Cheap Flights to Decatur, IL

Popular airlines to Decatur

What you need to know for your flight to Decatur

Flights to Decatur at a glance

Traveling to Decatur is easy, with full-service airlines providing a variety of flight schedules. Explore the journey times to find the best flights to Decatur that align with your plans for discovering the city's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around Decatur: Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA), Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI), Decatur Airport (DEC)
  • Closest airport to Decatur: Decatur Airport, DEC (within Decatur)
  • Flights per week: 1,100+ flights arriving across Decatur airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Decatur: around 4 carriers

Popular airports in and around Decatur

Decatur is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, romantic getaways, and scenic vacations. Visitors flock to Decatur for its adventure-filled activities and family-friendly attractions. The city is conveniently served by three major airports, making travel planning easy and accessible for all.

  • Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA): Situated in Peoria County, Illinois, approximately 69 miles from Decatur, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking to over 85 domestic cities and 4 international destinations. Travelers can opt for first-class service for enhanced comfort based on the airline and route. Key airlines include American Airlines and United.
  • Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI): Found in McLean County, Illinois, about 44 miles from Decatur, this airport provides access to both domestic and international flights, connecting to more than 55 domestic cities and 2 international destinations. Travelers can upgrade to first class or premium economy seating for added comfort, with popular carriers like American Airlines, Delta, and Aeromexico.
  • Decatur Airport (DEC): Located in Macon County, Illinois, this airport focuses on domestic routes, offering connections to around 3 cities nationwide. The primary airline operating here is United, providing a convenient option for local travelers.

Top routes to Decatur

  • Dallas (DFW) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with one-way flights starting at around $130
  • Denver (DEN) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with one-way tickets available from around $100
  • Houston (IAH/HOU) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with one-way flight options from around $100
  • Seattle (SEA) to Decatur (PIA/BMI/DEC), with one-way fares starting at around $120
  • Atlanta (ATL) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with one-way flights starting at around $120

Cheapest routes to Decatur

  • Chicago (ORD) to Decatur (PIA/DEC), with budget one-way fares from around $80
  • Houston (IAH/HOU) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with low one-way fares from around $100
  • New York (LGA) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $100
  • Orlando (MCO) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with budget one-way fares from around $100
  • Austin (AUS) to Decatur (PIA/BMI), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $100

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

Top airlines with flights to Decatur

  • American Airlines: Provides service to Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA) and Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI), representing about 58% of arrivals in Decatur. The typical one-way fare is around $250, with premium cabins that may include first class based on the route.
  • United: Operates flights to Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA) and Decatur Airport (DEC), contributing approximately 32% of arrivals to Decatur. One-way fares average about $240.
  • Delta: Serves Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI), accounting for roughly 11% of arrivals to Decatur. The average fare for a one-way ticket is about $280, with premium service options potentially including premium economy and first class based on the route.
  • Aeromexico: Flies into Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI). The average one-way fare is approximately $210.

Best time to fly to Decatur

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Decatur are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Decatur can reach up to 53.1°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 67.8°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $243, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, July, and October offer average one-way fares of around $264, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January27.7°F (-2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$282
February30.7°F (-0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$267
March43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$295
April53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$271
May64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$243
June72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$276
July74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$263
August73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$268
September67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$260
October56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$267
November43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$287
December34.5°F (1.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$290

*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 Decatur

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Decatur

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

  • Public transportation: From Greater Peoria Regional Airport, Peoria Bus Station, a bus station, is located about 6.3 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers needing bus transport.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Decatur, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Decatur is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Decatur 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 in and around Decatur

  • Forsyth: Located 6 miles away from Decatur, Forsyth is a vibrant city perfect for families and culture enthusiasts. Enjoy a variety of activities, from visiting the historic Millikin University and Transfer House to exploring the Decatur Public Library. The local shopping mall and arena entertainment facility provide ample options for leisure and fun. Forsyth is an excellent destination for those looking to soak in the local culture while enjoying outdoor experiences with family or friends.
  • Argenta: Argenta is located 12 miles away from Decatur and is an ideal spot for outdoor and adventure lovers. Nestled near scenic landscapes, including forests and lakes, this city offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. Explore the Clinton Lake State Recreation Area for a day of adventure and beautiful views or visit Nelson Park for a family-friendly outing. With its charming surroundings, Argenta is a fantastic location for those seeking tranquility and scenic exploration.
  • Larkdale: Larkdale is located around the area of Decatur and offers a blend of cultural and outdoor attractions. Visitors can explore nearby highlights such as the historic Millikin University and the scenic Nelson Park, perfect for family outings. The Transfer House also adds a touch of history to your visit. Larkdale serves as a comfortable base for travelers looking to experience the best of Decatur while enjoying local parks and cultural sites.

Tips for short-haul flights to Decatur

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. Optimize your packing by including mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits effectively. This strategy also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself occupied, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and consider bringing a book as well. Remember to fully charge your devices before boarding.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure. Be sure to account for traffic and potential 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 Decatur

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 allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to reach 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, explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually free and readily available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Decatur?
The cheapest month to fly to Decatur is when demand is low. Off-peak months are typically when you'll find cheap fares. To save money, avoid flying during school breaks and major holidays.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Decatur?
Get cheap flights to Decatur from Chicago, Atlanta and Dallas. These cities generally offer the lowest fares to this destination. But keep in mind that holiday periods, stopovers and demand will also influence rates, so stay flexible and book when you see a bargain.
Which US cities fly direct to Decatur?
There are 5 US destinations where you can fly to Decatur nonstop from. Explore your options by using the "Direct flights only" box on Expedia and choose the best departure point for you. Here are a handful of the major cities to take off from:

  • Chicago
  • Atlanta
  • Dallas
  • Denver
  • Orlando

How to find a cheap flight to Decatur?
Book in advance to snag cheap flights to Decatur. Also, consider visiting during off-peak months like December and January. If you jet off on a Thursday, you'll save 16% on average compared to departing on a Sunday.* Save time checking every day and set up a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll let you know when fares change.*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 Decatur?
Staying flexible about your travel plans might help you to find last-minute deals on cheap flights to Decatur. To view all the available options, try looking at different ticket types, changing your Decatur trip dates, flying out of an alternative airport or using another airline.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Decatur?
Get the departure dates you want and a price your budget will love by booking your domestic flight to Decatur up to 28 days in advance. Search for tickets two to four months ahead if you're visiting Decatur 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 Decatur?
Sundays are usually the best day to book a cheap flight to Decatur, with savings of around 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you choose to purchase tickets on a Friday, be ready to pay a higher price 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 Decatur?
A couple of the leading airlines to Decatur are American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. A total of 3 carriers link Decatur with 4 airports across the globe. Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) is the chief gateway to this exciting destination.
Where do you fly into Decatur?
When flying to Decatur, the main airport to arrive at is Decatur Airport (DEC). You can also jet into nearby hubs like Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport (CMI) or Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI). Another great option to keep in mind when you fly to Decatur is Mattoon, IL (MTO-Coles County Memorial).
How far is the airport from central Decatur?
Touching down at Decatur Airport (DEC) puts you around 4 mi east of the center of Decatur.
Can I save money by booking a Decatur trip package?
Bundle your accommodations and flights and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better yet, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Decatur flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's easy to organize all your Decatur travel plans in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Decatur?
You can often cancel or change your flight to Decatur within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some fares are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued credit for future flights rather than a direct refund. Make sure you check the airline's terms of service in your itinerary for specific details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to find cheap flights to Decatur with flexible change policies. For more information, browse our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Decatur
Destination airport IATA code
DEC
Destination city name
Decatur
Roundtrip price
$315

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