Flights to Detroit at a glance

Traveling to Detroit is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight durations and select the best option that aligns with your budget, timetable, and plans to discover the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airports near Detroit: Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), Quincy Regional-Baldwin Field Airport (UIN)
• Closest (typical) airport to Detroit: Quincy Regional-Baldwin Field Airport, UIN (around 35 miles)
• Flights per week: 110+ flights arriving across Detroit airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Detroit: around 4 carriers

Popular airports near Detroit

Detroit is a charming village that attracts visitors seeking wellness, relaxation, outdoor adventures, urban experiences, romance, and breathtaking scenery. The area is conveniently accessible via two major airports, enhancing its appeal for travelers.

• Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI): Situated in Sangamon County, Illinois, approximately 56 miles from Detroit, this airport offers domestic flights to more than 10 cities nationwide. Key airlines operating here include American Airlines and Breeze.
• Quincy Regional-Baldwin Field Airport (UIN): Found in Adams County, Illinois, around 35 miles from Detroit, this airport provides domestic services to about 2 cities across the United States. Notable airlines serving this location are Southern Airways and Contour Airlines.

Top routes to Detroit

• Orlando (MCO) to Detroit (SPI), with one-way fares starting at around $50
• Chicago (ORD) to Detroit (UIN), with one-way airfare from around $50
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Detroit (SPI), with one-way airfare from around $180
• Dallas (DFW) to Detroit (SPI), with one-way flights starting at around $150
• New York (LGA) to Detroit (SPI), with one-way airfare from around $180

Cheapest routes to Detroit

• St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (UIN), with low one-way fares from around $40
• Chicago (ORD) to Detroit (UIN), with cheap one-way fares from around $50
• Orlando (MCO) to Detroit (SPI), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $50
• Houston (IAH) to Detroit (SPI), with cheap one-way fares from around $130
• Washington (DCA) to Detroit (SPI), with low one-way fares from around $150

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

Top airlines with flights to Detroit

• American Airlines: Operates flights to Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), responsible for about 70% of Detroit's incoming traffic. The typical one-way fare is around $280.
• Southern Airways: Services Quincy Regional-Baldwin Field Airport (UIN), making up approximately 15% of arrivals to Detroit. Expect an average one-way fare of about $80.
• Breeze: Connects to Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), accounting for roughly 8% of arrivals in Detroit. The average one-way fare is close to $100.
• Contour Airlines: Flies into Quincy Regional-Baldwin Field Airport (UIN), contributing to around 7% of arrivals in Detroit. One-way fares tend to be about $50.

How to save money on a flight to Detroit

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Detroit

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

• Public transportation: From Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, Springfield Station, a train station, is located about 4.1 miles away by car, while Springfield Seaport, a seaport, is about 4.5 miles away by car, providing convenient options for both rail and sea travel.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Detroit, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Detroit is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Detroit 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 Detroit

• Pittsfield: As the city where Detroit is situated, Pittsfield offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River, perfect for a leisurely vacation. The historic John Greene Shastid House and the Pike County Historic Museum provide rich cultural insights, making it an engaging spot for history buffs. With recreational areas and an arena entertainment facility, Pittsfield is a great base for exploring the local landmarks and attractions.
• Florence: Located 4 miles away from Detroit, Florence invites travelers to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture and charming city atmosphere. The Morgan County Fairgrounds is a highlight for outdoor and family activities throughout the year. History enthusiasts can explore the John Greene Shastid House and the Pike County Historic Museum, both offering a glimpse into the area's rich past. Florence's unique neighborhoods and historic sites make it a must-visit for those wanting to experience local culture.
• Milton: Milton is located 4 miles away from Detroit and is home to several interesting attractions that cater to cultural explorers. Notable sites include the historic John Greene Shastid House and the Pike County Historic Museum, both significant for their historical relevance. Additionally, the Center for American Archeology Visitor’s Center & Museum offers educational insights into the region's archaeological heritage. Milton's rich history and engaging sites make it an appealing stop for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of the area.

Tips for short-haul flights to Detroit

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 the more economical choice. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do 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. Also, 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 arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure, taking traffic and security lines into account.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack your favorite snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Detroit

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 begins, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines allow seat selection even earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to reach the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to account for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with 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 generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to sync your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.