Top 10 Airlines for Flights to Puerto Vallarta in 2025

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Flying to Puerto Vallarta changed my life a couple years back. After testing nearly every carrier that services this Mexican paradise over multiple trips, I’ve got strong opinions about which airlines deliver the best experience to this stunning Pacific coast destination.

While researching the best places in Puerto Vallarta, like the charming Zona Romantica and the bustling Malecón boardwalk, I discovered that your airline choice dramatically impacts your vacation before you even arrive. I tracked over 100 flight routes around the world to Puerto Vallarta, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Whether you want premium comfort or the absolute lowest fare, my actual experiences flying these routes will help you choose the perfect airline for your Puerto Vallarta getaway in 2025.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Puerto Vallarta

Looking for the cheapest flights to Puerto Vallarta? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

Here’s the deal: Sign up for free email alerts, set your departure and destination, and boom – you’ll get alerts for insanely cheap flights. Mistake fares? Deep discounts? They’ve got it all.

I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $199 roundtrip fare from Boston to Puerto Vallarta in July. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s dive into the 10 best airlines to fly to Puerto Vallarta in 2025.

1. 🇲🇽 Aeromexico

• 🏠 Hub: Mexico City (MEX), Guadalajara (GDL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Club Premier (SkyTeam alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Mexican hospitality, authentic cuisine, local expertise
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Connecting through Guadalajara (GDL) instead of Mexico City can save time and offer smoother connections. Aeromexico often releases bundled fares that include free seat selection and checked bags, especially on U.S. routes via GDL.

Flying Aeromexico to Puerto Vallarta feels like traveling with a local who genuinely wants you to fall in love with the place. The airline doesn’t just get you there, but also set the tone for your entire trip. From the moment you board, you’re surrounded by warm service, familiar flavors, and that unmistakable feeling of being welcomed. Flights from Mexico City and Guadalajara keep it simple and direct, skipping the usual foreign airline fuss and offering a more culturally connected journey.

The onboard experience leans into authenticity in the best way. Meals even feature real Mexican dishes, not watered-down imitations. Aeromexico’s 737s and 787s offer a solid Economy product, and the Premium Economy cabin gives you a little more breathing room and elevated dining. Business Class also brings lie-flat seats, coastal cuisine, and tequila tastings that get you in the vacation mindset early.

The Club Premier loyalty program adds value for frequent flyers, especially when combined with SkyTeam partners like Delta. Members get access to extra perks like lounge access in Mexico and the U.S., early boarding, and expanded baggage allowance. 

Aeromexico doesn’t treat Puerto Vallarta like just another beach stop. They time flights around local festivals and even offer tips on hidden spots if you chat with the crew. Roundtrip fares often fall between $150–250, and promos like the “Pacific Coast Explorer” let you pair Vallarta with places like Zihuatanejo. During shoulder season, award seats open up more often too, especially if you’re booking with Club Premier.

• Read next: Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

2. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class, Signature Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Canadian hospitality, bilingual crews, seasonal service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Air Canada’s “Snowbird Special” for $199. It includes Vancouver or Toronto stopovers up to 4 days with Canadian Rockies tour discounts, maple syrup tastings, plus Puerto Vallarta hotel vouchers and mariachi dinner show tickets

Air Canada to Puerto Vallarta feels exactly how you’d expect a Canadian escape to Mexico to go. It’s calm, friendly, and just a little bit sun-starved. Most travelers on board are there for the same reason—to ditch winter and thaw out somewhere warm. Direct routes from Vancouver and Toronto are popular for good reason, and fares usually land between $320 and $580.

Economy offers decent legroom for a long-haul beach flight, with seatback screens, USB charging ports, and full meal service that often includes both Canadian and Mexican options. Premium Economy adds more room to stretch and slightly upgraded dining, which can be worth it if you’re flying in from the east coast. Business Class on their 787s brings lie-flat seats, larger entertainment screens, and plated meals served with wine. The cabins aren’t too flashy, but they’re comfortable in all the right ways.

Aeroplan makes things smoother if you’re using points. Award seats open up more during shoulder season, and if you’ve hit 25K or 50K status, you’ll get lounge access and early boarding. The program is flexible, especially for regular snowbirds who make this trip every year.

Air Canada gets why this route matters. Fares often drop to $280 to $420 roundtrip, and seasonal deals like the “Snowbird Extended Stay” include perks like hotel discounts and dinner show vouchers. They plan these flights with long-term stays in mind, and you can feel that in the way everything’s set up.

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $177 roundtrip fare from Boston to Vancouver with Air Canada. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

3. 🇺🇸 Alaska Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle (SEA), Anchorage (ANC), Portland (PDX), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Class, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mileage Plan (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: West Coast focus, excellent customer service, generous loyalty program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Alaska’s “Pacific Paradise” companion fare. Mileage Plan cardholders get annual $99 companion tickets that work on Puerto Vallarta routes, essentially getting two people to PV for the price of one plus $99

Alaska Airlines has carved out a loyal following among West Coast travelers, and its routes to Puerto Vallarta feel like a natural extension of that. Whether you’re flying out of Seattle, Portland, or the Bay Area, the airline leans into laid-back, efficient, and friendly roots without trying too hard. Plus, fares usually range from $280 to $520, and service tends to punch above its price point.

Board Alaska’s Boeing 737s heading to Puerto Vallarta and you’ll find cabins built for comfort without the fluff. Main Cabin offers solid legroom and free messaging, while Premium Class gives you a noticeable boost with extra space, complimentary drinks, and earlier boarding. First Class features wide seats, better meals, and a quiet cabin that still feels relaxed rather than overly formal. It’s a great setup for anyone who values comfort without needing the luxury treatment.

Mileage Plan is seriously one of the best programs for Mexican beach trips. MVP status gets you free bags (crucial for hauling back Mexican souvenirs) and upgrades that actually clear, while the Oneworld partnership opens up tons of earning opportunities.

Alaska nails the Puerto Vallarta route because they understand West Coast beach culture. Winter sales regularly drop PV fares to $240-350 when Seattle folks are desperate for sunshine, and their crews genuinely get why this destination matters to rain-soaked Pacific Northwesterners. 

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Mexico

4. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA), Phoenix (PHX), Philadelphia (PHL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Flagship Business, Flagship First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Extensive network, reliable operations, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book AA’s “Texas to Tropics” same-day standby for $75 on Dallas routes. If your original Puerto Vallarta flight gets delayed, hop on earlier departures to beat weather delays and maximize beach time

American Airlines treats Puerto Vallarta like their personal Texas backyard extension, which makes sense since half of PV seems to be filled with folks from Dallas anyway. DFW connections work beautifully here as you’re flying from one warm place to another warm place. 

AA’s aircraft are mostly 737s and A321s, but the vibe changes on PV routes. Economy is standard but reliable, and Premium Economy gives you more room, priority perks, and better meals that feel worth the upgrade. Flagship Business on longer legs brings lie-flat seating, a quieter cabin, and service that feels a notch above the usual. These flights tend to run smoother than typical domestic routes, maybe because everyone’s in a better mood.

AAdvantage members have solid options here. Gold status gets you free bags and earlier boarding, which helps if you’re packing gear for the beach. Platinum or higher brings lounge access and better upgrade odds. Reward seats to PV stay fairly available, especially in spring and fall when the crowds ease up a bit.

What makes AA’s Puerto Vallarta service work is their understanding of Texas-Mexico connections. They schedule around major travel dates like spring break and winter holidays, and their Dallas hub keeps options flexible for spontaneous beach plans. Regular fares typically run $240-450, often beating other legacy carriers while delivering solid service. Seasonal sales also drop roundtrip fares to $200 to $320, and standby perks from DFW can save the day if delays hit. 

5. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), New York JFK, Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Reliable operations, extensive network, solid customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Delta’s “Vallarta Vacation Multiplier” during off-peak bookings – earn double SkyMiles on Puerto Vallarta flights booked 90+ days in advance, plus get priority restaurant reservations through their concierge service

Delta approaches Puerto Vallarta like they’re delivering customers to their favorite Mexican resort, and honestly, their reliability makes this route feel almost foolproof. Atlanta and Seattle connections work smoothly, while their partnership with Aeromexico creates seamless booking and baggage handling. 

The aircraft are well maintained and the experience feels a bit more polished than what you’d get on some other US carriers. Main Cabin has the basics covered, with seatback screens and snacks that actually hit the spot. Comfort+ shines on this route, giving you extra legroom, early boarding, and more relaxed inflight service. If you’re flying longer routes, Premium Select and Delta One give you upgraded meals, quieter cabins, and better rest before you hit the sand.

The SkyMiles program adds real value if you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta more than once a year. Delta’s partnership with Aeromexico makes it easier to earn and redeem points, and elite status comes with perks that actually help like free bags, early boarding, and better upgrade chances. Sky Club access can also be a game changer if your trip starts during a stormy travel season.

Delta’s Puerto Vallarta strength lies in treating it like a premium leisure destination rather than just another beach route. They coordinate with resort partners for arrival perks, offer seasonal packages that bundle flights with hotel deals, and their operational reliability means your PV vacation happens as planned. Fares usually run $260-480, competitive with others but with Delta’s signature operational consistency.

6. 🇺🇸 Frontier Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Denver (DEN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Stretch Seating
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Frontier Miles (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low fares, animal-themed aircraft, basic transportation
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Frontier’s “Works Bundle” for $59 when flying to Puerto Vallarta – includes carry-on bag, seat selection, and priority boarding, often cheaper than buying separately and essential for avoiding gate surprises

Frontier’s flights to Puerto Vallarta feel like a mix of budget travel chaos and beach-bound excitement. You’re boarding a plane with a whale or sea turtle painted on the tail, surrounded by passengers who know exactly what they signed up for. Denver flights are popular with travelers swapping snow for surf, and fares often start around $89 before add-ons. All in, you’re usually looking at $150 to $280 roundtrip, which still beats most full-service options.

Buckle up in Frontier’s wildlife-decorated A320s and embrace the budget airline adventure. Economy seats test your flexibility with 28-inch pitch that requires strategic positioning, while Stretch Seating becomes basically mandatory unless you’re under 5’5″. Everything from water to overhead bins costs extra, but when your base fare to PV started at under $100, those fees feel more manageable than usual.

Frontier Miles operates with no-frills simplicity that matches the airline perfectly. Earn points on flights, redeem for future beach trips, and no complicated elite tiers to navigate. The program serves its purpose for occasional Puerto Vallarta escapes, though you’re mostly locked into the Frontier ecosystem for redemptions.

This is the airline you book when your goal is more beach, less budget burn. Flash sales often drop base fares to $49 to $79, and even with bags and seats added, you’re still flying for $120 to $200. The animal-themed planes add some charm, and Denver’s efficient operations keep things moving.

7. 🇺🇸 Sun Country Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Ufly Rewards (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Midwest charm, seasonal service, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Sun Country’s “Snowbird Escape” packages for $199 – includes Minneapolis hotel vouchers for extended layovers, ice fishing gear storage, plus Puerto Vallarta arrival perks like beach club day passes and local brewery tours

Flying Sun Country to Puerto Vallarta feels like escaping winter with your entire hometown onboard. This isn’t just another beach flight, it’s a seasonal tradition for Minnesotans who know that trading snowbanks for surf is non-negotiable by January. Flights from Minneapolis run during peak winter months, and fares usually land between $220 and $420, making them a solid choice for budget-conscious sunseekers.

Economy offers standard comfort with crews who actually seem happy to be taking people to beach paradise, while First Class provides extra legroom and complimentary beverages that help start vacation mode. The whole operation feels like your neighbor’s cousin decided to start an airline and actually made it work.

Ufly Rewards is a no-frills loyalty program that fits the airline’s style. You earn points on flights and partner purchases, and redemptions are easy enough if you’re flying Sun Country a few times a year. There’s no elite status ladder to climb, just straightforward perks for loyal flyers.

What makes Sun Country stand out is how seriously it treats the winter migration to Mexico. Snowbird Escape packages start at $199 and often include little extras like resort day passes or brewery tours once you land. Flights are timed to match the season, crews know the drill, and the airline feels genuinely invested in helping frozen Midwesterners find the sun. 

8. 🇨🇦 Sunwing Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), Vancouver (YVR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Sunwing Rewards (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: All-inclusive packages, Canadian charter expertise, vacation focus
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Sunwing’s “All-Inclusive Advantage” for $299 – includes resort transfers, welcome drinks, activity credits, and guaranteed oceanview rooms, often saving $400+ versus booking flight and hotel separately

Sunwing is basically what happens when Canadians take vacation planning into their own hands. Instead of piecing together flights, hotels, and transfers, they just book it all at once and go. Routes from Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver make it easy to escape winter in one shot, with packages to Puerto Vallarta that cover everything from flights to oceanview rooms. Full deals usually run between $650 and $1200, and for many Canadians, it’s become a yearly ritual.

The cabin setup is built for vacation travel. Economy is no-frills but functional, and Premium gives you more legroom and a bit more breathing room to start your trip off right. You’ll notice a different kind of energy onboard as people are already talking about resort plans, excursions, and which all-inclusive has the best tacos. Flight crews also lean into the vacation spirit, and it shows.

When it comes to loyalty program, Sunwing Rewards is straightforward. You earn points when you book flight and resort packages, and redemption is focused on vacation perks. There are no complicated alliances or status ladders—just simple perks like priority check-in and the chance to score better rooms or resort upgrades.

Sunwing takes the stress out of planning a warm-weather escape. Packages often start at $299 for the add-ons alone, and that includes transfers, activity credits, and welcome drinks that help you shift into vacation mode fast. They time their flights around peak Canadian winter, work with trusted resorts, and keep the whole process efficient.

9. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), Washington Dulles (IAD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Global network, Star Alliance benefits, improved service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use United’s “Hub Hopper” strategy for Puerto Vallarta – book Chicago or Denver connections during their flash sales for often $100-200 cheaper fares than direct routes, plus earn bonus miles on each segment

United gets a lot of people to Puerto Vallarta, and lately, they’re doing it with fewer headaches than before. Their massive hub network connects travelers from all over the US, with Chicago, Denver, and Houston flights leading the charge. It’s not always the cheapest option, but with flash sales and well-timed bookings, fares can dip to $280-520, especially if you’re willing to hop through a hub city.

Cabin options cover the full spectrum. Economy has improved noticeably, with better meals, in-seat power, and newer aircraft on many PV routes. Premium Plus gives you more space, upgraded meals, and a quieter cabin that makes a difference on longer flights. Polaris Business takes it a step further with lie-flat seats and menus that sometimes lean into regional touches like chicken mole or fresh ceviche. It feels a little more thought out than your typical beach flight.

MileagePlus offers solid flexibility, especially with Star Alliance partners helping fill the gaps on international or connecting legs. Silver status means earlier boarding and free bags, while Gold and above unlock lounge access and better upgrade odds. If you’re flying during peak seasons, having status can make the airport experience a lot less stressful.

United’s real advantage is scale. They run multiple daily flights from key hubs, partner with Mexican carriers at PV airport, and build schedules that work for both weekend getaways and longer trips. Flash sales through Denver and Chicago sometimes drop roundtrip prices to $200-300, and bonus miles promotions give you more value per segment.

10. 🇲🇽 VivaAerobus

• 🏠 Hub: Monterrey (MTY), Guadalajara (GDL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Smart (Economy), Smart Premium
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Viva Points (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low Mexican fares, authentic local service, regional expertise
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book VivaAerobus’ “Mexican Magic” bundle for $49 – includes priority boarding, seat selection, and one free checked bag, essential for avoiding fees while getting authentic Mexican airline experience at unbeatable prices

VivaAerobus to Puerto Vallarta is Mexican budget aviation at its most authentic. You’re flying with locals who actually live this culture, paying fares that make American budget airlines look expensive, and experiencing PV the way Mexicans do rather than through gringo resort filters. Monterrey and Guadalajara connections serve domestic Mexican markets primarily, with occasional US routes. Fares start around $40-120 base, though fees add up.

Smart economy on VivaAerobus embraces no-frills Mexican efficiency with seats that prioritize cost over comfort, while Smart Premium offers extra legroom and priority boarding for reasonable fees. Don’t expect elaborate meal service, instead, you’ll find Mexican snacks for purchase that actually taste authentic, featuring local brands like Sabritas and regional specialties that beat typical airline food. 

Viva Points is straightforward and doesn’t overpromise. You earn points on flights and bundles, and redemptions are easy for future trips around Mexico. There’s no elite status to chase, just enough benefits to keep frequent travelers coming back when cost is the main concern.

VivaAerobus is for travelers who care more about getting to the beach than how they get there. Flash sales regularly drop fares to $25 to $55, and even with bags and extras, you’re usually under $150 roundtrip. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Airlines for Flying to Puerto Vallarta

Looking for insights on the finest flights to Puerto Vallarta? Below, we’ve compiled frequently asked questions about the top airlines for a trip to Puerto Vallarta, gathered from travelers like yourself.

What is the cheapest time to fly to Puerto Vallarta?

The cheapest times to fly to Puerto Vallarta are generally from January 8th to March 4th, May 14th to June 3rd, and August 6th to November 18th, with mid to late September being the absolute cheapest period. These times offer the best chances to find lower airfare and accommodation costs, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta. For more detailed information, you can visit Champion Traveler.

What’s the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between December and March. During these months, the weather is cool and dry, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. This period also offers the opportunity to witness humpback whales in Banderas Bay. However, this peak season might involve higher prices for flights and accommodations. For budget-conscious travelers, visiting during the low season (July to September) can be more affordable, but be prepared for hotter and wetter conditions. The least busy period is from June to October, offering good deals and fewer crowds, despite some rain​​.

How do you travel to Puerto Vallarta?

To travel to Puerto Vallarta, the most common method is by air, flying into the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). This airport is well-connected with flights from various locations both within Mexico and internationally. Once in Puerto Vallarta, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and buses for getting around the city. Alternatively, some visitors may choose to drive to Puerto Vallarta or arrive via a cruise ship, as the city is a popular cruise port.

Is it worth it to go to Puerto Vallarta?

Whether or not it’s worth it to go to Puerto Vallarta depends on your personal travel preferences and interests. Puerto Vallarta is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. It offers a variety of activities from relaxing on the beach to exploring the local cuisine and arts scene. If you enjoy coastal cities with a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, Puerto Vallarta could be a great destination for you. However, the value of the trip ultimately depends on your individual tastes and what you seek from your travel experiences.

What is the safest way to travel in Puerto Vallarta?

The safest way to travel in Puerto Vallarta typically involves using reputable transportation services. Here are some tips:

• Licensed Taxis: Always use official, licensed taxis. These are metered and can be hailed from designated taxi stands or booked through your hotel. Avoid unmarked or informal taxis.

• Ride-Sharing Services: Utilize established ride-sharing apps if available. They offer the convenience of booking through your phone and provide details about the driver and vehicle.

• Public Transportation: Buses are a common and affordable means to get around, though they might be less comfortable and slower.

• Rental Cars: If you’re comfortable driving in Mexico, renting a car from a reputable company is a good option, especially for exploring areas outside the city.

• Guided Tours: For exploring tourist attractions, consider organized tours. They provide safe transportation and knowledgeable guides.

• Walking: In well-traveled tourist areas, walking is safe during the day. However, always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Remember, safety also involves staying informed about local conditions, avoiding less secure areas, and keeping your belongings secure.

Concluding Thoughts on Puerto Vallarta’s Best Airlines

In wrapping up, Puerto Vallarta shines as a destination, offering a blend of breathtaking beaches, rich culture, and a pulsing heartbeat of Mexican hospitality. Whether it’s the adventure-seeker or the peace-lover, the city caters to all.

From the best Puerto Vallarta airline ensuring your journey starts on a high note, to the vibrant streets echoing with the rhythms of local life, every moment here is worth savoring. As a hub where the best of nature, culture, and comfort converge, Puerto Vallarta is more than just a travel destination; it’s an experience, a memory to cherish long after your journey ends.