When planning a trip to the Phoenix area, your arrival airport can make a difference to your ground transportation plans. Airport transportation Phoenix travelers arrange should account for two commercial airports: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA). They both offer services to the region, but their locations, airline options, and destinations differ. It is important to understand what each airport has to offer, so you can make a convenient choice and avoid confusion when arranging your chauffeur pickup.
Understanding Phoenix's Two Commercial Airports
Phoenix has two commercial airports, and each serves a different purpose.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): Sky Harbor is the primary commercial airport in the Phoenix area, which is situated near downtown Phoenix. It provides a much larger selection of airlines, domestic and international flights.
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA): Located in southeast Mesa, Gateway also serves as an alternative arrival point, especially if you are traveling in the East Valley. Its commercial services are less extensive, with a smaller selection of airlines and nonstop routes.
The only thing that really matters is location and flight availability. Sky Harbor is the larger commercial center, while Mesa Gateway may be more convenient for some East Valley destinations.
Which Airport Is Closer to Your East Valley Destination?
Your final destination matters more than the airport's name. The East Valley covers several communities, and the best arrival point depends on where you are staying.
Here is how to compare the two airports:
Destination | Airport to consider |
|---|---|
Mesa | AZA for southeast Mesa; compare both for downtown Mesa |
Gilbert | AZA is generally closer |
Chandler | Compare both based on your exact address |
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway is located in the southeast part of Mesa, with access to Loop 202 and US 60. It's especially helpful when traveling to the southeastern communities. Gateway is also closer to the town of Gilbert than Sky Harbor for typical airport trips, according to the visitor information provided by Gilbert.
Sky Harbor, on the other hand, has direct highway connections from Chandler, Gilbert, and East Mesa. Its official driving directions include routes from these communities.
Our tip: When choosing an airport, verify where your hotel, home or meeting is. A location in the west side of Chandler could be more convenient for Sky Harbor, and a place in the south-east side of Mesa could be more convenient for Gateway.
Comparing Flight Options and Airline Availability
The airport you choose also will depend on where you are flying from.
Sky Harbor has a much greater airline network. According to its official flight information, there are 24 airlines, over 130 domestic destinations and 24 international destinations. This provides you with greater choice when looking at departure times, connections and international routes.
Mesa Gateway has a smaller commercial airline selection. Its current route information lists Allegiant and Sun Country Airlines, with more than 40 nonstop destinations. These routes can work well if your departure city is served by either airline.
Here are some things to take into account before making a booking:
Select PHX if you require more options in airlines, international connections, or flight times.
If your destination is southeast Mesa or nearby communities, and your airline has a nonstop flight, consider AZA.
Do not pick an airport just because of the airfare, but by comparing the whole trip.
A cheaper flight may not always mean a more convenient trip. Consider the additional ground transportation involved before making your decision.
Planning Your Chauffeur Pickup at Either Airport
Once your flight is booked, arrange your ground transportation using the correct airport details. This is particularly important when you are booking a private car or limousine service.
When arranging airport transportation Phoenix visitors should provide us with the following information:
Airport name and code: Clearly mention Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) or Phoenix-Mesa Gateway (AZA).
Flight number: Share your complete airline flight number so the arrival details can be identified.
Arrival date and time: Include the scheduled landing date and local arrival time.
Passenger details: Confirm the number of travelers and luggage requirements.
Destination address: Provide your hotel, residence, office, or event venue.
Why Both the Airport Code and Flight Number Matter
Yes, you should provide your chauffeur with both details. The airport code is used to determine the right airport and the flight number to determine the right flight.
This avoids confusion, particularly if your airline has flights to multiple airports in the same metropolitan area. It also provides us with the information to better coordinate your pick up more accurately.
Please notify us of any changes or delays to flights. If you are coming into Sky Harbor, also check your terminal and agree to pick up. Please follow the passenger pick-up instructions shared for your booking at the Mesa Gateway.
Make Your Phoenix Airport Transfer Easier with Book A Limo
You should not have to figure out your transportation after a long flight. At Book A Limo, we help you plan your airport transfer around your arrival airport and final destination.
Whether you land at Sky Harbor or Mesa Gateway, arrange your ride in advance and share your complete travel details. This helps us coordinate the pickup and plan the journey to your destination.
You can also use our Android and iOS apps to make your booking and manage your travel arrangements conveniently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Phoenix have a second commercial airport?
Yes. There are two commercial airports in Phoenix: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA). The primary commercial centre is Sky Harbor and Gateway is the point for travelers landing in the south-east Phoenix region.
Which airport is closer to Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa?
It depends on the specific destination. Gateway is generally more convenient for southeast Mesa and Gilbert. Sky Harbor can be a practical option for Chandler and Central Mesa. Before booking, verify the driving route from the airport to your actual address.
Should a chauffeur be given the airport code as well as the flight number?
Yes. Provide both the airport code and flight number. The airport code will tell you if you are coming in to PHX or AZA, and the flight number will help you determine your scheduled time of arrival.
Which airport has the larger selection of airlines and routes?
Phoenix Sky Harbor has the larger selection, with more airlines and domestic and international destinations. Mesa Gateway has fewer airlines and a more limited route network, making it important to check available flights before booking.
Book Your Phoenix Airport Transportation in Advance
Choosing the right airport is only one part of planning a comfortable journey. Your pickup location, flight details, and final destination all matter. With Book A Limo, you can arrange airport transportation Phoenix travelers can plan around their flight schedules and travel requirements.
Book your chauffeur service with us before your arrival. Let us help make your journey from the airport to your destination comfortable and convenient.