Cheap Flights to Mason City, IA

Popular airlines to Mason City

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What you need to know for your flight to Mason City

Flights to Mason City at a glance

Traveling to Mason City is easy, with a variety of full-service airlines providing options for your journey. Take the time to compare travel times and find the best Mason City flights that align with your schedule, allowing you to enjoy the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Mason City: Rochester International Airport (RST), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO), Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW)
  • Closest airport to Mason City: Mason City Municipal Airport, MCW (around 7 miles)
  • Flights per week: 650+ flights arriving across Mason City airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Mason City: around 3 carriers

Popular airports near Mason City

Mason City is a charming destination that caters to family getaways, romantic retreats, and relaxing vacations. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful outdoor scenery and wellness opportunities. The city is accessible through three major airports, including Mason City Municipal Airport, making travel convenient for those exploring this lovely area.

  • Rochester International Airport (RST): Situated in Olmsted County, Minnesota, approximately 63 miles from Mason City, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking to over 75 domestic locations and 3 foreign destinations. Travelers may opt for enhanced comfort with premium economy or first-class seating, depending on the airline and route. Major airlines operating here include American Airlines and Delta.
  • Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO): Found in Black Hawk County, Iowa, around 58 miles from Mason City, this airport provides domestic services to about 6 cities nationwide. The primary airline servicing this location is American Airlines.
  • Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW): Located in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa, just 7 miles from Mason City, this airport caters to domestic flights connecting to roughly 2 cities across the United States. United is the main airline operating at this airport.

Top routes to Mason City

  • Chicago (ORD) to Mason City (RST/MCW), with one-way tickets available from around $100
  • Denver (DEN) to Mason City (RST), with one-way flights starting at around $110
  • Washington (IAD/DCA) to Mason City (RST), with one-way airfare from around $110
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Mason City (RST), with one-way flight options from around $120
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Mason City (RST), with one-way flights starting at around $110

Cheapest routes to Mason City

  • Chicago (ORD) to Mason City (RST/MCW), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $100
  • Detroit (DTW) to Mason City (RST), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $100
  • Denver (DEN) to Mason City (RST), with affordable one-way prices from around $110
  • Washington (IAD/DCA) to Mason City (RST), with budget one-way fares from around $110
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Mason City (RST), with affordable one-way prices from around $110

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

Top airlines with flights to Mason City

  • American Airlines: Operating flights to Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) and Rochester International Airport (RST), this carrier represents roughly 51% of Mason City's incoming flights. The typical one-way fare hovers around $270, with premium seating options potentially including first class, depending on the route.
  • Delta: Providing service to Rochester International Airport (RST), Delta accounts for about 47% of arrivals in Mason City. The average one-way fare is approximately $270, with premium cabin choices that may encompass both premium economy and first class, based on the specific route.
  • United: Offering flights to Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW), United makes up around 1% of arrivals in Mason City. The average fare for a one-way ticket is about $220.

Best time to fly to Mason City

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Mason City are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Mason City can reach up to 46.4°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 63.9°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $249, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? July, June, and August offer average one-way fares of around $266, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January16.5°F (-8.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately High$289
February18.5°F (-7.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverage$282
March34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$314
April46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$288
May59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$249
June69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$267
July71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$262
August70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$269
September63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$281
October50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$295
November36.7°F (2.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately Low$289
December24.1°F (-4.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$280

*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 Mason City

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Mason City

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

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

  • Clear Lake: Clear Lake is located 9 miles drive away from Mason City and is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, stunning scenery, and vibrant local culture. Explore the famous Surf Ballroom and Museum, a cultural gem, or unwind at Clear Lake State Park, where adventure awaits amid natural beauty. For a more leisurely experience, clear your mind at Clear Lake State Park Beach, a perfect spot for relaxation by the water.
  • Rock Falls: Rock Falls is located 11 miles drive away from Mason City and offers a family-friendly atmosphere combined with picturesque scenery. This charming city features numerous outdoor activities, educational opportunities, and even a golf course for sports enthusiasts. Key highlights include the Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank, a fascinating historic building, and Lime Creek Nature Center, which emphasizes eco-friendly practices. Don't miss the unique Music Man Square, a music museum that celebrates local heritage and culture.
  • Plymouth: Plymouth is located 11 miles drive away from Mason City and is a peaceful retreat for those seeking romance and outdoor adventures. With its lush parks and serene lakes, it invites visitors to bask in nature's beauty. Explore the Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank for a taste of history, or visit the Lime Creek Nature Center for an eco-friendly experience. The nearby Surf Ballroom and Museum adds a cultural touch, making Plymouth a well-rounded stop for travelers.

Tips for short-haul flights to Mason City

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 using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating your outfits. This strategy also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. 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 wise to get to the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack your favorite snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while saving money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Mason City

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

  • Select your seat in advance—for long flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow you to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take a moment to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free and accessible Wi-Fi.
  • 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. Attempt 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 Mason City?
is the cheapest month to travel to Mason City. Demand is lower then, so you're likely to snag a great deal. Organizing your trip outside of major holidays and school breaks can also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Mason City?
You'll most likely find cheap flights to Mason City if you set off from Chicago. Don't forget that time of year and demand can all influence the total cost, so don't wait when you spot a great deal.
Which US cities fly direct to Mason City?
You can fly to Mason City without a layover from US destinations like Chicago and Minneapolis - St. Paul. Simply select "Direct flights only" when browsing flights to Mason City on Expedia. Then, compare the available options and choose the most suitable departure for your trip.
How to find a cheap flight to Mason City?
To lock in cheap flights to Mason City, book well in advance and visit during the off-peak months of January and February. After another tip? Depart on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to traveling on a Sunday.* Opt to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and we'll update you 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 Mason City?
Staying flexible with your travel plans may help you to secure last-minute deals on cheap flights to Mason City. To view all the available options, consider exploring different ticket types, tweaking your Mason City trip dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or using another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Mason City?
Get the departure dates you want and a price your budget will love by booking your domestic flight to Mason City up to 28 days in advance. Search for tickets two to four months ahead if you're headed to Mason City 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 Mason City?
Sundays are usually the best day to book a cheap flight to Mason City, where you can save 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you choose to purchase on a Friday, expect to spend more as this is often the most expensive day.**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 Mason City?
When you're ready to lock in your seat to Mason City, these leading airlines are waiting to welcome you aboard:

  • American Airlines - 156 flights to Mason City each month, including 99 flights to Rochester Intl. Airport (RST) per month.
  • Delta Air Lines - 86 flights to Mason City each month, including 86 flights to Rochester Intl. Airport (RST) per month.
  • United Airlines - 52 flights to Mason City each month, including 52 flights to Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW) per month.

Where do you fly into Mason City?
The main airport to fly to Mason City is Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW). You can also land at Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) when flying to Mason City.
How far is the airport from central Mason City?
You'll be approximately 7 mi west of the center of Mason City after jetting into Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW).
Can I save money by booking a Mason City trip package?
Bundle your flight and hotel and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better yet, you can add extras like tours and car rentals to your Mason City flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's simple to book all your Mason City travel arrangements in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Mason City?
You can typically cancel or change your flight to Mason City within 24 hours of booking. However, keep in mind that some fares are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive credit for a future trip instead of a direct refund. It's important to check the airline's rules and restrictions in your itinerary for specific details. You can use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters when you search to secure cheap flights to Mason City with flexible change policies. For additional information, visit our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Mason City Municipal
Destination airport IATA code
MCW
Destination city name
Mason City
Roundtrip price
$202

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