Top 10 Airlines to Fly to California in 2025 (From Anywhere)

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Planning a trip to California? From the rugged coastline of Big Sur and the sandy beaches of San Diego to the iconic streets of San Francisco and scenic wine country in Napa Valley, California is a state that has it all. I’ve been visiting California at least once a year for as long as I can remember, so I know the best airlines to get you there comfortably and affordably.

For this guide, I’ve analyzed hundreds of routes and rounded up the top 10 airlines to fly to California in 2025. Covering major hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and San Diego (SAN), as well as regional favorites like Sacramento (SMF) and Orange County (SNA), these airlines offer the best options for reaching all corners of the Golden State. With a few insider tips to help you save, this list will set you up for an unforgettable California adventure!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to California

Looking for cheap flights to California right now? Before diving into all the airlines that fly to California, I first want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past three years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $215 roundtrip fare from Boston to San Francisco.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best California flights in 2025.

1. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) with focus cities in Los Angeles (LAX) and Phoenix (PHX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and Flagship First (on select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage with Oneworld alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Flagship Lounges at LAX, lie-flat beds on transcontinental routes, priority boarding
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the A321T aircraft between NYC and California for their most premium domestic experience

American Airlines has positioned itself as a top choice for California-bound travelers with strong coverage of the state’s major destinations. While their main hub is in Dallas (DFW), their significant presence in Los Angeles and nearby Phoenix provides excellent access to California markets.

The airline offers impressive connectivity from virtually anywhere in the world. Travelers from international destinations can connect seamlessly through American’s major gateways, while domestic travelers benefit from direct flights to California from over 50 U.S. cities. What this means? You’ll rarely need more than one connection to reach your final California destination.

If you’re springing for Business or First, their transcontinental service stands out. Their A321T aircraft, which fly between New York and California, offer a full three-class layout with lie-flat seats, in-flight dining, and plenty of personal space. On international routes into California, the Flagship Business cabin holds up well compared to top-tier global carriers.

Frequent visitors will also appreciate the AAdvantage program. You can earn and redeem miles not just with American, but across Oneworld partners like British Airways, Qatar Airways, and Japan Airlines. Add in access to Flagship Lounges at LAX and upgraded aircraft on key routes, and American becomes an easy pick for flying to California in comfort no matter where you’re starting from.

• Read next: Fun Attractions in Fort Worth
• You may also like: Cheapest Places to Fly from Chicago
• For more reading: Budget-Friendly Destinations from Miami

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2. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), with focus cities in Los Angeles (LAX) and Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles, part of SkyTeam
• ☕ Perks: Upgraded Sky Clubs, consistent reliability, free messaging on flights, superior operational performance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Connect through Salt Lake City instead of LAX for less congestion and stunning mountain views on approach

Delta has quietly become a favorite for travelers heading to California, especially if you care more about getting there smoothly than chasing the absolute lowest fare. Their strong presence in Los Angeles, paired with solid operations out of Salt Lake City and Seattle, makes it easy to reach cities all over the state without much hassle.

What sets Delta apart is how consistently they run on time. When you’re flying in for a business meeting or trying to make a cruise departure, that reliability makes a huge difference. Their newer aircraft, like the A220 and updated 737s, also offer a noticeably better ride like better legroom, cleaner cabins, and generally a more comfortable vibe.

International travelers are covered, too. Delta partners with airlines like Air France, KLM, and Korean Air to make getting to California from Europe, Asia, or Latin America simple, with just one connection in most cases.

And if you’re flying out of LAX, Delta’s Sky Club lounge is worth a stop. The rooftop terrace is a rare perk, with real sunlight, a solid bar, and views of the runway. Sure, SkyMiles pricing can be all over the place, but their flash sales do come through now and then… sometimes even with deals to California for fewer miles than you’d expect.

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Atlanta
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to New York
• For more reading: Hidden Gems in California
• Keep reading: Hidden Gems in San Francisco
• Also worth reading: Affordable Places to Fly from Sacramento

3. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Hamad International Airport, Doha (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (select aircraft), Business (Qsuite), First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club, part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning Qsuite business class, excellent dining, complimentary lounge access for premium cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the Boeing 777 or A350 with Qsuites for the most luxurious way to reach California from Europe, Middle East, or Asia

Qatar Airways might seem like an unusual choice for California travel, but this Middle Eastern carrier has become a smart option for anyone coming from Asia, Africa, or Europe. With daily flights landing in Los Angeles and San Francisco, they’ve quietly established themselves as a premium gateway to the Golden State.

The real standout is the Qsuite. This isn’t just a lie-flat seat. It’s a fully enclosed mini-suite with sliding doors, storage space, plush bedding, and even a double bed setup in the middle section if you’re flying with a partner. It’s one of the few Business Class products that can genuinely rival First Class on other airlines.

In Economy, Qatar delivers a solid experience. Seats are roomier than most, meals come with flavor rather than filler, and the in-flight service strikes a nice balance between polished and personal. The entertainment system has plenty to keep you busy, with both global blockbusters and lesser-known gems from across Asia and the Arab world.

Qatar’s Privilege Club ties into the Oneworld alliance, which means you can earn or redeem miles with programs like American AAdvantage or British Airways Avios. They also run fare sales a few times a year, often undercutting more direct routes while offering a much better in-flight experience. If your journey to California starts far from the US, Qatar is absolutely worth considering.

• Read next: Breathtaking Places in Los Angeles

4. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards, partners with multiple airlines and hotel groups
• ☕ Perks: Chauffeur service for premium cabins, onboard lounge on A380s, extensive entertainment selection
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Emirates’ Los Angeles and San Francisco flights on A380s offer shower suites in First Class and an onboard bar for Business and First passengers

Emirates doesn’t just fly to California, they make a statement. With their distinctive cream and gold aesthetic and cabin crew from over 130 countries, this Dubai-based airline has redefined what long-haul travel to the West Coast can be.

While Dubai might seem like a detour for California-bound travelers, it often works in your favor. Emirates makes stopovers easy, with optional hotel packages that give you a few days to explore the UAE. Whether you want to see the Burj Khalifa or relax at a desert resort, the layover becomes part of the adventure.

In the air, Emirates stands out for the little things. Meals are thoughtfully presented and inspired by regional flavors, not just basic reheats. Wine selections include labels from California alongside picks from Europe and South Africa. If you’re in Business or First, there’s an onboard bar to stretch your legs, socialize, or just sip something quietly mid-flight.

Even travelers in Economy get solid perks, including free messaging and reliable WiFi options. Their mobile app makes it easy to manage your trip, including booking a Dubai Connect hotel if you have a long layover. For travelers coming from Asia, Africa, or even parts of Europe, Emirates offers a smooth and unexpectedly enjoyable way to reach California.

• Read next: Picture-Perfect Places in Dubai

5. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club, part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea service, direct flights to multiple California cities, extensive US connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book using Avios points during off-peak dates for excellent value, especially in Premium Economy

What makes British Airways such a solid pick for California flights? It’s all about access. BA connects London to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego with daily nonstop service, making it one of the most convenient carriers between the UK and the West Coast. Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or something in between, those direct links save serious time.

The airline stands out for their flight timing strategy, with evening departures from London that arrive in California in the afternoon, which takes the sting out of jet lag. On the way back, morning flights from California land in London early enough to make connections across Europe. You’ll typically fly on their A380s to LA or Dreamliners to San Francisco and San Diego, with better cabin pressure and humidity that really helps on long hauls.

BA brings distinctly British touches to their California service. The airline recently invested in upgraded catering across all cabins, with proper afternoon tea service on daytime flights and improved wine selections that include California vintages. Their newest Club Suite Business Class features closing doors for privacy and direct aisle access for all passengers, a welcome improvement for overnight flights across the Atlantic.

Then there’s the loyalty angle. The Executive Club uses a distance-based award chart, so you can actually plan your redemptions without dealing with fluctuating prices. Avios are easy to collect, and you can even pool them with family. Book early and you’ll often find great availability for California routes, especially in Premium Economy or Club World.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly from San Diego

6. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific

• 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Asia Miles, part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning service, excellent lounges in Hong Kong, superior sleep comfort
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Cathay’s late-night departures from Hong Kong arrive in California early morning, perfect for maximizing your first day

Cathay Pacific makes the long-haul journey feel far less draining with daily flights from Hong Kong to Los Angeles and San Francisco on their A350s and Boeing 777s. From the moment you board, everything is built around comfort, especially if you’re hoping to sleep.

The Business Class seats here are designed with genuine rest in mind, featuring excellent bedding, thoughtful storage, and some of the best sleep surfaces in the sky. Even in Economy, the seat design, pillow quality, and cabin service are optimized for rest, helping travelers combat the brutal time differences between Asia and California.

Wondering how the food stacks up? Cathay’s catering consistently ranks high. Expect well-executed Asian and Western options, elevated presentation, and polished service. Drinks range from premium teas and wines to the popular Cathay Delight, a kiwi-coconut signature you won’t find elsewhere.

Asia Miles members can tap into decent award space to California when booking in advance. Earning is easy thanks to widespread partnerships across Asia, and connecting through Hong Kong often means a simple one-stop trip from places like Tokyo, Bangkok, or Sydney.

7. 🇳🇿 Air New Zealand

• 🏠 Hub: Auckland Airport (AKL)
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Skycouch, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Airpoints, Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Innovative Skycouch option, excellent wine selection, uniquely Kiwi service style
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the Economy Skycouch for families to create a flexible space where small children can sleep flat

Air New Zealand offers Californians the most direct path to the South Pacific, with non-stop flights connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco to Auckland. Their modern fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners features enhanced humidity and lower cabin altitude, significantly reducing the fatigue associated with ultra-long-haul travel.

The airline has built a reputation for genuine innovation in passenger comfort. Their signature Skycouch transforms a row of Economy seats into a flexible space where passengers can lie flat, a game-changer for families with small children or couples willing to cozy up. This affordable alternative to premium cabins has won multiple design awards and created a new category in long-haul travel.

The service leans into New Zealand’s easygoing charm. Crew members are friendly without being scripted, and the inflight meals feature local ingredients alongside a well-curated list of New Zealand wines. Business Class travelers get mattress toppers and bedding that actually feels hotel-quality, not just airplane-passable.

Airpoints keeps things simple. One Airpoint Dollar equals one New Zealand Dollar toward flights, with no blackout dates or confusing reward charts. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, Australia, or even the Cook Islands, this airline does more than just fly you there — it sets the vibe from the moment you step on board.

• Read next: Best Airlines to New Zealand
• You may also like: Best Attractions in Venice Beach

8. 🇯🇵 Japan Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT)
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Sky Suite), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: JAL Mileage Bank, part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional food quality, generous economy seating, award-winning service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the newer 777-300ER aircraft, which feature some of the widest Economy seats at nearly 19 inches

Japan Airlines brings its signature blend of calm, care, and precision to California-bound flights, offering daily service to San Francisco and Los Angeles. Whether you’re flying Economy or First, comfort and hospitality are part of the experience and not extras you have to hope for.

JAL’s Economy Class is a standout, especially on the 777-300ER and select 787 Dreamliners, where seats are nearly two inches wider than most competitors. That extra room adds up over 10+ hours, which means better rest, less fatigue, and a noticeably more comfortable journey across the Pacific.

Food on JAL is far from standard. Meals are built around umami-forward flavors that hold up at altitude, crafted with seasonal ingredients and prepared with the same care you’d expect in a Tokyo restaurant. Even in Economy, multi-course service includes thoughtful presentation, and the drink menu features premium sake and Japanese whisky selections rarely offered elsewhere.

The JAL Mileage Bank program uses a distance-based chart, offering strong value for premium cabin redemptions to California. You can redeem miles on Oneworld partners as well as unique additions like Emirates and Hawaiian Airlines, giving you extra flexibility. If you’re connecting from other parts of Asia, JAL’s Tokyo hubs make the entire experience efficient, smooth, and unusually comfortable for long-haul travel.

9. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA) and Munich (MUC)
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More, founding member of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: First Class Terminal in Frankfurt, excellent lounges, precise service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Connect through Munich rather than Frankfurt for a more relaxed experience and better terminal layout

Lufthansa connects California to Europe through its dual hubs in Frankfurt and Munich, offering daily flights to both Los Angeles and San Francisco. With a modern fleet of A350s and Boeing 747-8s, the airline delivers quiet, fuel-efficient service across the Atlantic.

What sets Lufthansa apart is its focus on precision and reliability. From punctual departures to well-timed meal service, everything runs with a level of efficiency that business travelers and frequent flyers appreciate, especially during winter months when delays are common elsewhere.

Business and First Class passengers have access to top-tier lounges, but the real standout is Lufthansa’s First Class Terminal in Frankfurt. Separate from the main airport, it includes private immigration, a gourmet restaurant, quiet day rooms, and limousine service to the plane. Business lounges in both hubs are also well-equipped, with barista-made coffee, buffet dining, and dedicated work areas.

The Miles & More program works across multiple European carriers and offers decent redemptions to California via Star Alliance partners like United and Swiss. While premium award space on Lufthansa itself can be limited, partner routes often offer better availability. Plus, Lufthansa frequently runs Business Class fare sales, especially in the winter, making them a smart pick for travelers looking for European elegance with a track record of dependable service.

10. 🇦🇺 Qantas

• 🏠 Hub: Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL)
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Qantas Frequent Flyer, part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional lounge network, complimentary pajamas in business class, wellness program for ultra-long flights
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Qantas’ direct flights from Melbourne and Brisbane to San Francisco offer excellent alternatives to the busier Sydney-Los Angeles route

Qantas has spent decades refining the long journey between Australia and California, operating direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to Los Angeles and San Francisco. As a pioneer in ultra-long-haul flying, Qantas knows how to make these 13+ hour trips as comfortable as possible, regardless of cabin.

Their Boeing 787 Dreamliners feature enhanced air quality, lighting systems to ease jet lag, and cabin layouts developed with input from University of Sydney sleep experts. Meal timing, hydration tips, and onboard stretching zones are all part of the airline’s signature wellness program, designed to ease the toll of multiple time zones.

In Economy, Qantas seats are built for long-haul comfort with ergonomic design and thoughtful cushioning. Premium Economy adds extra width, legroom, and a dedicated crew. Business Class offers fully flat beds in private suites, and if you’re flying First on the A380, expect one of the most exclusive experiences in the sky, complete with vintage Champagne, tailored dining, and proper beds.

The Qantas Frequent Flyer program is one of the most flexible in the world, with opportunities to earn through retail, banking, and travel partners. Their points-based redemption chart avoids the frustrating fluctuations found in some dynamic pricing programs. Add in access to Qantas’ excellent domestic lounges, even in smaller cities, and your journey to California starts on the right foot.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Travel to California

To aid you in choosing the best airlines to fly to California, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions from travelers like you.

What month is it cheapest to fly to California?

Travelers often find that the cheapest months to fly to California are January and February. This is considered the off-peak season after the holiday rush. During this time, airlines often offer discounted fares, and accommodations are generally more affordable. This allows travelers to experience the most popular airlines to fly to California at a lower cost.

How far in advance should I book a flight to California?

Booking a flight to California depends on several factors, including the season, specific events, and your flexibility. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Off-Peak Season: If you’re traveling during the off-peak season (generally the fall and winter months, excluding holidays), you might find good deals 4-6 weeks in advance.
2. Peak Season: For peak travel times like summer and major holidays, it’s advisable to book at least 2-3 months in advance. Summer months (June to August) are popular due to vacations, and December is busy because of the holidays.
3. Events and Festivals: If you’re traveling during a major event or festival, such as Coachella in April or San Diego Comic-Con in July, you should book as far in advance as possible, as flights might fill up quickly.
4. Flexibility: If you have flexibility in your travel dates, you can monitor fare prices and book when you see a deal. Many fare comparison tools and apps offer fare alerts to notify you of price drops.
5. Last-Minute Deals: While generally riskier, there are sometimes last-minute deals. However, this isn’t a reliable strategy if you have specific dates and times you need to travel.
6. Midweek Flights: Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer the best deals. If you can be flexible with your travel days, midweek flights might save you money.
7. Booking Tools: Utilize fare comparison websites and apps to monitor and compare prices. They can give insights into fare trends and predictions based on historical data. Don’t forget to also get a prepaid SIM card before coming here!

Which airport is cheapest to fly into California?

Though home to some of the wealthiest celebrities in the US, there are actually many cheap airports in California. In fact, some of the biggest cities are among the cheapest places to fly into California. Whether you’ve been there before or you’re planning your very trip, there are countless fun things to do in California, even when you’re on a budget!

When considering cost-effective options, flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO) can often be cheaper due to the high volume of flights and competition between airlines. However, I recommend comparing prices and considering alternative airports, as sometimes smaller airports may offer competitive fares.

The best part? LAX and SFO regularly have affordable flight deals from California to various destinations such as Albuquerque, Calgary, Cancun and more.

Why is it so expensive to fly to California?

California is a major travel destination with a high demand for flights, particularly to cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The high cost is due to the state’s popularity as a tourist destination, the presence of major airports, and the availability of numerous attractions and entertainment options. Additionally, the time of year, flight duration, and the airline chosen can also impact the price.

What is the cheapest day of the week to fly to California?

Typically, midweek flights, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be less expensive compared to weekends when the demand is higher. Booking flights on these days can often result in lower fares. This allows travelers to experience some of the best airlines to fly to California without breaking the bank.

How can I find the best deals on flights to California?

To secure the best deals, it’s advisable to book flights well in advance, be flexible with travel dates, and regularly check various booking platforms and airline websites for promotions and discounts. Utilizing fare comparison sites and setting up price alerts can also help in identifying the most affordable options available.

Is it possible to get last-minute deals on flights to California?

Yes, it is possible, although it might require some flexibility and diligence. Airlines sometimes offer discounted fares on unsold seats as the departure date approaches. Regularly checking airline websites, subscribing to newsletters, and using apps that specialize in last-minute deals can increase the chances of securing affordable fares.

Which airlines offer the best in-flight experience to California?

The in-flight experience varies significantly between airlines, but carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines are famous for their exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and superior in-flight entertainment options. This makes them some of the most sought-after airlines to fly to California.

Can I find direct flights to California?

Absolutely, many airlines offer direct flights to various cities in California, particularly from major international airports. However, the availability of direct flights can depend on the departure location and the airline, so it’s always best to check with the respective carriers for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What is the most popular airline in California?

The popularity of an airline can be gauged by various metrics, such as passenger volume, number of flights, customer satisfaction, or brand recognition. In California, several airlines are popular due to their extensive operations and hubs in the state.

• Southwest Airlines is notably popular in California, especially for domestic flights. They offer numerous routes connecting major Californian cities. This includes Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose, among others.
• United Airlines has a significant presence, especially with its major hub at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
• American Airlines also has a strong presence, particularly at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which serves as one of its primary hubs.
• Delta Air Lines has been expanding its operations in California, especially in Los Angeles.
• Alaska Airlines, while based in Seattle, Washington, has a significant presence in California, especially after its acquisition of Virgin America, which was based in Burlingame, California.

California Airlines in 2025: Recap

Exploring the diverse and dynamic landscapes of California is a dream for many travelers. And choosing the right airline can significantly enhance the overall travel experience. From the luxurious amenities of Emirates to the innovative services of Qantas, each airline offers a unique journey filled with comfort, hospitality, and entertainment. Whether you prioritize top-notch services, affordability, or direct routes, there are numerous airlines to fly to California that cater to a variety of preferences and needs.

By considering factors such as in-flight experience, destinations covered, and price range, travelers can select the airline that best aligns with their expectations and requirements. This ensures a memorable journey to the Golden State. So, choose your preferred airline and embark on an exciting adventure to discover the enchanting beauty and vibrant culture of California!