Planning a trip to Mexico? Picking the right airline can really change how your journey feels. The best airlines to fly to Mexico from the U.S. include Aeromexico, Volaris, Southwest, VivaAerobus, and Delta, all offering direct flights to popular destinations like Cancun and Mexico City.
Each airline brings its own perks—think different routes, prices, and onboard services. It’s worth knowing your choices so you don’t end up regretting your pick halfway through the flight.
You can score solid deals and find convenient flights, whether you’re after a budget airline like Volaris or want the full-service treatment with Aeromexico. Many airlines fly out of cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Las Vegas, so finding a direct route isn’t too tough.
Exploring Mexico’s hotspots means picking an airline that matches your needs—maybe you care more about price, or maybe you’re all about timing. If you want more info on these airlines and their routes, it’s smart to check out options like Aeromexico or VivaAerobus.
Top Airlines Flying to Mexico
When you’re booking a flight to Mexico, you probably want reliable schedules, decent service, and affordable prices. Some airlines have nonstop flights from big U.S. cities, while others focus on keeping things cheap with a wide network.
Aeromexico
Aeromexico stands as Mexico’s biggest airline and, honestly, it’s often the top pick for trips between the U.S. and Mexico. They fly to a bunch of Mexican cities—Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, and more.
You’ll find routes from places like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. Aeromexico gives you a full-service vibe with business class and a loyalty program if you’re into that.
They’ve teamed up with Delta, so connecting from the U.S. is pretty straightforward. Their planes are modern and, from what I’ve seen, customer service and on-time records are solid.
Delta Air Lines
Delta’s one of the main U.S. carriers heading south to Mexico. They run plenty of flights to Cancun, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and more.
You can fly straight from big hubs like Atlanta, Detroit, and Minneapolis. Delta offers a comfy experience—first class, extra legroom, and a frequent flyer program if you’re loyal.
They’ve built a reputation for reliability and professional service. If you care about comfort and convenience, Delta makes a strong case.
Volaris
Volaris is a familiar name if you’re looking for a budget airline between the U.S. and Mexico. They serve cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Oakland, with flights to Mexico City, Cancun, and Guadalajara.
Ticket prices are usually lower, which is great if you’re watching your wallet. Heads up, though: Volaris charges extra for things like checked bags and picking your seat.
Their network is pretty big, so you get flexibility. That’s a big plus if your plans aren’t set in stone.
Viva Aerobus
Viva Aerobus is another favorite among budget travelers, and their route map keeps growing. They fly direct from cities like Las Vegas, Denver, and Houston to places like Cancun and Monterrey.
The fares are low, which is a big draw if you want to save money. Like Volaris, you’ll pay extra for bags and seat choices.
Their planes are newer, and they keep things simple—no frills, just the basics. If you’re just looking to get there without spending much, they’re a good pick.
Best Airlines for Major Mexican Destinations
When you’re traveling to key cities in Mexico, some airlines really stand out for their frequency, routes, and overall service. Picking the right one can make your trip a lot easier.
Flights to Mexico City
Mexico City’s airport is the busiest in the country. Aeromexico dominates here, running tons of direct flights from U.S. cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, and New York.
They’ve got good schedules and tend to run on time. Delta also serves Mexico City, mostly from hubs like Atlanta and Detroit.
Delta’s fares are competitive, and their service is usually solid. If you want more budget options, other airlines do connect through Mexico City, but direct flights can be limited.
Book early—especially if you want a nonstop or business-class seat.
Flights to Cancun
Cancun’s all about the beaches and resorts, so no surprise it’s a top spot for travelers. Airlines like JetBlue and Spirit Airlines offer direct flights from cities like Boston, Fort Lauderdale, and Houston.
Aeromexico also flies nonstop to Cancun from several U.S. airports, which is nice if you want a mix of comfort and price. Spirit Airlines often has the lowest fares, but remember, you’ll pay for extras.
JetBlue stands out for more legroom and better onboard service than some budget airlines. Depending on your budget and how much comfort you want, you’ve got a few solid choices for getting to Cancun.
Best Budget Airlines to Mexico
If you’re focusing on budget airlines for Mexico, keep an eye on ticket costs, baggage rules, and which cities they serve. You want low prices, but you also need convenient flights.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is about as cheap as it gets for flights to Mexico. Their base fares are super low, but almost everything else costs extra.
You’ll pay for carry-ons, checked bags, even picking your seat. If you pack light and don’t care much about extras, Spirit can save you a ton.
They fly to hotspots like Cancun and Mexico City from several U.S. airports. Frequent flights mean you’ve got some flexibility.
Don’t expect much in terms of comfort—no free snacks or drinks here. Still, if you’re prepared and know what you’re getting, Spirit works for budget travel.
JetBlue
JetBlue is a budget airline, but honestly, it feels a little nicer than most. You’ll usually pay a bit more than Spirit, but JetBlue throws in free snacks, drinks, and extra legroom in economy.
They fly to big Mexican destinations like Cancun and Mexico City. Their baggage policy is also more generous than some other budget carriers.
If you want to save money but still want a bit more comfort, JetBlue is worth a look.
Comparing Airline Costs and Value
Ticket prices to Mexico swing a lot depending on airline and season. Some budget airlines lure you in with low base fares, but extras can pile up. Knowing these price differences and seasonal trends can help you score the best deal.
Price Differences by Airline
Prices range from dirt cheap on budget airlines to higher on full-service carriers. Budget airlines start low but charge for bags, food, and seats.
A flight from the U.S. to Mexico might be as low as $15, but by the time you add extras, it’s not always a steal. Full-service airlines usually include bags and meals, which can be worth it if you want a smoother trip.
Average ticket prices hover around $345, but you’ll find deals if you shop around. Tools like Skyscanner or Kayak help you compare across airlines.
| Airline Type | Typical Base Cost | Common Additional Fees | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Airlines | Low ($15 – $150) | Baggage, seat selection, food | Travelers on a tight budget |
| Full-Service Airlines | Moderate to High ($200 – $500) | Usually included in price | Travelers valuing comfort |
Seasonal Price Trends
Prices to Mexico spike during holidays and peak travel—think winter and spring break. If you can, travel in late spring or early fall for cheaper fares.
Booking ahead during quiet months usually gets you the best price. If you’re flexible, flying midweek or avoiding popular dates can save you money.
Using comparison tools during low-demand times helps you spot the cheapest flights without messing up your plans.
Choosing the Best Airline for Your Trip
Picking the right airline for Mexico isn’t just about the ticket price. You’ve got to check baggage rules, flight times, and how the airline treats customers.
Factors to Consider When Booking
Look at the total cost, not just the fare. Some airlines sneak in fees for bags or seats.
Aeromexico might cost more, but you get extra comfort. Volaris and Viva Aerobus are cheaper, but you’ll pay for add-ons.
Check flight times to match your plans—nonstops save time but might cost more. It’s smart to consider the airline’s safety record and how they handle problems.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals
Book early for the best prices—waiting usually means paying more. Check airline sites or comparison tools for deals.
Volaris and Viva Aerobus run promotions pretty often. Signing up for airline email alerts can tip you off to flash sales or special discounts.
Being flexible with your dates or airports can help, too. Sometimes, flying on a Tuesday or from a different airport drops the price.
In-Flight Experience and Services
When you’re picking an airline to Mexico, onboard experience matters. Amenities and how you’re treated on the flight can really shape your trip.
Onboard Amenities
Top airlines to Mexico offer different levels of comfort and entertainment. Aeromexico gives you free WiFi, snacks, and a good selection of movies and music.
That’s handy if you want to stay connected or just kill time. Volaris and Viva Aerobus stick to the basics—if you want food or more legroom, you’ll pay extra.
If comfort’s a big deal, look for airlines with reserved seating, priority boarding, or in-flight entertainment. On longer flights, these perks can really add up.
Customer Service Comparisons
Customer service can be hit or miss, depending on the airline. Aeromexico usually gets high marks for friendly, helpful staff.
Flight attendants pay attention and help out when needed. Budget airlines like Spirit and Volaris keep things simple—service is basic, but often efficient.
When you book, think about how the airline handles delays or cancellations. Good support can save you a headache if plans go sideways.
Booking and Travel Tips for Mexico
Flying to Mexico goes smoother if you book at the right time and have your paperwork ready. Nobody wants last-minute surprises.
When to Book Your Flight
Try to book 3 to 6 weeks ahead for the best prices. Flights usually get pricier as your departure date gets closer.
If you’re using points or miles, airlines like United, American, Delta, and Aeromexico have solid Mexico routes. Check their award calendars early, since the best redemptions disappear fast.
Traveling midweek or during off-peak seasons can mean cheaper flights. Compare prices for direct and connecting flights, too.
Watch out for extra airline fees—budget carriers may have the lowest base prices, but the add-ons can sneak up on you.
Entry Requirements and Documents
You’ll need a valid passport to get into Mexico. Double-check that it won’t expire within six months of your travel date.
Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, and the EU don’t need a tourist visa for stays under 180 days. But you do have to fill out a Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM) form, which you’ll usually get on the plane or can grab online.
Look into health requirements before your trip. Depending on the current situation, you might need certain vaccines or to fill out health forms.
Keep a printed or digital copy of your travel docs and your return ticket handy when you arrive. Sometimes, immigration officers will want to see proof that you’re leaving.
For the latest entry rules, it’s smart to check official government or airline websites right before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are plenty of reliable airlines flying to Mexico, offering everything from budget seats to premium perks. Some airlines really focus on U.S. routes, while others lean into affordability or extra comfort.
What are the top-rated airlines for travel to Mexico?
Aeromexico gets a lot of praise for comfort and service. Volaris and Viva Aerobus are solid picks if you’re watching your budget. American Airlines is another big name, with a strong track record on Mexico routes.
Which airline offers the most frequent flights from the USA to Mexico?
American Airlines and Aeromexico both run several daily flights between major U.S. cities and Mexico. You’ll see them most often on routes to places like Mexico City, Cancun, and Guadalajara.
Which airlines provide direct flights from California to Mexico?
If you’re flying from California, you can go direct with Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico, and a few U.S.-based airlines. They link cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco straight to Mexican hubs.
How does Aeromexico compare to other airlines for flights to Mexico?
Aeromexico usually offers more comfortable seating and some premium extras compared to the budget guys. If you want a decent mix of comfort and price, it’s a pretty good bet.
What are the service reviews for American Airlines on flights to Mexico?
American Airlines gets points for reliable schedules and solid connections to Mexican cities. Reviews often mention professional staff, though your experience can change depending on the route or the plane.
Can you recommend any airlines that provide budget-friendly options to Mexico?
If you’re trying to save money, Volaris and Viva Aerobus usually come through with some of the lowest fares out there. They keep things pretty basic, but hey, that’s the trade-off for cheaper tickets.
