visit these areas. The airport is a hub for several low-cost airlines, including Allegiant, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit, so you can often find affordable fares.

In addition to its proximity to the Grand Canyon, Harry Reid International Airport also offers easy access to other popular destinations in the region, such as Bryce Canyon, Zion, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend. This makes it a great choice if you're looking to explore multiple areas during your trip.

Upon your arrival at the airport, you'll find a variety of ground transportation options to choose from, including car rentals, taxis, and shuttles. The airport also offers a range of amenities and services to meet your needs during your travel.

Overall, Harry Reid International Airport is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the Grand Canyon and other nearby attractions. Its convenient location, coupled with the availability of affordable flights and ground transportation options, makes it a great option for travellers seeking a balance of convenience and fun during their Grand Canyon adventure.

St. George Regional Airport (SGU)

The airport covers 1,204 acres and has a single runway, measuring 9,300 by 150 feet, and a 35,000-square-foot terminal. It is served by SkyWest Airlines, with code-sharing flights operated on behalf of American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The top routes from SGU are to Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Dallas/Fort Worth, Ogden, and Las Vegas.

The airport was opened on January 13, 2011, as a replacement for the smaller St. George Municipal Airport, which was declared unsuitable for expansion due to its location atop a mesa in the city. The new airport was built on a site chosen about 6 miles southeast of downtown St. George at an abandoned airfield. An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the airport concluded that the impact on the environment and noise pollution would be minimal.

In the 12 months ending August 4, 2020, the airport had 80,105 aircraft operations, averaging 219 per day, with 86% general aviation, 3% air taxi, 8% airline, and 2% military. As of 2023, the airport has been approved for the FAA Contract Tower Program, and if the city builds an air traffic control tower in the next 5 years, the FAA will staff it at no cost to the city or airport.

Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN)

Grand Canyon National Park Airport (IATA: GCN, ICAO: KGCN, FAA LID: GCN) is a state-owned public-use airport located in Tusayan, CDP in unincorporated Coconino County, Arizona, United States. It is the only state-owned airport in the state. The airport is located seven miles from the South Rim and two miles from the park entrance.

The airport is primarily used for scenic tours and charter flights. It is currently the fourth most active air carrier airport in Arizona, serving 41,161 aircraft operations in the 12-month period ending December 31, 2021. The airport covers an area of 859 acres at an elevation of 6,609 ft above mean sea level. It has one runway measuring 8,999 ft × 150 ft.

The current airport is built on the site of the first Grand Canyon Airport, which was authorised by the U.S. Forest Service for commercial flights in 1925. The new airport first opened in October 1965, with the terminal being completed and dedicated in October 1967.

Several airlines have operated scheduled passenger jet services to the airport in the past, including Air West, Hughes Airwest, Republic Airlines, TriStar Airlines, and America West Airlines.

Frequently asked questions