Cheap Flights to Lincoln, CA

Popular airlines to Lincoln

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Alternative airports near Lincoln

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

What you need to know for your flight to Lincoln

Flights to Lincoln at a glance

Getting to Lincoln is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare the duration of your journey to find the best option that fits your budget and schedule, whether you're taking direct flights or flights from Sacramento to explore the city's iconic attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Lincoln: Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
  • Flights per week: 3,550+ flights arriving at Lincoln airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Lincoln: around 35+ carriers

Popular airport near Lincoln

Lincoln is a charming city ideal for romance, business trips, and family vacations. Visitors are drawn to its outdoor activities, wellness options, and opportunities for relaxation. Conveniently, Lincoln is served by Lincoln Regional Airport and is also close to Sacramento International Airport, providing travelers with various airfield facilities for easy access.

  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF): Situated in Sacramento County, California, approximately 21 miles from Lincoln, this airport offers a range of domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 225 domestic locations and more than 95 international spots. Passengers have the option to elevate their travel experience with first class, premium economy, or business class seating, depending on the airline and route. Major airlines operating here include Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to Lincoln

  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Lincoln (SMF), with one-way airfare from around $40
  • Seattle (SEA) to Lincoln (SMF), with one-way airfare from around $50
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Lincoln (SMF), with one-way flights starting at around $45
  • San Diego (SAN) to Lincoln (SMF), with one-way fares starting at around $50
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Lincoln (SMF), with one-way fares starting at around $110

Cheapest routes to Lincoln

  • Burbank (BUR) to Lincoln (SMF), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Lincoln (SMF), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Lincoln (SMF), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $45
  • Seattle (SEA) to Lincoln (SMF), with cheap one-way fares from around $50
  • San Diego (SAN) to Lincoln (SMF), with budget one-way fares from around $50

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

Top airlines with flights to Lincoln

  • Southwest Airlines: Provides service to Sacramento International Airport (SMF), responsible for about 26% of arrivals in Lincoln. The average fare for a one-way ticket is roughly $250.
  • American Airlines: Operates flights to Sacramento International Airport (SMF), contributing to around 21% of Lincoln's arrivals. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $310, with potential first-class service available on certain routes.
  • Delta: Flies into Sacramento International Airport (SMF), accounting for approximately 19% of arrivals to Lincoln. The average fare for a one-way trip is about $290, with premium service options including premium economy, business, and first class depending on the route.
  • United: Serves Sacramento International Airport (SMF), making up roughly 18% of arrivals in Lincoln. One-way fares typically average around $300, and premium service may include both premium economy and first-class options based on the route.
  • Alaska Airlines: Connects to Sacramento International Airport (SMF), which represents about 9% of Lincoln's arrivals. The average one-way fare is approximately $250, with possible business class and first-class service depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Lincoln

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Lincoln are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Lincoln can reach up to 58.6°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 74.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $211), roughly 7% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, May, and August offer average one-way fares of around $216, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January47.7°F (8.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$243
February49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$224
March52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$234
April58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$236
May65.8°F (18.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$218
June74.8°F (23.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$234
July79.5°F (26.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$239
August78.3°F (25.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$218
September74.5°F (23.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$211
October64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainSunnyAverage$213
November53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$227
December47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$244

*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 Lincoln

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Lincoln

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

  • Public transportation: From Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento Valley Station, a train station, is located about 9 miles away, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles from the airport, providing convenient access to various travel options.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Lincoln, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Lincoln is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Lincoln 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 Lincoln

  • Loomis: Loomis is located 7 miles away from Lincoln and offers a charming blend of outdoor experiences and romantic scenery. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golf and body treatments, making it a perfect getaway for couples and nature lovers. Key attractions include Folsom Lake, ideal for scenic walks and beach relaxation, as well as Granite Bay Beach for sunbathing and swimming. For those interested in events, @the Grounds serves as a versatile conference venue suitable for both business and leisure gatherings.
  • Rocklin: Rocklin is located 8 miles away from Lincoln and is known for its urban vibe and romantic ambiance. This city offers a variety of activities, including shopping and body treatments, making it a great place for both leisure and education. Explore the historic William Jessup University for a cultural experience, or enjoy the scenic views at Folsom Lake, which is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. @the Grounds serves as a notable conference venue, ideal for business travelers.
  • Roseville: Roseville is located 10 miles drive away from Lincoln and is a bustling hub for families, business travelers, and shoppers. The city boasts an array of shopping centers and body treatment options, ensuring visitors find everything they need. Don't miss the Placer County Fairgrounds, where family-friendly events often take place, along with the picturesque Folsom Lake, great for outdoor activities. For business needs, @the Grounds offers a convenient event conference venue, making Roseville an excellent choice for work and play.

Tips for short-haul flights to Lincoln

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 is often more affordable. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and carefully planning your outfits. This strategy also allows you to 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 occupied, 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 while saving money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Lincoln

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for long flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines even offer earlier seat selection.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to ensure you have enough time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab 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 syncing 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 of your arrival to minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Lincoln?
Plan your trip for if you're looking for a good price on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Lincoln. If possible, avoid traveling during busy periods such as public holidays or major events.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Lincoln?
Las Vegas, San Diego and Los Angeles usually have cheap flights to Lincoln. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on factors such as demand, holiday periods and number of stopovers.
Which US cities fly direct to Lincoln?
Choose from 29 US destinations providing direct flights to Lincoln. When reserving on Expedia, select the "Direct flights only" box to compare nonstop routes. Fly to Lincoln from any of these top cities:

  • Las Vegas
  • San Diego
  • Los Angeles
  • Seattle
  • Denver

How to find a cheap flight to Lincoln?
To lock in cheap flights to Lincoln, book well in advance and visit during the off-peak months of January and September. Want another tip? Jet off on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to traveling on a Sunday.* Set a price alert on the Expedia app and you'll get notified 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 Lincoln?
Although booking in advance is usually the best way to save cash, don't panic if your Lincoln getaway is last minute. You can still find cheap flights to Lincoln, especially if your plans have a little leeway. Try switching up your trip dates, exploring different ticket options or flying out of another airport.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Lincoln?
Lock in your flight to Lincoln two to four months ahead if you're jetting in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the recommendation is around 28 days in advance. Cheaper tickets and a wider variety of departure dates, times and seating options are just a few of the 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 Lincoln?
You can save an average of 8% if you buy tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the most expensive day to book.* When it comes to getting a cheap flight to Lincoln, it's all about having good timing.*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 Lincoln?
Lincoln has connections to 25 airports worldwide through 11 airlines, with Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) as its chief entry point. Take your pick of these top airlines to Lincoln when booking your trip:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

Where do you fly into Lincoln?
The main airport when you fly to Lincoln is Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF), but there are some great nearby alternatives like Auburn, CA (AUN-Auburn Municipal) and Marysville, CA (MYV-Yuba County). You can also land at Sacramento Mather Airport (MHR) and Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) when flying to Lincoln.
How far is the airport from central Lincoln?
Landing at Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) puts you roughly 20 mi southwest of central Lincoln.
Can I save money by booking a Lincoln trip package?
You could possibly save hundreds of dollars if you lock in a Lincoln flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll save time and hassle by having all your travel arrangements in one place. Try bundling hotels and flights with add-ons like tours and activities for your own personalized Lincoln trip.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Lincoln?
It's usually possible to change or cancel your flight to Lincoln. Many airlines allow you to cancel your ticket for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you a credit toward future travel rather than a direct refund. To secure affordable flights to Lincoln with flexible change policies, check the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters when you search. Looking for more information? Head to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Lincoln
Destination airport IATA code
SMF

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