When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Phoenix?
Cheap flights to Phoenix are available throughout the year. However, for the cheapest airfares, consider travelling in the spring or autumn. Phoenix is sweltering during the summer, so flying during April, May, September or October will make it easier for sightseeing. Generally, rates remain the same month to month, but they do see a hike during July and August.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Phoenix?
Book your flights to Phoenix around two to four months before your proposed travel dates. Although it is possible to find deals on last-minute flights, these deals are never assured. Generally, the best deals on Phoenix flights depart on a Monday or Wednesday, but being flexible with your dates is the best way to snare a deal.
Flying to Phoenix International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix International Airport (PHX), also known as Sky Harbor Airport, is located only five kilometres from downtown Phoenix and is Arizona’s biggest and busiest airport. Flights to Phoenix are available from airports around the UK, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester and Birmingham. However, direct flights are only available from London Heathrow with British Airways, Finnair and American Airlines. These direct flights clock in around 10 hours each way. A wide range of airlines also offer indirect services with transfers usually taking place in the US before continuing to Phoenix. These routes with one or two stops tend to be on a par with their direct flight counterparts when it comes to prices, although they will take a few hours longer. Carriers include SN Brussels Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Aer Lingus.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Phoenix Airport (PHX) has three passenger terminals currently in use, numbered 2 to 4. When Terminal 1 was ‘retired’, it was decided that the remaining terminals would keep their numbers. The airport boasts over 100 departure gates – 80 of which are in Terminal 4, the largest terminal. A courtesy shuttle bus is available for inter-terminal travel. These buses and their corresponding stops are green and white. Each terminal has extensive opportunities for shopping and dining as well as access to airline lounges. None of the terminals have car hire facilities in their buildings; you will have to take the dedicated Rental Car Center shuttle bus.
Getting to the City from Phoenix International Airport (PHX)
Being so close to the city has its advantages; it’s incredibly easy to get from the airport to your accommodations. Some hotels in the city will even arrange a courtesy pick up. There’s a phone centre next to baggage reclaim to organise your transportation as well. Each terminal also offers bus services. Eastbound buses are found on the north sides of Terminals 3 and 4 and Terminal 2’s west side. For westbound buses, head to the south sides of Terminals 3 and 4. Taxis are plentiful and can be found outside T2’s door #8, T3’s door #7 and T4’s doors #6 and #7. Cabs charge at the same rate regardless of company.
Why visit Phoenix?
Fondly known as the Valley of the Sun, this desert city has 299 days of sunshine on average per year. So, spend some of your visit exploring all the great outdoors has to offer. If you love plants, cacti in particular, head to the Desert Botanical Garden. With five unique trails, you can discover how these incredible plants survive in the arid climate.
Phoenix has got you covered when it comes to biking and horseback riding thanks to the South Mountain Park and Camelback Mountain. South Mountain Park is one of the largest urban parks in America. Over 90 km of trails run through the park, and its highest peak stands at over 305metres above the desert. If you keep an eye out, you might just spot some of the park’s native lizards darting through the brush.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
For visits to the US that are less than 90 days, most British passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Provided you meet the required conditions, you can travel visa-free. Otherwise, you must apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy. Restrictions on certain prescription medications are currently in place. When travelling with your medication, it must be in its original packaging with your prescription printed on it or accompanied with a doctor’s note if you do not have the original packaging.
