Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) serves the city well, but travelers sometimes need alternatives. Whether you're seeking cheaper flights, more flight options, or simply a different travel experience, exploring nearby airports can be beneficial. This guide ranks and reviews the best airports near Wichita, considering factors like distance, flight availability, amenities, and overall convenience.
Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT): Your Home Base
Before diving into alternatives, it's crucial to acknowledge ICT's role. It's the primary airport serving Wichita and offers a decent selection of direct flights to major hubs across the US. While not always the cheapest, its convenience for Wichita residents is undeniable. ICT boasts a relatively small size, meaning quicker processing times at security and less walking between gates. However, flight options might be limited compared to larger airports.
Ranking Airports Near Wichita:
This ranking considers proximity, flight options, and overall traveler experience. Proximity is a crucial factor; a slightly further airport with significantly more options might outweigh a closer one with limited choices.
1. Kansas City International Airport (MCI):
- Distance from Wichita: Approximately 200 miles (3-4 hour drive).
- Flight Options: MCI offers significantly more flight options, both domestic and international, compared to ICT. This includes a wider range of airlines and destinations.
- Amenities: MCI is a modern, well-equipped airport with ample dining, shopping, and lounge options.
- Overall: While requiring a longer drive, MCI offers a superior selection of flights and a more expansive airport experience. This makes it a worthwhile alternative for those seeking more choices or better deals.
2. Tulsa International Airport (TUL):
- Distance from Wichita: Approximately 150 miles (2-3 hour drive).
- Flight Options: TUL provides a more extensive selection of flights than ICT, though not as many as MCI. It caters to a regional market and offers connections to major hubs.
- Amenities: TUL offers a good range of amenities, though not on the scale of MCI. It's a manageable size with decent dining and shopping options.
- Overall: TUL represents a good balance between proximity and flight options. The shorter driving distance from Wichita compared to MCI is a significant advantage for some.
3. Oklahoma City Will Rogers World Airport (OKC):
- Distance from Wichita: Approximately 250 miles (4-5 hour drive).
- Flight Options: OKC offers a reasonably good selection of flights, connecting to various destinations across the US.
- Amenities: OKC offers a comfortable airport experience with adequate amenities, although it might not be as extensive as MCI or TUL.
- Overall: OKC is further than TUL, but it is worth considering if you need connections to specific airlines or destinations that don't operate out of ICT or TUL.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the cheapest airport to fly out of near Wichita?
This varies depending on the time of year, your destination, and the airline. Often, flying out of MCI or TUL can yield better deals compared to ICT, but it's crucial to compare prices across all three airports using flight comparison websites before booking.
Which airport near Wichita has the most international flights?
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) offers the most international flight options compared to ICT, TUL, and OKC.
Are there any smaller airports near Wichita I could consider?
While smaller airports exist closer to Wichita, they typically offer very limited flight options and may not be suitable for most travelers. ICT, MCI, TUL, and OKC offer a more reliable and convenient travel experience.
How much does it typically cost to drive from Wichita to each of these airports?
Driving costs depend on fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. However, you should budget for gas and potential tolls. You can use online mapping services to get an estimated cost based on current fuel prices.
What are the advantages of flying from an airport further away from Wichita?
Flying from a further airport, such as MCI, might mean more flight choices, potentially lower airfares, or better connections to your final destination, making it worth the added driving time.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best airports near Wichita. Remember to always compare flight prices and travel times to determine the best option for your specific needs. Happy travels!
