Cheap Flights to Altoona, WI

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Popular airlines to Altoona

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What you need to know for your flight to Altoona

Flights to Altoona at a glance

Traveling to Altoona is easy—simply choose between full-service and budget airlines, compare travel times, and select the option that best fits your budget and schedule as you plan to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Altoona: Rochester International Airport (RST), La Crosse Municipal Airport (LSE), Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU)
  • Closest airport to Altoona: Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, EAU (around 4 miles)
  • Flights per week: 800+ flights arriving across Altoona airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Altoona: around 4 carriers

Popular airports near Altoona

Altoona is a charming city perfect for outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, and scenic vacations. Travelers flock to Altoona for its beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and urban atmosphere. The city is conveniently served by three major airports.

  • Rochester International Airport (RST): Situated in Olmsted County, Minnesota, approximately 81 miles from Altoona, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking to over 75 domestic locations and 3 global destinations. Travelers can opt for premium economy or first-class seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. American Airlines and Delta are prominent carriers at this airport.
  • La Crosse Municipal Airport (LSE): Found in La Crosse County, Wisconsin, about 65 miles from Altoona, this airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting to around 20 cities nationwide. Passengers have the option to upgrade to first-class service for additional comfort, depending on their chosen airline and route. American Airlines is a key airline operating here.
  • Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU): Located in Chippewa County, Wisconsin, just 4 miles from Altoona, this regional airport facilitates domestic flights to over 10 cities across the country. United and Sun Country Airlines are among the major airlines that operate from this airport, providing travelers with various options for their journeys.

Top routes to Altoona

  • Chicago (ORD) to Altoona (RST/EAU), with one-way flights starting at around $90
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Altoona (RST/LSE/EAU), with one-way flight options from around $120
  • Boston (BOS) to Altoona (RST/LSE/EAU), with one-way flight options from around $120
  • Washington (IAD/DCA) to Altoona (RST/LSE), with one-way tickets available from around $110
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Altoona (RST/LSE/EAU), with one-way flight options from around $110

Cheapest routes to Altoona

  • Fort Myers (RSW) to Altoona (RST/EAU), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $70
  • Chicago (ORD) to Altoona (RST/EAU), with budget one-way fares from around $90
  • Detroit (DTW) to Altoona (RST/EAU), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $100
  • Denver (DEN) to Altoona (RST), with affordable one-way prices from around $110
  • Washington (IAD/DCA) to Altoona (RST/LSE), with budget one-way fares from around $110

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Altoona

  • American Airlines: Offers flights to Rochester International Airport (RST) and La Crosse Municipal Airport (LSE), representing about 51% of arrivals to Altoona. One-way fares typically average around $280, with potential first-class service available based on the route.
  • Delta: Provides service to Rochester International Airport (RST), holding roughly 40% of the arrivals to Altoona. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $270, and premium cabin options may include both premium economy and first class, depending on the specific route.
  • United: Flies into Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU), contributing approximately 8% of the total arrivals to Altoona. Travelers can expect one-way fares to average around $190.
  • Sun Country Airlines: Also servicing Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU), this airline accounts for nearly 1% of arrivals to Altoona, with average one-way fares around $160.

Best time to fly to Altoona

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Altoona are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Altoona can reach up to 42.6°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 61.5°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $254, roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August, July, and June offer average one-way fares of around $270, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January14.4°F (-9.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately High$294
February16.2°F (-8.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverage$281
March31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$308
April42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$292
May56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$254
June66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$274
July70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$270
August68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$265
September61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$282
October47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$286
November34.0°F (1.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$289
December21.4°F (-5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$282

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Altoona

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Altoona is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Altoona hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Altoona flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Altoona

Altoona welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Altoona efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From La Crosse Municipal Airport, several key transport options are just a short drive away. La Crosse Station, a train station, is located about 5.2 miles from the airport, while La Crosse, Wisconsin Seaport, a seaport, and La Crosse Queen Cruise Dock, a cruise terminal, are both about 6.8 miles away by car, making them easily accessible for travelers.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Altoona, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Altoona is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Altoona on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Altoona

  • Eau Claire: Eau Claire is located 3 miles drive away from Altoona. This vibrant city is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, couples seeking romance, and families looking for shared experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, with highlights including the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, a modern college campus perfect for exploring, and the scenic beauty of nearby lakes and national state parks. Cultural experiences abound at the Pablo Center at the Confluence, while the tranquil environments offer relaxation through body treatments and recreational areas.
  • Seymour: Seymour is located 2 miles away from Altoona. This charming village is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor beauty and scenic vistas, making it a perfect spot for couples and families alike. Visitors can explore local attractions, including the historic University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, which offers engaging activities for families. Seymour’s proximity to national state parks and lakes enhances its appeal, inviting travelers to enjoy leisurely strolls and beautiful landscapes while discovering delightful shopping centers.
  • Eastside Hill: Eastside Hill is located 2 miles drive away from Altoona. This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for cultural experiences, blending city life with outdoor adventures. Travelers can immerse themselves in the arts at the Pablo Center at the Confluence or enjoy a family outing at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire. With the beautiful backdrop of a lake and river, Eastside Hill also offers opportunities for education and exploration at the nearby University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, making it an enriching destination for all types of visitors.

Tips for short-haul flights to Altoona

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by choosing mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits thoughtfully. This approach also allows you to bypass waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book as well. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to get to the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Altoona

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines allow you to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Altoona?
is the cheapest month to fly to Altoona. There's less demand then, so fares are generally more affordable. Planning your trip outside of school breaks and public holidays could also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Altoona?
Minneapolis - St. Paul typically has cheap flights to Altoona. Remember that fares can vary based on factors like seasonality, demand and number of stopovers.
Which US cities fly direct to Altoona?
Fly to Altoona directly from Minneapolis - St. Paul. It's the only US city offering nonstop journeys to Altoona. Simply select "Direct flights only" when looking on Expedia to view all available departures.
How to find a cheap flight to Altoona?
Book in advance to increase your chances of finding cheap flights to Altoona. Also, consider traveling during off-season months like January and February. If you fly on a Thursday, you can save 16% on average compared to departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and track your flight prices using the Expedia app. We'll notify you when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Altoona?
It's possible to get cheap deals on last-minute flights to Altoona, especially if your plans aren't set in stone. Think about departing from a different airport, changing your trip dates or picking an alternative carrier to get a cheap flight to Altoona.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Altoona?
Find the departure dates you want and a price that suits your budget by booking your domestic flight to Altoona up to 28 days in advance. Lock in tickets two to four months ahead if you're traveling to Altoona from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Altoona?
You can save an average of 8% if you buy tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to getting a cheap flight to Altoona, it's all about timing.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Where do you fly into Altoona?
The main airport to fly to Altoona is Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU). You can also land at Rice Lake, WI (RIE-Rice Lake Regional) when flying to Altoona.
How far is the airport from central Altoona?
Landing at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU) puts you about 4 mi northwest of the center of Altoona.
Can I save money by booking an Altoona trip package?
Book an Altoona flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could benefit from significant savings. It's a breeze to bundle your accommodations and flights, and you can also add car rentals and activities to create your own customized Altoona getaway. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Altoona?
If you booked your flight to Altoona within the last 24 hours, you can often change or cancel it without fees. After that, additional costs may apply depending on the airline's terms and conditions. To learn more, head to our Customer Service Portal. Remember that some flights are non-refundable, so you may receive a credit for future flights rather than a direct refund. When searching on Expedia, use the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters to find tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Altoona
Destination airport IATA code
EAU

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