Popular airlines to Ellsworth AFB

Alternative airports near Ellsworth AFB

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

RAP

Rapid City Regional

Cheapest

Flights from $600

What you need to know for your flight to Ellsworth AFB

Flights to Ellsworth AFB at a glance

Traveling to Ellsworth AFB is easy—choose between full-service and budget airlines, compare flight schedules, and select the best option for your needs. Whether you seek cheap flights to Ellsworth AFB or direct flights from nearby cities, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the area's iconic attractions.

Major airport near Ellsworth AFB: Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
Flights per week: 1,200+ flights arriving at Ellsworth AFB airport
Number of airlines that fly to Ellsworth AFB: around 5+ carriers

Popular airport near Ellsworth AFB

Ellsworth AFB is a vibrant city that offers a range of civic attractions, particularly its military presence. It's an ideal destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, as well as a taste of local culture. The city is typically accessed via a major airport, making it convenient for those planning their trips.

Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP): Situated in Pennington County, South Dakota, approximately 7 miles from Ellsworth AFB, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. It connects to over 145 domestic cities and 9 international locations. Travelers can opt for enhanced comfort by upgrading to first class or premium economy seating, depending on the airline and route. Major airlines operating from this airport include United, American Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to Ellsworth AFB

Chicago (ORD) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with one-way tickets available from around $100
Seattle (SEA) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with one-way flight options from around $150
Dallas (DFW) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with one-way airfare from around $180
Orlando (MCO) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with one-way flight options from around $140
New York (JFK/LGA) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with one-way flights starting at around $150

Cheapest routes to Ellsworth AFB

Minneapolis (MSP) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with cheap one-way fares from around $65
Denver (DEN) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with cheap one-way fares from around $95
Chicago (ORD) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with low one-way fares from around $100
Grand Junction (GJT) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $110
Colorado Springs (COS) to Ellsworth AFB (RAP), with low 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 Ellsworth AFB

United: Operating flights to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), United represents about 61% of arrivals at Ellsworth AFB. The typical one-way fare is around $260, with premium services including first class available on select routes.
American Airlines: With routes to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), American Airlines makes up roughly 23% of the arrivals at Ellsworth AFB. One-way fares average about $290, and premium service may feature first class on certain flights.
Delta: Providing service to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), Delta accounts for approximately 16% of arrivals to Ellsworth AFB. The average one-way fare is around $270, with premium cabin options that may include both premium economy and first class depending on the route.
Sun Country Airlines: Offering flights to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), Sun Country Airlines' average one-way fare is approximately $210, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.
Aeromexico: Flying into Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), Aeromexico has an average one-way fare of about $220, providing additional options for those traveling to Ellsworth AFB.

Best time to fly to Ellsworth AFB

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Ellsworth AFB are June, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Ellsworth AFB can reach up to 74.5°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 37.4°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $254, roughly 7% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? July, November, and September offer average one-way fares of around $260, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	26.6°F (-3.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	$279
February	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	$282
March	36.9°F (2.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	$294
April	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$287
May	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$273
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$287
July	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	$257
August	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	$265
September	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$263
October	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$254
November	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	$260
December	25.9°F (-3.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	$303

*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 Ellsworth AFB

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

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.
Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Ellsworth AFB hotel and flight deals.
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.
Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Ellsworth AFB flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Ellsworth AFB

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

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

Box Elder: Box Elder is located 2 miles away from Ellsworth AFB and offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. This charming city is perfect for travelers seeking recreational activities, with access to a shopping mall center and various local parks. Key attractions include the Monument Civic Center for events and conferences, Main Street Square for a modern urban experience, and the Central States Fairgrounds, a great spot for family-friendly outdoor activities.
Rapid City: Rapid City is located 11 miles drive away from Ellsworth AFB and serves as a vibrant hub for adventure and outdoor exploration. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational areas, a water park, and ample shopping opportunities. Noteworthy sites include the Monument Civic Center, which hosts various events; Main Street Square, ideal for soaking in the city's atmosphere; and the Central States Fairgrounds, which caters to those looking for outdoor family fun.
Rapid Valley: Rapid Valley is located 8 miles drive away from Ellsworth AFB, offering a quaint village atmosphere for those seeking outdoor enjoyment and adventure. Accessible recreational areas and fairgrounds make it a great destination for families. Among its attractions are the Monument Civic Center for events, Central States Fairgrounds for outdoor festivities, and Main Street Square, where visitors can appreciate a vibrant local scene.

Tips for short-haul flights to Ellsworth AFB

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 can often save you money. Maximize your packing efficiency by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits carefully. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack 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 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 departure, allowing for 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 Ellsworth AFB

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 typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may offer the option to select seats even earlier.
Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights. This will give you ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, enjoy a coffee at a café, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free and accessible Wi-Fi.
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. To lessen the effects of jet lag, try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Ellsworth AFB?

Plan your trip for if you want to get a good price on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Ellsworth AFB. If possible, avoid traveling during busy periods such as public holidays or school breaks.

Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Ellsworth AFB?

Denver, Minneapolis - St. Paul and Dallas generally have cheap flights to Ellsworth AFB. Bear in mind that fares may vary based on factors such as time of year, number of stopovers and demand.

Which US cities fly direct to Ellsworth AFB?

Choose from 6 US cities offering direct flights to Ellsworth AFB. When booking on Expedia, check "Direct flights only" to compare nonstop routes. Fly to Ellsworth AFB from any of these cities:

Denver
Minneapolis - St. Paul
Dallas
Chicago
Phoenix

How to find a cheap flight to Ellsworth AFB?

To get cheap flights to Ellsworth AFB, book as early as possible and consider traveling during the low season. Want a handy tip? Depart on a Thursday and you'll typically save 16% on average compared to those who jet off on a Sunday.* Set up price tracking on the Expedia app and we'll notify you the moment your 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 Ellsworth AFB?

Being flexible with your plans can help you to secure last-minute deals on cheap flights to Ellsworth AFB. To see all the available options, consider looking at different ticket types, tweaking your Ellsworth AFB vacation dates, leaving from an alternative airport or using another airline.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Ellsworth AFB?

Lock in your flight to Ellsworth AFB two to four months ahead if you're flying in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the recommendation is around 28 days in advance. Lower fares and a wider variety of departure dates, times and seating options are just some of the perks 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 Ellsworth AFB?

Sundays are typically the best day to book a cheap flight to Ellsworth AFB, with savings of around 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you decide to buy tickets on a Friday, expect to pay 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 Ellsworth AFB?

Ellsworth AFB has links with 4 airports around the globe through 3 airlines, like United Airlines. Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) serves as the main hub for many airlines to Ellsworth AFB. Delta Air Lines can also get you to this destination.

Where do you fly into Ellsworth AFB?

The main airport to fly to Ellsworth AFB is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). You can also touch down at Spearfish, SD (SPF-Black Hills) when flying to Ellsworth AFB.

How far is the airport from central Ellsworth AFB?

If you're touching down at Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), you'll be approximately 7 mi south of central Ellsworth AFB.

Can I save money by booking an Ellsworth AFB trip package?

Book an Ellsworth AFB flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can make significant savings. It's simple to bundle your hotel and flight, and you can add activities and car rentals to create your own personalized Ellsworth AFB trip. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in the same place.

Can I change or cancel my flight to Ellsworth AFB?

If you bought your flight to Ellsworth AFB in the last 24 hours, you can often cancel or change it without fees. After that, additional costs may apply depending on the airline's terms and conditions. To learn more, check out our Customer Service Portal. Bear in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be offered a credit toward a future flight rather than a direct refund. When browsing Expedia, use the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters to see tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Ellsworth AFB

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Ellsworth AFB on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

is the cheapest month to fly to Ellsworth AFB. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Ellsworth AFB. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Ellsworth AFB, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Ellsworth AFB

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Ellsworth AFB in 2026 starts from , while one-way tickets start from . Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Ellsworth AFB. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Ellsworth AFB

are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Ellsworth AFB. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Ellsworth AFB and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Ellsworth AFB, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Ellsworth AFB. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Ellsworth AFB plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Ellsworth AFB

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Ellsworth AFB.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Ellsworth AFB are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Ellsworth AFB. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Ellsworth AFB for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Ellsworth AFB. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Ellsworth AFB flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Ellsworth AFB. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Travel information

Destination airport	Ellsworth AFB
Destination airport IATA code	RAP

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Cheap Flights to Ellsworth AFB, SD