Cheap Flights to Balsam, NC

Popular airlines to Balsam

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Alternative airports near Balsam

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to Balsam

Flights to Balsam at a glance

Getting to Balsam is a breeze; you can select from both full-service and budget airlines. Compare travel times to find the best fit for your budget and itinerary, allowing you to explore the city's iconic sights and charming neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Balsam: Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
  • Flights per week: 1,300+ flights arriving at Balsam airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Balsam: around 5+ carriers

Popular airport near Balsam

Balsam is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and options for romance and family fun. Travelers can easily access Balsam via a major airport, making it a convenient destination for memorable getaways.

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL): Situated in Buncombe County, North Carolina, approximately 31 miles from Balsam, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. It connects travelers to over 140 domestic cities and more than 15 international locations. Passengers have the option to upgrade to first class or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, based on the airline and route. Major airlines operating here include American Airlines, Delta, and United.

Top routes to Balsam

  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Balsam (AVL), with one-way flights starting at around $90
  • Boston (BOS) to Balsam (AVL), with one-way flights starting at around $90
  • Chicago (ORD) to Balsam (AVL), with one-way tickets available from around $100
  • Newark (EWR) to Balsam (AVL), with one-way airfare from around $100
  • Denver (DEN) to Balsam (AVL), with one-way fares starting at around $130

Cheapest routes to Balsam

  • Minneapolis (MSP) to Balsam (AVL), with budget one-way fares from around $65
  • Miami (MIA) to Balsam (AVL), with affordable one-way prices from around $80
  • Boston (BOS) to Balsam (AVL), with cheap one-way fares from around $90
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Balsam (AVL), with affordable one-way prices from around $90
  • Cleveland (CLE) to Balsam (AVL), with low one-way fares from around $95

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

Top airlines with flights to Balsam

  • American Airlines: Operating flights to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), this airline represents roughly 53% of arrivals to Balsam. The typical one-way fare is around $250, with the option for first class service available on select routes.
  • Delta: Serving Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), Delta accounts for about 33% of Balsam arrivals. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $270, with premium service options including both premium economy and first class, depending on the specific route.
  • United: Also flying into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), United facilitates approximately 13% of arrivals to Balsam. The average cost of a one-way flight is about $280, and first class service may be available on certain routes.
  • JetBlue Airways: JetBlue operates flights to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) as well, with an average one-way fare of around $200 for travelers.
  • Sun Country Airlines: This airline also flies to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), offering an average one-way fare of about $90, making it a budget-friendly option for many travelers.

Best time to fly to Balsam

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Balsam are March, April, and October, when peak temperatures in Balsam can reach up to 52.9°F in October. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 62.6°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $223, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, June, and July offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $224 to $237, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$255
February37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$242
March43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$281
April50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$262
May58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$241
June65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$235
July68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$237
August67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$223
September62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$224
October52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$251
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$265
December38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$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 Balsam

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Balsam 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 Balsam 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 Balsam flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Balsam

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Balsam, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Balsam is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Balsam 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 Balsam

  • Maggie Valley: Nestled 14 miles drive away from Balsam, Maggie Valley is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This charming city offers breathtaking mountain scenery and is renowned for its ski resorts and fields, making it a winter wonderland during the snowy months. Explore the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds for family-friendly events, or delve into local history at the Wheels Through Time Museum. Don’t miss the picturesque Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, a serene spot for relaxation or business gatherings alike.
  • Sylva: Located 11 miles drive away from Balsam, Sylva is a vibrant city that invites travelers to immerse themselves in its outdoor allure and scenic beauty. The area is perfect for recreational activities and boasts educational sites like Western Carolina University. For a taste of history, take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and for breathtaking views, hike up to Waterrock Knob, where adventure meets nature. Sylva is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.
  • Cullowhee: Situated 16 miles drive away from Balsam, Cullowhee is a delightful destination that combines romance and outdoor adventure. This city is home to the modern Western Carolina University and offers stunning natural landscapes. Spend your day at Lake Glenville, known for its scenic beauty and perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing beach day. The Tuckasegee River also provides excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.

Tips for short-haul flights to Balsam

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, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits efficiently. This also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—short-haul flights frequently lack in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, aim to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account 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 Balsam

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

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may even permit seat selection earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have 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. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and readily available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and 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 Balsam?
Plan your trip for if you want to get a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Balsam. If possible, avoid traveling during peak periods such as school vacation time or public holidays.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Balsam?
Land cheap flights to Balsam from Charlotte, Chicago and Atlanta. These cities usually offer the best fares to this exciting destination. But bear in mind that holiday periods, demand and stopovers will also have an impact on rates, so remain flexible and book when prices are right.
Which US cities fly direct to Balsam?
There are 19 US destinations where you can fly to Balsam nonstop from. Compare the options by selecting the "Direct flights only" filter on Expedia and pick the ideal starting point for you. Here are a few of the top cities to head out from:

  • Charlotte
  • Chicago
  • Atlanta
  • Washington
  • Dallas

How to find a cheap flight to Balsam?
If you're looking for cheap flights to Balsam, consider traveling in the low season. Booking in advance may also save you money. Or, fly on a different day — flights on a Thursday are on average 16% cheaper than Sunday departures.* Sign up to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and you'll be instantly notified 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 Balsam?
It's possible to get awesome deals on last-minute flights to Balsam, especially if your travel arrangements are flexible. Think about jetting out of a different airport, changing your trip dates or selecting another carrier to get a cheap flight to Balsam.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Balsam?
Lock in your flight to Balsam two to four months ahead if you're jetting in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the general guideline is 28 days in advance. Cheaper tickets and a wider variety of departure dates, times and seating options are just a few of the benefits of booking early.**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 Balsam?
Sundays are generally the best day to book a cheap flight to Balsam, with savings of about 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you purchase tickets on a Friday, expect to spend more as this is typically the most expensive day.**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 airlines fly to Balsam?
A total of 4 airlines connect 13 airports all over the world to Balsam. Here are some of the major airlines to Balsam, where McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the major entry point:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines
  • Frontier Airlines

Where do you fly into Balsam?
If you're flying to Balsam, the main airport to land at is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). You can also jet into nearby hubs like McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), Greenville-Spartanburg Intl. Airport (GSP) or Gatlinburg, TN (GKT-Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge). Another option worth keeping in mind when you fly to Balsam is Pickens, SC (LQK-Pickens County).
How far is the airport from central Balsam?
If you're arriving at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), you'll be roughly 30 mi east of the center of Balsam.
Can I save money by booking a Balsam trip package?
Bundle your accommodations and flights and you could save hundreds of dollars. What's more, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Balsam flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's a breeze to manage all your Balsam travel plans in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Balsam?
You can typically change or cancel your flight to Balsam within 24 hours of booking. However, keep in mind that some fares are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued a credit toward future travel in place of a direct refund. It's important to check the airline's terms and conditions in your itinerary for exact details. You can use Expedia's "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search to find cheap flights to Balsam with flexible change policies. For more information, head to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Balsam
Destination airport IATA code
TYS

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