SOME AIRFARES CHEAPER AT REGIONAL AIRPORTS AROUND THE CAROLINAS

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Airfare is expensive, especially during the peak summer months.

Steep ticket prices are prompting many people to consider all options to find the best deals, including at airports outside of Charlotte.

For those who live in or around the Queen City, flying in and out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport is probably first instinct, but there are other airports within driving distance.

The question is, is a longer drive worth it?

According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the average fare for a domestic flight out of Charlotte in the first quarter of 2024 was just under $450. Out of Greensboro, the average was $477, and $383 out of Raleigh.

Some of the area’s smaller airports had cheaper fairs. A flight from Asheville averaged about $325, and from Concord, only $110. In fact, Concord-Padgett Regional Airport was just ranked one of the most affordable airports in the country.

The catch is that while most of the larger airports offer several major airlines, that is not the case at all of the smaller ones. Currently, Concord-Padgett only offers Allegiant and Avelo flights. The airport operates Allegiant flights to Orlando, St. Pete, Fort Lauderdale and Punta Gorda in Florida, and an Avelo flight to New Haven, Conn.

Still, depending on final trip destinations, and flexibility to drive, it may be worth checking out airports aside from Charlotte Douglas.

Flight prices are always fluctuating, so travelers will want to track them online to get the best deal.

Also, for those frustrated by long TSA lines at Charlotte Douglas, it may be worth opting for a regional airport with fewer passengers.

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2024-07-23T21:06:43Z dg43tfdfdgfd