About flights from Key West (EYW)
Key West International punches well above its weight for an airport that's essentially a runway wedged between the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. EYW handles regional jets and turboprops with the casual efficiency you'd expect from an island that runs on its own schedule. The terminal is small enough that you'll recognize fellow passengers from the bar you were at last night. That's not a complaint. With 26 direct routes, all domestic, all threading you back into the American mainland, this airport does exactly what a good regional hub should: it gets you out, and more importantly, it gets you in.
Quick stats for EYW
- Direct destinations: 26
- Countries served: 1
- Continents reached: 1 of 6
- Average flight distance: 1,339 km
- Longest non-stop: Boston (BOS) — 2,213 km (~2h 46m)
- Shortest non-stop: Miami (MIA) — 203 km (~15 min)
- Reach score: 55/99
Why fly to Key West?
The honest appeal here is geographic isolation turned into aviation simplicity. You're not routing through a mega-hub to reach the Keys — you're landing 203 kilometers from Miami on a direct shot, or stretching all the way to Boston at 2,213 kilometers on the longest route in EYW's network. That Boston connection is genuinely useful for New Englanders who'd rather skip Miami entirely. The destination itself is the draw, obviously. Duval Street, the Hemingway house, water temperatures that make you forget winter exists. Connectivity scores a 55 out of 99, which reflects the airport's honest reality: good enough for what it is, not a connecting point for anything beyond the US East Coast corridor.
Longest non-stop flights from EYW
The furthest destinations you can reach non-stop from Key West:
- Boston, USA (BOS) — 2,213 km, approximately 2h 46m
- New Haven, USA (HVN) — 2,031 km, approximately 2h 32m
- Chicago, USA (ORD) — 2,019 km, approximately 2h 31m
- New York, USA (LGA) — 1,947 km, approximately 2h 26m
- New York, USA (EWR) — 1,927 km, approximately 2h 25m
Short-haul flights from EYW
Quick getaway options with the shortest flights from Key West:
- Miami, USA (MIA) — 203 km, approximately 15 min
- Fort Lauderdale, USA (FLL) — 234 km, approximately 18 min
- Saint Petersburg, USA (PIE) — 385 km, approximately 29 min
- Tampa, USA (TPA) — 389 km, approximately 29 min
- Orlando, USA (MCO) — 434 km, approximately 33 min
Tips for travelers at EYW
The airport sits less than three miles from downtown, so a taxi ride shouldn't cost you more than a decent cocktail on Duval. Rideshare works fine, but during Fantasy Fest or spring break, add buffer time — the island's two-lane roads don't care about your departure window. Flights here run predominantly on smaller regional aircraft, so bag size matters more than usual. Check weight limits before you pack your snorkeling gear. Winter and spring are peak season, meaning fares spike and early morning departures fill fast. Book ahead if you're traveling January through April. Summer is quieter and cheaper, though hurricane season runs June through November. Plan accordingly.
Frequently asked questions about flying to Key West
How do I get from Key West International Airport to downtown Key West?
You can take a taxi, ride-share service like Uber or Lyft, or rent a car—the airport is only about 3 miles from downtown, so any option takes just 10-15 minutes. Many hotels also offer shuttle services, so it's worth checking with yours when you book.
What's the best time to fly to Key West?
The dry season from November to April offers the best weather and fewer hurricanes, though it's also peak tourist season with higher prices. If you're flexible on budget, late May through early December has lower fares and smaller crowds, just with a higher chance of rain.
How many destinations can I reach directly from Key West?
Key West International Airport has 26 direct destinations, connecting you to major hubs and nearby cities without needing a connection. This makes it surprisingly convenient for a small island airport!
Do I need a visa or special documentation to travel to Key West?
If you're a U.S. citizen, you just need a valid ID—no passport required. International visitors should check current U.S. entry requirements, which typically include a valid passport and possibly an ESTA or visa depending on your country.
What's a helpful tip for Key West International Airport?
The airport is small and easy to get through, but it gets crowded during peak season, so arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights. Grab a map at baggage claim if you're renting a car, as the island's layout can be confusing at first.
Is flying to Key West expensive compared to other Florida airports?
Key West flights are typically pricier than Miami or Fort Lauderdale since it's a smaller airport with limited competition, but booking in advance or flying during shoulder season can save you significantly. Consider flying into a larger hub and driving down if you're on a tight budget.
Plan your trip from Key West
Browse the complete list of 26 destinations below to find your next flight from Key West International. Each route page includes distance, estimated flight time, and airline information to help you plan your trip.