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$49 Cheap Flights from Wilmington (ILM) to Tampa (TPA)

Popular airlines from Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) to Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA)

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Cheap Flights from Wilmington to Tampa (ILM-TPA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $93 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Avelo Airlines
Avelo Airlines
Breeze Airways
Avelo Airlines
Breeze Airways
Avelo Airlines
Breeze Airways
American Airlines
Delta
United

Alternative airports near Tampa

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

What you need to know for your flight from Wilmington Intl. to Tampa Intl.

Wilmington (ILM) to Tampa (TPA) at a glance

Travel from Wilmington (ILM) to Tampa (TPA) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. You can explore options from both full-service and budget carriers to discover the best itinerary that meets your travel plans, budget, and schedule. Whether you're searching for cheap flights from Wilmington or simply planning your next flight, find all the essential information for your journey from Wilmington International Airport to Tampa International Airport as you prepare to experience Tampa's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (800 km)
  • Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $40–$380, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Wilmington to Tampa, favored for their one-stop and non-stop options. Common layover points include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with about a 1-hour layover, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) also with a 1-hour layover, and Miami International Airport (MIA), which has a similar layover duration. These choices allow you to tailor your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • American Airlines: As a full-service airline, American Airlines provides one-stop journeys with one-way ticket prices generally ranging from $105 to $405. This carrier operates about 64% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours, including layover.
  • Delta: Delta is another full-service option offering one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually falling between $110 and $510. It represents around 17% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and a total journey time of roughly 4 hours, factoring in layover.
  • Breeze: Breeze stands out as a low-cost airline providing direct flights, with one-way fares commonly priced from $40 to $175. This carrier accounts for about 12% of departures on this route, and the total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • Avelo Airlines: Avelo Airlines is a budget-friendly carrier that offers non-stop service, with one-way fares typically ranging from $40 to $135. It comprises around 6% of the departures on this route, with a total journey time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Wilmington to Tampa, with American Airlines providing first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Wilmington (ILM) to Tampa (TPA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Wilmington to Tampa are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Tampa reach up to 73.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider July, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 83.1°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $137. Flight availability peaks in February, May, November, and December, with approximately 12 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: October usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $137, roughly 25% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $156.
  • Most flight options: February, May, November, and December have the highest number of flights from Wilmington to Tampa, with approximately 12 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January60.8°F (16.0°C)Average10$196
February64.4°F (18.0°C)High12$169
March67.6°F (19.8°C)High11$195
April73.4°F (23.0°C)High11$175
May78.1°F (25.6°C)Average12$156
June82.0°F (27.8°C)Average11$184
July83.1°F (28.4°C)Low10$176
August83.5°F (28.6°C)Low11$213
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Low11$234
October76.1°F (24.5°C)Average10$137
November68.9°F (20.5°C)Average12$169
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Average12$190

*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 Wilmington (ILM) to Tampa (TPA)

  • Jacksonville to Tampa (OAJ-TPA): Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is located approximately 43 miles from Wilmington International Airport (ILM). One-way economy ticket prices for this journey generally vary from $135 to $400, influenced by the season and the timing of your booking. The route is primarily served by one-stop flights, with common layover locations being Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines operating on this route include American Airlines and Delta. Additionally, first-class service is offered for travelers seeking an upgraded experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from Wilmington (ILM) to Tampa (TPA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Wilmington to Tampa 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 generally available when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures (6 PM to 12 AM) often offer lower prices, while Afternoon flights (12 PM to 6 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Thursday provides both better prices and increased demand.
  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 Tampa International Airport from Wilmington International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Tampa, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Tampa International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Tampa 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 Tampa International Airport, both Tampa Seaport, a seaport, and Tampa Union Station, a train station, are accessible by car, located approximately 9 miles and 9.2 miles from the airport, respectively, making them convenient options for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $49 and cheap return flights from $93 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $131 to $973, and return flights typically cost between $303 and $1141. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ILM to TPA is August when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
Enter ILM to TPA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 airline to fly with from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Wilmington, NC (ILM) to Tampa, FL (TPA) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, MX offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, MX typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from Wilmington to Tampa, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
On average, there are around 1 nonstop flights per day from Wilmington Intl. (ILM) to Tampa Intl. (TPA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in November, allowing you to start your day early and maximize your time in Tampa. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Wilmington, NC (ILM) to Tampa, FL (TPA) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing is great for travelers wanting to enjoy a full day in Tampa.
How long does it take to fly from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ILM to TPA takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 513 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 10 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the ILM to TPA route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa from Wilmington Intl. (ILM)?
From Wilmington Intl. (ILM), you can fly into Tampa Intl. (TPA) to reach Tampa. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Logan Intl. (BOS), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Liberty Intl. (EWR) before reaching Tampa. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) Tampa 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
If you booked your Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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
Wilmington Intl.
Destination airport
Tampa Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta, JetBlue Airways, United
Roundtrip price
$93
Distance
513 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 47 mins

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