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$89 Cheap Flights to Carbondale, IL

Popular airlines to Carbondale

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How much is the cheapest flight to Carbondale?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $89 for one-way flights and $173 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Contour Airlines
Contour Airlines
American Airlines
United
Alaska Airlines

Alternative airports near Carbondale

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

What you need to know for your flight to Carbondale

Flights to Carbondale at a glance

Traveling to Carbondale is easy, with a full-service airline providing comfortable flights to discover the city's renowned attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Explore various flight schedules for your upcoming trip to Carbondale.

  • Major airports near Carbondale: Cape Girardeau Municipal Airport (CGI), Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA)
  • Closest (typical) airport to Carbondale: Williamson County Regional Airport, MWA (around 11 miles)
  • Flights per week: 23 flights arriving across Carbondale airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Carbondale: around 1 carrier

Popular airports near Carbondale

Carbondale is a vibrant city perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere, romantic spots, and adventurous activities. The city is conveniently accessible through two major airports, making travel easy for anyone planning a getaway.

  • Cape Girardeau Municipal Airport (CGI): Situated in Scott County, Missouri, approximately 39 miles from Carbondale, this airport offers domestic flights to around 2 destinations nationwide. Contour Airlines is a well-known carrier operating here.
  • Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA): Found in Williamson County, Illinois, just about 11 miles from Carbondale, this airport provides domestic flight services. Contour Airlines is a prominent airline serving this location.

Top routes to Carbondale

  • Chicago (ORD) to Carbondale (MWA/CGI), with one-way flights starting at around $60
  • Dallas (DFW) to Carbondale (CGI), with one-way airfare from around $70

Cheapest routes to Carbondale

  • Chicago (ORD) to Carbondale (MWA/CGI), with budget one-way fares from around $60
  • Dallas (DFW) to Carbondale (CGI), with affordable one-way prices from around $70

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

Top airlines with flights to Carbondale

  • Contour Airlines: Provides flights to Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA) and Cape Girardeau Municipal Airport (CGI), representing nearly all arrivals to {short_name}. The typical one-way fare is around $90.

Best time to fly to Carbondale

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Carbondale are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Carbondale can reach up to 56.7°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 66.6°F. For better deals, December usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $89, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January33.4°F (0.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$120
February36.7°F (2.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$104
March47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$114
April56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$119
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$103
June75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$123
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$123
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$118
September70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$121
October59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$114
November46.6°F (8.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$103
December39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$89

*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 Carbondale

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Carbondale 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*, or explore our Carbondale hotel and flight deals.
  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 Carbondale flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Carbondale

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

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

  • Murphysboro: Located 7 miles drive away from Carbondale, Murphysboro is a charming city that delights outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes at Lake Murphysboro State Park, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. The area is also home to Southern Illinois University, offering a glimpse into local culture. For those looking to unwind, Kinkaid Village Marina provides a scenic spot for relaxation and outdoor activities, making Murphysboro a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
  • Makanda: Situated 8 miles drive away from Carbondale, Makanda is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. The breathtaking Giant City State Park invites travelers to hike its trails and admire its dramatic rock formations. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the serene Campground Beach, ideal for a day of sun and sand. The proximity to Southern Illinois University adds a dash of vibrancy to this quaint city, making it a perfect stop for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Wolf Creek: Wolf Creek is located in the area of Carbondale and offers a romantic getaway for couples and outdoor enthusiasts. With access to scenic trails and tranquil lakes like Lake of Egypt, visitors can enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature. The nearby Giant City State Park is perfect for adventure seekers, while Campground Beach offers a lovely spot for sunbathing and relaxing. Wolf Creek combines natural beauty with a cozy atmosphere, making it an enchanting destination for travelers.

Tips for short-haul flights to Carbondale

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 more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits effectively. This also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not have in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider taking a book to keep yourself entertained. And don’t forget to charge your devices fully 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 along with a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Carbondale

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 before your flight. Some airlines may offer seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take a moment to explore the shops, enjoy 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 setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Carbondale?
August is the cheapest month to travel to Carbondale. Demand is lower then, so you're likely to score a great deal. Booking your trip outside of public holidays and school breaks could also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Carbondale?
Usually, Chicago has cheap flights to Carbondale. To get the best deal, stay flexible with your travel dates. Fares can vary based on things like time of year, demand and number of stopovers.
Which US cities fly direct to Carbondale?
The only city in the US where you can fly to Carbondale without a stopover is Chicago. Browse all the available departure times and dates to Carbondale by choosing "Direct flights only" when you start your search.
How to find a cheap flight to Carbondale?
To snag cheap flights to Carbondale, book early and visit during the off-season months of December and January. After another tip? Leave on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to those who travel on a Sunday.* Set a price alert on the Expedia app and we'll let you know as soon as your fares go down.*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 Carbondale?
You can find awesome deals on last-minute departures to Carbondale, especially if your travel arrangements are flexible. Consider flying from a different hub, changing your trip dates or choosing another carrier to get a cheap flight to Carbondale.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Carbondale?
Get the departure dates you want and a price that suits your budget by booking your domestic flight to Carbondale up to 28 days in advance. Search for tickets two to four months ahead if you're visiting Carbondale from an international destination.**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 Carbondale?
Generally, you can get cheap flights to Carbondale on a Sunday. You can save around 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is often 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.
Where do you fly into Carbondale?
Carbondale's main point of arrival is Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA). If you want some nearby alternatives when flying to Carbondale, check out Cape Girardeau Municipal Airport (CGI), Barkley Regional Airport (PAH) or Carbondale, IL (MDH-Southern Illinois). You can also fly to Carbondale through Mount Vernon, IL (MVN-Mount Vernon Outland).
How far is the airport from central Carbondale?
Touching down at Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA) puts you about 11 mi east of central Carbondale.
Can I save money by booking a Carbondale trip package?
Bundle your hotel and flight and you could save hundreds of dollars. Plus, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Carbondale flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's easy to look after all your Carbondale travel arrangements in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Carbondale?
It's often possible to change or cancel your flight to Carbondale. Many airlines allow you to cancel your flights for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may issue you a credit toward a future flight instead of a direct refund. To reserve cheap flights to Carbondale with flexible change policies, select "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" during your search. Want more information? Check out our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Cape Girardeau Municipal
Destination airport IATA code
CGI
Destination city name
Cape Girardeau
Roundtrip price
$336

Trending flights to Carbondale

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $89 for one-way flights and $173 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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