Reaching Gladstone is easy, with numerous airlines providing a variety of flight options. Explore different travel times and choose the flight to Gladstone that best aligns with your itinerary, allowing you to enjoy the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.
Major airports near Gladstone: Sawyer International Airport (MQT), Ford Airport (IMT), Delta County Airport (ESC)
Closest airport to Gladstone: Delta County Airport, ESC (around 10 miles)
Flights per week: 290+ flights arriving across Gladstone airports
Number of airlines that fly to Gladstone: around 2 carriers
Popular airports near Gladstone
Gladstone is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, scenic getaways, and romantic escapes. Travelers are drawn to its stunning landscapes, adventure opportunities, and eco-friendly atmosphere. The city is conveniently served by three major airports, including Gladstone Airport, making travel to this idyllic destination hassle-free.
Sawyer International Airport (MQT): Situated in Marquette County, Michigan, approximately 39 miles from Gladstone, this airport operates both domestic and international flights. It connects to about 35 U.S. cities and 1 international location, offering travelers the option to upgrade to first class or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Notable carriers here include American Airlines and Delta.
Ford Airport (IMT): Found in Dickinson County, Michigan, roughly 53 miles from Gladstone, this airport primarily handles domestic routes, linking to around 3 cities nationwide. Passengers can opt for premium economy seating for increased comfort based on the airline and route. Delta is the key airline operating from this airport.
Delta County Airport (ESC): Located in Delta County, Michigan, just about 10 miles from Gladstone, this airport also focuses on domestic flights, serving connections to approximately 3 U.S. cities. Travelers have the option to upgrade to premium economy class for a more comfortable experience, depending on the airline and route. Delta is the main airline servicing this airport.
Top routes to Gladstone
Detroit (DTW) to Gladstone (MQT/IMT/ESC), with one-way airfare from around $90
Denver (DEN) to Gladstone (MQT/IMT/ESC), with one-way flight options from around $140
Minneapolis (MSP) to Gladstone (MQT/IMT/ESC), with one-way flights starting at around $90
Chicago (ORD) to Gladstone (MQT), with one-way fares starting at around $140
Seattle (SEA) to Gladstone (MQT), with one-way airfare from around $210
Cheapest routes to Gladstone
Detroit (DTW) to Gladstone (MQT/IMT/ESC), with budget one-way fares from around $90
Minneapolis (MSP) to Gladstone (MQT/IMT/ESC), with cheap one-way fares from around $90
Portland (PDX) to Gladstone (MQT), with budget one-way fares from around $120
Grand Rapids (GRR) to Gladstone (MQT), with budget one-way fares from around $120
Baltimore (BWI) to Gladstone (MQT), with affordable one-way prices from around $120
*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes
Top airlines with flights to Gladstone
Delta: Operating flights to Sawyer International Airport (MQT), Ford Airport (IMT), and Delta County Airport (ESC), Delta represents about 50% of all arrivals at Gladstone. The typical one-way fare is roughly $220, with premium economy class available as a cabin option on select routes.
American Airlines: Providing service to Sawyer International Airport (MQT), American Airlines also accounts for nearly 50% of arrivals to Gladstone. The average one-way fare stands at around $280, and first class may be an option based on the route.
Best time to fly to Gladstone
The most popular months for travelers to fly to Gladstone are June, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Gladstone can reach up to 66.9°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 36.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $251), roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? December, February, and August offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $253 to $273, making them good options for flexible travelers.
Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Demand
Average one-way Fare
January
18.7°F (-7.4°C)
No Rain (Dry)
Mostly Cloudy
Average
$273
February
18.5°F (-7.5°C)
No Rain (Dry)
Mostly Cloudy
Average
$269
March
28.2°F (-2.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
$323
April
37.6°F (3.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
$295
May
50.0°F (10.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
$287
June
60.1°F (15.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
$279
July
66.9°F (19.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
$323
August
66.4°F (19.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
$273
September
59.9°F (15.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
$280
October
47.8°F (8.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
$284
November
36.3°F (2.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
$251
December
26.2°F (-3.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
$253
*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 Gladstone
Getting some of the best deals on flights to Gladstone 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.
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 Gladstone flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.
*For members. Select hotels.
Arriving in Gladstone
Gladstone welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Gladstone efficiently:
Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Gladstone, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
Car rental: Renting a car in Gladstone is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Gladstone 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 Gladstone
Escanaba: Escanaba is located 8 miles drive away from Gladstone and offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. This charming city is home to several recreational areas and resorts, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and fun. Visitors can explore local attractions like the historic Sand Point Lighthouse, enjoy the lush landscape of Ludington Park, or experience the excitement of the Upper Peninsula State Fair Grounds, perfect for family outings.
Lake Bluff: Lake Bluff is located in the area of Gladstone and is renowned for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty. This village invites travelers to engage in adventures ranging from golfing to exploring nature reserves. Key attractions include the picturesque Van Cleve Park & Gladstone Beach, which is perfect for family outings, and the stunning Little Bay de Noc, ideal for beach lovers seeking tranquility and breathtaking views. Whether you're looking for a day of fun or relaxation, Lake Bluff has much to offer.
Rapid River: Rapid River is located 6 miles away from Gladstone and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those in search of romantic retreats. With its beautiful natural surroundings, this city features recreational areas and golf courses that cater to various interests. Notable highlights include the Peninsula Point Lighthouse Interpretive Trail, which offers a scenic trek, and the family-friendly Upper Peninsula State Fair Grounds. Enjoy the charm of Rapid River, where nature and adventure await at every turn.
Tips for short-haul flights to Gladstone
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 cost-effective to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits in advance. This approach also means you can bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. 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 prior to 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 Gladstone
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 provide free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection even 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 procedures, and immigration.
Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the stores, visit a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is typically free and available.