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$54 Cheap Flights to Salem, IL

Popular airlines to Salem

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How much is the cheapest flight to Salem?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $54 for one-way flights and $108 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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Southwest Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Salem

Flights to Salem at a glance

Traveling to Salem is easy; simply choose from full-service or budget airlines. Compare direct flights and journey times to select the option that best fits your budget and schedule, allowing you to enjoy the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Salem: Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA)
  • Closest (typical) airport to Salem: Williamson County Regional Airport, MWA (around 61 miles)
  • Flights per week: 100+ flights arriving across Salem airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Salem: around 3 carriers

Popular airports near Salem

Salem is a charming city perfect for outdoor adventures, scenic getaways, and family vacations. Visitors are drawn to Salem for its beautiful landscapes, romantic atmosphere, wellness activities, and opportunities for relaxation. The nearest airport to Salem is served by two major airports, making travel convenient for guests.

  • Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI): Situated in Sangamon County, Illinois, approximately 92 miles from Salem, this airport offers domestic flights to over 10 cities nationwide. Notable airlines operating here include American Airlines and Breeze.
  • Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA): Located in Williamson County, Illinois, about 61 miles from Salem, this airport provides domestic flight services. The primary airline serving this location is Contour Airlines.

Top routes to Salem

  • Chicago (ORD) to Salem (MWA), with one-way airfare from around $70
  • Orlando (MCO) to Salem (SPI), with one-way fares starting at around $50
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Salem (SPI), with one-way flight options from around $180
  • Dallas (DFW) to Salem (SPI), with one-way tickets available from around $150
  • New York (LGA) to Salem (SPI), with one-way flights starting at around $180

Cheapest routes to Salem

  • Orlando (MCO) to Salem (SPI), with cheap one-way fares from around $50
  • Chicago (ORD) to Salem (MWA), with budget one-way fares from around $70
  • Houston (IAH) to Salem (SPI), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $130
  • Washington (DCA) to Salem (SPI), with affordable one-way prices from around $150
  • Dallas (DFW) to Salem (SPI), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $150

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

Top airlines with flights to Salem

  • American Airlines: Operating flights to Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), American Airlines is responsible for about 65% of Salem's arrivals. The typical one-way fare is around $280.
  • Contour Airlines: Offering service to Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA), Contour Airlines represents nearly 28% of arrivals in Salem. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $100.
  • Breeze: Providing flights to Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI), Breeze accounts for roughly 7% of arrivals in Salem. The average one-way fare is approximately $100.

Best time to fly to Salem

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Salem are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Salem can reach up to 55.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 69.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $193), roughly 16% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? November, October, and January offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $199 to $211, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January31.3°F (-0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$211
February34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$219
March45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$255
April55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$265
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$246
June75.0°F (23.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$248
July77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$237
August75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$247
September69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$193
October57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$199
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$199
December37.2°F (2.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$241

*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 Salem

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Salem

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

  • Public transportation: From Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, Springfield Station, a train station, is located about 4.1 miles away by car, while Springfield Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 4.5 miles from the airport, also accessible by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Salem, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Salem is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Salem 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 Salem

  • Odin: Located 6 miles away from Salem, Odin is a charming city that offers a captivating blend of outdoor activities and romantic scenery. Visitors can enjoy the lush landscapes at Raccoon Lake Park, perfect for families and eco-friendly vacations. The Salem Fairgrounds is another highlight, hosting various outdoor events suitable for all ages. For those interested in history, the William Jennings Bryan Boyhood Home and Museum provides a glimpse into the past, making it an enriching stop for culture enthusiasts.
  • Dix: Dix is located 13 miles away from Salem and is a delightful destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Whether you're lounging by the lake or exploring the local parks, this city offers a refreshing escape. Key points of interest include Raccoon Lake Park, ideal for family outings, and the modern Dix Village Hall, which serves as a civic center. The Salem Fairgrounds also provides a family-friendly environment for outdoor gatherings and activities.
  • Centralia: Centralia is located 16 miles drive away from Salem and is a fantastic spot for those who appreciate nature and romance. With its recreational areas and campgrounds, this city invites visitors to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Raccoon Lake Park is a must-visit for families, offering eco-friendly experiences. Additionally, Bell Tower Park is perfect for city vacations, while the Centralia Carillon stands as a noteworthy landmark, showcasing the area's unique charm.

Tips for short-haul flights to Salem

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 your space by packing mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits effectively. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may 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. Ensure your devices are fully charged 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 and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Salem

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 provide the option to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights. This will give you ample time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, visit a coffee shop, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free Wi-Fi for your convenience.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin aligning your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to correspond with your destination's time zone. Try to either sleep or stay awake during the flight based on the local time at your arrival point to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Salem?
The cheapest month to fly to Salem is July when there's less demand. Off-peak months are typically when you'll find cheap fares. To save money, avoid flying during major holidays and school breaks.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Salem?
Get cheap flights to Salem from Chicago, Dallas and Denver. These cities usually offer the lowest fares to this exciting destination. But bear in mind that holiday periods, stopovers and demand will also influence rates, so remain flexible and book when you see a bargain.
Which US cities fly direct to Salem?
There are 55 US destinations where you can fly to Salem directly from. Explore your options by using the "Direct flights only" filter on Expedia and find the ideal starting point for your trip. Here are some of the top cities to leave from:

  • Chicago
  • Dallas
  • Denver
  • New York
  • Atlanta

How to find a cheap flight to Salem?
To secure cheap flights to Salem, book in advance or travel during the off-peak months of January and February. Want an insider tip? Depart on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to those who travel on a Sunday.* Set up price tracking 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 Salem?
Being flexible about your plans might help you to find last-minute offers on cheap flights to Salem. To view all the available options, consider looking at different ticket types, changing your Salem vacation dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or using another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Salem?
To snap up some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Salem 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book between two and four months in advance. This increases your chances of securing your preferred departure dates and seats.**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 Salem?
Sundays are usually the best day to book a cheap flight to Salem, where you can save 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you choose to purchase tickets on a Friday, expect to spend more as this is typically 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 Salem?
Finding your way to Salem is as easy as deciding between two popular carriers. Book yourself a seat with either of these options:

  • American Airlines - 927 flights to Salem each month, including 927 flights to Lambert-St. Louis Intl. Airport (STL) per month.
  • Delta Air Lines - 637 flights to Salem each month, including 637 flights to Lambert-St. Louis Intl. Airport (STL) per month.

Where do you fly into Salem?
Salem's main gateway is Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA). If you'd like some nearby alternatives when flying to Salem, consider Mount Vernon, IL (MVN-Mount Vernon Outland), Vandalia, IL (VLA-Vandalia Municipal) or MidAmerica-St. Louis Airport (BLV). You can also fly to Salem through Carbondale, IL (MDH-Southern Illinois).
How far is the airport from central Salem?
If you're landing at Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA), you'll be approximately 60 mi south of the center of Salem.
Can I save money by booking a Salem trip package?
Book a Salem flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could benefit from significant savings. It's easy to bundle your accommodations and flights, and you can even add activities and car rentals to create your own customized Salem trip. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Salem?
If you bought your flight to Salem within the last 24 hours, you can typically change or cancel it without fees. After that, extra charges may apply depending on the airline's terms and conditions. To learn more, check out our Customer Service Portal. Keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be issued a credit toward future flights rather than a direct refund. When browsing Expedia, use the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" boxes to find tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Lambert-St. Louis Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
STL
Destination city name
St. Louis
Roundtrip price
$108

Trending flights to Salem

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $54 for one-way flights and $108 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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