In my previous blog I mentioned that great airfare deals are available (even during the busy holiday travel season) provided you remain “flexible” with your travel plans. In addition to being flexible with your departure and return dates and times, it’s also helpful to consider flying in or out of alternate airports.
For example, I live near two major airports in Wisconsin—–Milwaukee and Madison. So when I can’t get an affordable fare when I plug in one, I then check fares at the other. Some alternative airports are quite convenient; others are a stretch. For instance, I could fly out of Chicago’s O-Hare International Airport, which requires driving 2.5 hours—-BUT doing so usually yields major savings in the price of my ticket. If you are looking for a travel deal this holiday season and have the means to get to an alternative airport I would highly recommend doing so—especially if it will save you more than $50.
To make things easier for you I have listed several alternative airports in and around major U.S. cities. Take a look:
CHICAGO
Main airports: O’Hare and Midway.
Alternative Airports: Chicago Rockford International Airport. It’s located about 90 minutes from downtown Chicago. Milwaukee is about the same distance and should also be considered.
LOS ANGELES
Main airport: Los Angeles International (LAX)
Alternative Airports: Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California. It’s a preferred airport for residents living in Glendale, Pasadena, Altadena, and easier to use than LAX. Long Beach Airport is another alternative. It’s located about 15 miles from downtown L.A. It is also the primary Los Angeles airport for JetBlue. L.A./Ontario International Airport is another choice. It is located about 35 miles from central L.A., though many commercial carriers do not service it.
NEW YORK
Main airports: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark.
Alternative Airports: Long Island MacArthur Airport, Islip is located approximately 50 miles from Manhattan. It’s New York’s only option for Southwest and you can take the train into the city. Westchester County Airport, located in White Plains, New York is roughly 30 miles from Manhattan. It is a hub for JetBlue. Stewart International Airport is located in Newburgh, which is about 55 miles from Manhattan. AirTran and Jet Blue service this airport.
Relarted Articles:
Is There Still a Way to Save on Holiday Travel?
Why You Shouldn’t Wait To Make Holiday Travel Plans
Ways to Save on Holiday Travel
Holiday Travel-Good News, Bad News
A New Tool In The Battle To Find Cheap Airline Seats
Online Airfares–Finding the Best Deal
Airline Secrets Revealed: Affordable First-Class Fares
Travel Tidbits: Airline Tickets for $10… Now We’re Cooking
Travel Savings—Rental Cars and Destinations