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How much is the cheapest flight to Islay?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $144 for one-way flights and $290 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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What you need to know for your flight to Islay

Flights to Islay at a glance

Traveling to Islay is easy; you can choose between full-service or budget airlines. Compare travel times and select the best option that aligns with your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Islay: King Shaka International Airport (DUR), Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB)
  • Closest airport to Islay: Pietermaritzburg Airport, PZB (around 13 miles)
  • Flights per week: 100+ flights arriving across Islay airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Islay: around 15+ carriers

Popular airports near Islay

Islay is a charming village that attracts visitors for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and eco-conscious atmosphere. It is conveniently served by two major airports.

  • King Shaka International Airport (DUR): Situated in Ethekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, approximately 41 miles from Islay, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking around 3 domestic cities and 10 global destinations. Travelers can opt for a business class upgrade for enhanced service, depending on the airlines and routes. Major airlines operating here include South African Airways, Cemair, and South African Airlink.
  • Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB): Found in The Msunduzi, uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal, about 13 miles from Islay, this airport is dedicated to domestic flights. South African Airlink is the primary airline servicing this location.

Top routes to Islay

  • Johannesburg (JNB) to Islay (PZB/DUR), with one-way flights starting at around $65
  • Cape Town (CPT) to Islay (DUR), with one-way airfare from around $85
  • Harare (HRE) to Islay (DUR), with one-way airfare from around $180
  • New York (JFK) to Islay (DUR), with one-way flights starting at around $620
  • Boston (BOS) to Islay (DUR), with one-way tickets available from around $580

Cheapest routes to Islay

  • Johannesburg (JNB) to Islay (PZB/DUR), with low one-way fares from around $65
  • Cape Town (CPT) to Islay (DUR), with affordable one-way prices from around $85
  • Port Elizabeth (PLZ) to Islay (DUR), with affordable one-way prices from around $140
  • Harare (HRE) to Islay (DUR), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $180
  • Lusaka (LUN) to Islay (DUR), with budget one-way fares from around $220

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

Top airlines with flights to Islay

  • South African Airways: Offers flights to King Shaka International Airport (DUR), representing about 27% of the incoming traffic to Islay. The typical one-way fare hovers around $320, with potential business class service available on select routes.
  • Cemair: Serves King Shaka International Airport (DUR), contributing roughly 22% of arrivals to Islay. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of about $110.
  • South African Airlink: Connects to both Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) and King Shaka International Airport (DUR), making up approximately 17% of the arrivals to Islay. The average one-way fare is around $150.
  • Hahn Air: Operates flights to King Shaka International Airport (DUR), accounting for nearly 9% of Islay's arrivals. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $180.
  • Emirates: Flies to King Shaka International Airport (DUR), contributing around 4% of the arrivals to Islay. The average one-way fare is significantly higher, at about $1310.

Best time to fly to Islay

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Islay are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Islay can reach up to 70.3°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 65.7°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $236, roughly 26% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? March offers an average one-way fare of around $250, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$368
February70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$304
March69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$250
April64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$307
May62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately Low$345
June58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$344
July57.7°F (14.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$262
August60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$236
September63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$297
October64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$349
November65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$330
December68.5°F (20.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$436

*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 Islay

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Islay

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

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

  • Shongweni: Shongweni is located 15 miles away from Islay and is a charming village perfect for nature lovers and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic beauty of the area, highlighted by landmarks such as the serene lake and lush park. For shopping, the local market and shopping center provide delightful options. Notable attractions include Phezulu Safari Park, ideal for families and eco-friendly vacations, and the stunning Durban Botanical Gardens, which is perfect for leisurely strolls or a romantic outing. Paradise Valley Nature Reserve further enhances the outdoor experience.
  • Camperdown: Islay is situated in Camperdown, a city known for its vibrant outdoor and sports culture. Travelers can indulge in activities ranging from golf at the local course to pampering body treatments at nearby resorts. The area is surrounded by beautiful beaches and offers a nature reserve for those seeking tranquility. Key highlights include the family-friendly Phezulu Safari Park and the thrilling iDube Raceway, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts. For a touch of history, The Old Prison provides a glimpse into the past, making it a worthwhile stop for culture seekers.
  • Scottsville: Scottsville is located 23 miles drive away from Islay and is a neighborhood that caters to business travelers and families alike. Visitors can explore the vibrant public market or enjoy a day at the water park. Local landmarks include the historical Pietermaritzburg City Hall and the family-friendly beach, adding to the area’s charm. The KwaZulu-Natal Museum offers an enriching cultural experience, while The Old Prison serves as a reminder of the area's rich history. Scottsville is an excellent destination for those looking to blend leisure with cultural exploration.

Tips for short-haul flights to Islay

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. Maximize space by choosing miniature toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits effectively. 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. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. 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, 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 Islay

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 prior to your flight. Some airlines permit 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, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually available for free.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin aligning your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to correspond with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Islay?
August is the cheapest month to fly to Islay. Demand is lower then, so fares are generally more affordable. Planning your trip outside of school breaks and major holidays can also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to Islay?
Nonstop flights take the hassle out of travel. When searching on Expedia, select "Direct flights only" to see the nonstop options to fly to Islay.
How to find a cheap flight to Islay?
Traveling in the low season and booking early are two easy ways to snag cheap flights to Islay. Or, consider departing on a Thursday, which, on average, is 16% cheaper than leaving on a Sunday.* Want to be the first to know as soon as fares fall? Simply set up price tracking on the Expedia app to get real-time updates.*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 Islay?
It's possible to get great deals on last-minute departures to Islay, especially if your travel arrangements aren't set in stone. Think about jetting out of a different airport, tweaking your trip dates or choosing another airline to get a cheap flight to Islay.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Islay?
Lock in your flight to Islay two to four months ahead if you're jetting in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the timeframe is around 28 days in advance. Lower prices and a wider variety of departure dates, times and seating options are just some of the awesome 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 Islay?
You can generally find cheap flights to Islay on Sundays. You'll save around 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day to purchase tickets.**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 Islay?
Islay is connected to 13 airports worldwide through 10 carriers, with King Shaka Intl. Airport (DUR) as its primary gateway. Take your pick of these major airlines to Islay when organizing your trip:

  • Safair
  • South African Airways
  • Global Aviation
  • CemAir

Where do you fly into Islay?
Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) is the main hub for passengers flying to Islay. Or you can land at King Shaka Intl. Airport (DUR). Compare fares between the two airports to find the most cost-effective or convenient way to fly to Islay.
How far is the airport from central Islay?
You'll be about 12 mi north of the center of Islay after arriving at Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB).
Can I save money by booking an Islay trip package?
You could potentially save hundreds of dollars if you choose an Islay flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll make life easier by having all your travel plans in the same place. Try bundling flights and hotels with add-ons like tours and car rentals for your own personalized Islay break.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Islay?
If you booked your flight to Islay within the last 24 hours, you can usually cancel or change it for free. After that, extra charges may apply depending on the airline's terms of service. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal. Keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be offered a credit for a future trip rather than a direct refund. When browsing on Expedia, select the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" boxes to find fares with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Pietermaritzburg
Destination airport IATA code
PZB
Destination city name
Pietermaritzburg
Roundtrip price
$290

Trending flights to Islay

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $144 for one-way flights and $290 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Condor

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