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$159 Cheap Flights from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF)

Popular airlines from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

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Cheap Flights from Albuquerque to Sacramento (ABQ-SMF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $159 for one-way flights and $322 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Delta
United
Alaska Airlines

Alternative airports near Sacramento

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

What you need to know for your flight from Albuquerque Intl. Sunport to Sacramento Intl.

Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Explore the range of airlines offering flights from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport (ABQ) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service or budget-friendly options, you can compare Albuquerque to Sacramento flights to discover the itinerary that best aligns with your budget and travel plans. Prepare to visit Sacramento's iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods as you plan your journey.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 4 hours non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km)
  • Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$410, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport (ABQ) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Albuquerque to Sacramento are favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover spots include Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a 55-minute layover, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) featuring an approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes layover, and Denver International Airport (DEN), which offers about a 1-hour layover. This variety allows you to tailor your travel plans by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, capturing about 41% of departures on this route. One-way fares generally range from $120 to $400. The in-flight duration is 3 hours and 30 minutes, with the overall travel time, including a layover, being approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost option, Southwest offers both non-stop and one-stop services, representing around 34% of departures. One-way fares typically vary from $120 to $470. Expect an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total journey time of about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: This full-service carrier provides one-stop options, making up roughly 16% of flights on this route. One-way ticket prices usually range from $125 to $470. The flight time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with a total travel duration—including layover—of around 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • United: Another full-service airline, United offers one-stop services and accounts for approximately 8% of departures. Fares for one-way travel typically fall between $120 and $325. In-flight time is about 3 hours and 30 minutes, with an overall journey time, including layover, of roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Travelers flying from Albuquerque to Sacramento can opt for an upgrade, as American Airlines provides first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Albuquerque to Sacramento are April, June, and October, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 74.5°F in June. 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, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $168. Flight availability peaks in June and October, with approximately 16 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $168, roughly 26% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Most flight options: June and October have the highest number of flights from Albuquerque to Sacramento, with approximately 16 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Average10$262
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Moderately Low11$251
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Average10$246
April59.7°F (15.4°C)Moderately High12$235
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Moderately Low10$230
June74.5°F (23.6°C)Moderately High16$226
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Average12$217
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Average13$219
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Average13$168
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Moderately High16$207
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Moderately Low13$271
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Average13$220

*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.

Alternative route from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF)

  • Santa Fe to Sacramento (SAF-SMF): Located approximately 49 miles from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport (ABQ), Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF) offers one-way economy fares that generally vary from $135 to $360, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. This route primarily features one-stop flights, with common layover destinations being Denver International Airport (DEN) and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Leading airlines serving this route include United and American Airlines. Additionally, first class service is an option on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Albuquerque to Sacramento is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, though most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. often offer lower prices, while afternoon flights from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday can yield cheaper prices, but Sunday remains the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Sacramento International Airport from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Albuquerque with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Sacramento efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sacramento, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Sacramento International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sacramento International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • 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 options for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $159 and cheap return flights from $322 Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $161 to $688, and return flights typically cost between $316 and $903. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
October is typically the cheapest month to fly from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF), with average return fares around $319. This price is about 14% lower than the average throughout the year, as demand tends to decrease after the summer travel season. Other cheap months to fly from Albuquerque to Sacramento include March and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter ABQ to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF) starting from around $180 for a round-trip ticket. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF) is in October or March. Return flights in October average around $319, making it a cost-effective choice. March also offers good prices and a pleasant travel experience. These months strike a balance between affordability and enjoyable conditions, ensuring a smooth journey.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Sort flights by "Departure (earliest)" on Expedia to find the earliest flight from ABQ to SMF. To compare more early flights, use the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Albuquerque (ABQ) to Sacramento (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 25% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to start your day early and arrive in Sacramento with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Flying from ABQ to SMF with a connection usually takes about 4 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 864 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
You can fly first class between ABQ and SMF. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Sacramento from Albuquerque Intl. Sunport (ABQ)?
If you're planning to travel to Sacramento from Albuquerque Intl. Sunport (ABQ), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS) before reaching Sacramento. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) Sacramento Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Albuquerque, NM (ABQ-Albuquerque Intl. Sunport) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Albuquerque Intl. Sunport
Destination airport
Sacramento Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$322
Distance
863 mi
Average flight time
3 hours 55 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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