Cheap flights from Edmonton International to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway

Flying out of Edmonton International Airport

Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is located 26km south of downtown Edmonton and is one of the busiest airports in the province. Direct flights from Edmonton International to Phoenix-Mesa are rare but possible via WestJet. It's more likely that your WestJet flight will have one layover, usually in Toronto or Los Angeles.

The only other airline that uses Phoenix-Mesa is Allegiant Air. This airline only operates flights in the United States, so you would have to fly to a U.S. city like Las Vegas or Los Angeles first, then switch to Allegiant to complete your journey to Phoenix-Mesa.

International passengers will need to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure to go through U.S. customs. Be sure to bring your airline ticket and valid Canadian passport.

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Information

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) is located in southeastern Mesa, 32km from Phoenix, Arizona's capital city. The airport consists of one terminal, however there are plans in the works for a terminal expansion, to be completed by 2030.

AAA Yellow Cabs are always available outside of arrivals to take you to your final destination. Shuttles, sedans and limousines are also an option, but must be prearranged. AZA allows ridesharing company Lyft to pick up at the airport. There are also three rental car companies located in the terminal: Alamo National, Enterprise and Hertz.

By car, a ride to downtown Phoenix will take between 40 minutes and an hour, whereas a ride to downtown Mesa will take around half an hour.

What to Expect in Phoenix and Mesa, Arizona

Phoenix and Mesa are only one hour behind Edmonton, so jet lag won't be an issue. Cost-wise, prices for meals and entertainment in Mesa are comparable to those in Edmonton. As a popular tourist destination, prices in Phoenix are higher.

Both Phoenix and Mesa have desert climates, with long, hot summers and mild winters. If you're looking to escape Edmonton's severe cold and snow, visiting these cities between November and March is a good idea. If you visit Arizona during the summer, be sure to dress appropriately and stay well hydrated to prevent heat stroke.

The heat of the desert does allow for some incredible natural attractions that can't be seen in Canada, like the giant cacti in the Sonoran Desert. Other can't-miss attractions in these cities include the Phoenix Zoo in Phoenix and the Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa.