Flights to Arkansas at a glance

Traveling to Arkansas is easy, whether you're looking for cheap flights to Arkansas or prefer more traditional airlines. Compare travel times to find the best option that fits your budget and itinerary as you plan visits to popular attractions. The state boasts a variety of points of interest, from urban parks to national parks. Notable sites include Crater of Diamonds State Park, perfect for outdoor adventures, Beaver Lake, ideal for romantic getaways, and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which offers rich cultural experiences.

• Major airports in Arkansas: Clinton National Airport (LIT) serving Little Rock; Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) serving Fayetteville; Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM) serving Fort Smith
• Flights per week: 3,650+ flights arriving across Arkansas airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Arkansas: around 20+ carriers

Popular airports in Arkansas

Arkansas is a vibrant state perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and opportunities for family fun, wellness, and relaxation. Travelers can easily access Arkansas through three major airports, making it convenient to plan your getaway.

• Clinton National Airport (LIT): Situated in Pulaski County, Arkansas, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, linking travelers to approximately 175 domestic cities and over 35 international destinations. Passengers can opt for first class, business class, or premium economy class seating for enhanced comfort based on the specific routes and airlines. Notable carriers include American Airlines, Delta, and United.
• Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA): Found in Benton County, Arkansas, this airport provides access to both domestic and international routes, connecting to around 160+ domestic cities and 35+ international destinations. Travelers can upgrade to first class or premium economy class seating for a more comfortable journey, depending on the airline and route. Key airlines include American Airlines, Delta, and United.
• Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM): Located in Sebastian County, Arkansas, this airport focuses on domestic flights, connecting travelers to roughly 30+ cities nationwide. Options for upgrading to first class are available for those seeking additional comfort, depending on the airline and route. The primary airline operating here is American Airlines.

Top routes to Arkansas

• Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Little Rock (LIT), with one-way tickets available from around $100
• Denver (DEN) to Little Rock (LIT), with one-way flight options from around $45
• New York (JFK/LGA) to Fayetteville (XNA), with one-way fares starting at around $150
• Denver (DEN) to Fayetteville (XNA), with one-way flight options from around $55
• Orlando (MCO) to Little Rock (LIT), with one-way airfare from around $110

Cheapest routes to Arkansas

• Denver (DEN) to Little Rock (LIT), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $45
• Dallas (DFW/DAL) to Little Rock (LIT), with budget one-way fares from around $50
• St. Louis (STL) to Little Rock (LIT), with cheap one-way fares from around $50
• Denver (DEN) to Fayetteville (XNA), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $55
• Orlando (MCO) to Fayetteville (XNA), with budget one-way fares from around $55

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

Best time to fly to Arkansas

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Arkansas are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Arkansas can reach up to 56.8°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 73.9°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $241, roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, August, and October offer average one-way fares of around $249, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$292
February	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$270
March	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$301
April	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$263
May	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$241
June	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$277
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$268
August	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$252
September	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$244
October	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$254
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$261
December	40.3°F (4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$274

*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 Arkansas

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Arkansas 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—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Arkansas hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—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.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Arkansas

• Bentonville: Located in the area of Arkansas, Bentonville is a charming city that offers a blend of outdoor activities, scenic views, and romantic spots. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of local landmarks such as lakes and national state parks while exploring cultural attractions like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which showcases American masterpieces. History buffs will appreciate the Walmart Museum, detailing the story of this iconic brand, while the Walmart Headquarters stands as a symbol of modern business innovation. With a variety of shopping and recreational areas, Bentonville is perfect for a fulfilling getaway.
• Eureka Springs: Eureka Springs is located in the area of Arkansas and is renowned for its picturesque scenery and romantic ambiance. This city is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring beautiful lakes and nature reserves. Highlights include the stunning Thorncrown Chapel, a remarkable architectural feat, and the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway, which offers a glimpse into the region's heritage. Visitors can also explore the local shopping scene, making it a well-rounded spot for relaxation and adventure alike.
• Bella Vista: Bella Vista is located in the area of Arkansas, offering a delightful escape for travelers seeking outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. Known for its impressive golf courses and tranquil campgrounds, this city is a haven for nature lovers. Key attractions include the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, which provides a serene setting for reflection, and Lake Avalon, perfect for romantic outings and outdoor activities. With its lush parks and recreational areas, Bella Vista invites visitors to unwind and connect with nature.

Tips for short-haul flights to Arkansas

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often the more economical choice. Save space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This strategy also allows you to bypass the baggage claim line upon arrival.
• Early check in—most airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport, and you may be able to select a preferred seat at no additional charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive early—even for short 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 at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Arkansas

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 complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines allow seat selection even earlier, though this may incur an additional fee.
• Arrive early—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the stores, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to either sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortable—since the journey will be lengthy, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.