The 10 Best Airlines for Flights to Sicily Right Now

354

Sicily stole my heart faster than I could say “cannoli.” After multiple visits to this Mediterranean paradise, I’ve flown enough airlines to separate the magnificent from the mediocre when heading to this Italian island.

While exploring the best places in Sicily, like the buzzing streets of Palermo and the coastal charm of Cefalù, I realized how critical choosing the right airline can be. Some carriers delivered me rested and ready to explore those ancient Greek ruins, while others had me arriving cranky and caffeine deprived. I analyzed 150 flight routes and 24 airlines that fly to Sicily, taking into account the amenities, pricing, seat comfort, and on-time performance. Trust me, your journey to Sicily should be as delicious as the food waiting for you there.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Sicily

Looking for the cheapest flights to Sicily? 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 $491 roundtrip fare from Boston to Catania in May. 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 Sicily in 2025.

1. 🇩🇪 TUI Fly

• 🏠 Hub: Hannover (HAJ), Düsseldorf (DUS), Munich (MUC), Stuttgart (STR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TUI Card (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Charter efficiency, German organization, vacation packages
• 🧠 Pro Tip: TUI’s best Sicily deals often show up in their “Fly & Stay” bundles. Look in late spring or early fall when prices drop and crowds thin out. 

Flying with TUI to Sicily feels like joining a well-practiced summer tradition. Routes from cities like Munich and Düsseldorf are packed with travelers who’ve been escaping to the Mediterranean for years. It’s not flashy, but it’s efficient. Fares usually fall between $280 and $480, especially when bundled with hotel stays, and everything is built around making vacation easy.

German charter airlines prioritize getting you there over luxury frills. TUI’s Boeing 737s feature Economy seating designed for vacation transport rather than business comfort, while Premium offers extra legroom and priority boarding that matters when everyone’s excited about Sicilian adventures. Meal service focuses on German favorites with Mediterranean touches, featuring dishes like schnitzel alongside Italian-inspired options that bridge both cultures during the flight.

The TUI Card program is simple and useful for travelers who book packages. You can earn points on flights and hotel deals, and they go toward upgrades or perks like priority check-in. No complicated rules, just rewards that make sense if you travel with TUI often.

TUI’s package deals eliminate planning stress by bundling flights with quality accommodations, their resort partnerships ensure beachfront locations, and seasonal scheduling targets peak European summer vacation periods. Munich and Düsseldorf operations handle massive vacation volumes efficiently, while their vacation-focused approach means everything from baggage policies to ground transportation caters to beach-bound Germans. 

• Read next: Top Attractions in Europe

2. 🇧🇪 Brussels Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Brussels (BRU)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Belgian hospitality, European connections, quality cuisine
• 🧠 Pro Tip:  Keep an eye out for Brussels Airlines’ Sicily flight deals during spring and fall. Booking early often unlocks free Brussels stopovers where you can add a chocolate tasting, brewery tour, or museum pass at no extra cost.

Brussels Airlines brings a quieter kind of charm to Sicily. The flight from Brussels to Palermo or Catania feels like moving from one food-obsessed culture to another. Belgians take their time with things, and that same energy shows up here—from the smooth airport experience to the calm, well-run cabin. Fares usually range from $320 to $580, especially if you plan ahead.

Onboard, the vibe is understated but thoughtful. Economy gets you decent legroom and a little taste of Belgium with complimentary chocolates. Premium Economy adds more room and a step up in food quality, while Business Class gives you lie-flat seating, Belgian wines, and surprisingly good meals that sometimes mix Northern and Southern European flavors. It’s not loud about it, but it’s solid across the board.

Miles & More is a good fit for travelers who fly within Europe often. It’s easy to earn and redeem points for Mediterranean getaways, and higher tiers unlock perks like lounge access in Brussels, where you’ll find local beers, cheeses, and light bites that feel more like a café than an airline lounge.

What sets Brussels Airlines apart from Sicily is genuine understanding of both cultures involved in this journey. Seasonal promotions often target Belgian families seeking Mediterranean sunshine, with packages starting around $280-420 that bundle Brussels cultural experiences with Sicilian beach access.

3. 🇮🇪 Ryanair

• 🏠 Hub: Dublin (DUB), plus bases across Europe
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Priority & 2 Cabin Bags
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None (independent operation)
• ☕ Perks: Rock-bottom fares, extensive European network, no-frills efficiency
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Always check in online through the Ryanair app 24 hours before your flight to avoid steep airport check-in fees. Add bags and seat selection during booking to lock in the lowest prices and avoid surprises later.

Nobody does cheap Sicily flights quite like Ryanair, the airline that turned European budget travel into an art form of creative fee structures. With flights into Catania and Palermo from dozens of cities, it’s often the cheapest way to get to the island. You’ll regularly find base fares between $20 and $95, especially if you book early and pack light.

The inflight experience in Ryanair’s Boeing 737s is no frills, to put it gently. Seats don’t recline, legroom challenges yoga practitioners, and everything from water to napkins carries a price tag. But here’s the thing: the planes are safe, clean, and get you to Sicily faster than you can complain about the hard landings. Flight attendants hustle through cabins selling everything from scratch-off lottery tickets to perfume, creating this uniquely chaotic energy.

There’s no loyalty program or frequent flyer perks. You pay for what you need, and that’s it. If you’re a regular Ryanair passenger, your “elite status” is knowing how to game the system, which is basically booking the right add-ons at the right time, avoiding fees, and packing like a pro.

What makes Ryanair work is how accessible it makes Sicily. Flash sales sometimes drop fares below $30, and the airline connects cities you wouldn’t expect, like Krakow or Valencia, directly to the island. Sure, there’s a trade-off in comfort, but if your priority is getting to the Mediterranean without breaking the bank, Ryanair gets you there faster than you can say “arancini.”

• Read next: Best Places to Visit in Sicily
• You may also like: Most Beautiful Places in Europe

4. 🇺🇸 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 multi-city search to book an open-jaw itinerary, like Atlanta to Rome and Palermo back to the US. It’s often cheaper than roundtrip and lets you explore more of Italy without backtracking.

Sicily via Delta feels like taking the long way around the world to reach paradise, but sometimes American reliability beats European chaos. Atlanta to Rome connections work smoothly before that final hop to Catania, and Delta’s partnership with ITA Airways creates seamless booking despite the complexity.

Premium Select becomes genuinely valuable on these marathon routes to Sicily, offering lie-flat adjacent seats that help you arrive human rather than zombified. Economy meals have improved to “actually edible” status, while Business Class delivers proper dining with wine selections that sometimes include decent Italian options. Comfort+ provides that crucial extra legroom for long-haul flights that make or break your Sicily arrival experience.

SkyMiles becomes more useful on long-haul Sicily trips, especially if you’re combining flights with ITA Airways. Medallion status helps with lounge access and upgrade chances, and bonus miles on each leg add up fast. Booking with points is hit or miss, but shoulder season tends to offer better value.

Delta may not fly direct to Sicily, but they make the process feel more manageable. Their strong Rome connection, helpful customer service, and smooth rebooking system can make all the difference when you’re trying to avoid the headaches of European budget carriers. It’s not the cheapest route, with fares around $650 to $950, but the consistency and service can be worth it, especially for longer trips.

• Read next: Delta One vs First Class Guide

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 $506 roundtrip fare from Boston to Sicily with Delta. 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.

5. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Heathrow lounges, afternoon tea service, extensive network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re flying through London, book British Airways’ stopover option for a mini city break. You can add up to five days in London, often with free or discounted perks like theater tickets, afternoon tea, or museum access before continuing on to Sicily.

British Airways adds a touch of polish to the Sicily experience. Flying from London Heathrow to Catania is smooth and well-timed, with frequent departures that work for both UK travelers and Americans routing through London. Fares usually land between $420 and $680, and while it’s not the cheapest, it often feels the most put together.

The cabins reflect that signature British calm. Economy includes friendly service, decent legroom, and that afternoon tea touch that makes the flight feel just a bit more relaxed. Premium Economy is where the value really shows, offering more space, upgraded meals, and a quieter atmosphere. Club World has lie-flat seats that may look unusual but sleep incredibly well, and the wine list often includes a solid Italian pick or two.

Executive Club works especially well for this route. Flights to Sicily can be booked with 20,000 to 30,000 Avios, and elite members get perks like lounge access at Heathrow, early boarding, and better seat selection. The Oneworld network also makes connecting across Italy easy if Sicily is just one stop on your Mediterranean trip.

BA understands that many passengers use Sicily as a base for broader Mediterranean exploration, offering flexible booking options and partner connections throughout Italy. Seasonal sales often feature Catania packages starting around $380-520, while their cultural partnerships include museum passes and historical tour discounts. 

• Read next: British Airways First Class Guide

6. 🇹🇷 Turkish Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Comfort Class, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles&Smiles (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Outstanding cuisine, generous baggage policy, Istanbul Airport facilities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For US travelers, booking a multi-city itinerary like JFK–Istanbul–Catania and back via Palermo–Istanbul–JFK often comes out cheaper than roundtrip to one city. It’s also a great way to experience more of Sicily without backtracking.

Flying to Sicily with Turkish Airlines feels less like a detour and more like a bonus destination. Routes to Catania or Palermo through Istanbul might take a little longer, but the trade-off is comfort, incredible food, and a layover that’s actually worth looking forward to. 

Food becomes the star attraction on Turkish flights to Sicily, featuring authentic Turkish cuisine that puts most airline meals to shame. Economy passengers enjoy lamb dishes, fresh bread, and Turkish delight that tastes homemade. Comfort Class provides extra legroom with enhanced Ottoman-inspired dining, while Business Class delivers exceptional lie-flat comfort with meals showcasing both Turkish and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Even the coffee service reflects Turkish expertise rather than generic airline brew.

The Miles&Smiles program pairs well with Star Alliance connections if you’re coming from the US or elsewhere in Europe. Elite status unlocks access to Turkish’s Istanbul lounges, which are some of the best in the world. Think buffets, private rest areas, and massage chairs ideal if you’ve got a long connection.

And then there’s Istanbul Airport itself. It’s not just a stop, it’s part of the trip. Between the shopping, quiet zones, and local food stalls, the layover almost feels intentional. Turkish’s Sicily strategy focuses on delivering premium experiences at competitive prices, with seasonal promotions often starting around $420-580 that include cultural tours and dining experiences. Istanbul connections typically run 3-6 hours, perfect for sampling Turkish coffee culture or exploring the airport’s extensive shopping and dining options.

7. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZUR), Geneva (GVA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Swiss chocolate service, Alpine wine selection, punctual operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Add a Zurich stopover to your Sicily itinerary with Swiss’ stopover program. You can explore the Alps, hop on scenic trains, and tour chocolate factories before heading south. It’s a smart way to see two sides of Europe in one trip.

What makes Swiss stand out isn’t just the punctuality, it’s how calm and quietly elegant the whole journey feels. From check-in to landing, there’s a sense of ease that’s hard to find with other airlines. Even in Economy, you’ll get a warm meal, friendly service, and a little bar of real Swiss chocolate to sweeten the descent into Catania or Palermo.

Layovers in Zurich feel intentional rather than annoying. The airport is clean, quiet, and full of Alpine character. If you’ve got lounge access, expect fresh food, local wines, and sweeping views of the mountains. Miles & More members also benefit from strong upgrade potential, and partner airlines make it easy to connect from North America or other parts of Europe.

Flights to Sicily typically range from $520-$780, but they often include extras that make the cost feel justified. Premium Economy adds genuine comfort without the Business Class price tag, and Business offers lie-flat seats, refined meals, and a peaceful experience from gate to gate.

Swiss punctuality becomes genuinely valuable when connecting to Sicily, where Italian timing can be… flexible. Zurich operations handle Mediterranean routes with mountain-climbing precision, ensuring your Sicilian vacation starts on schedule rather than in airport delays. Seasonal sales often feature Sicily deals starting around $450-620, while their cultural partnerships include Alpine experience packages that create unique contrast with Mediterranean exploration. 

8. 🇮🇹 Neos Air

• 🏠 Hub: Milan Malpensa (MXP), Rome Fiumicino (FCO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None (charter focus)
• ☕ Perks: Italian charter expertise, vacation packages, Mediterranean focus
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Skip the DIY approach and go for one of the Sicily vacation bundles. Flights, hotel transfers, and even Etna tours or aperitivo nights are often rolled into one price. Less clicking, more relaxing.

Neos Air doesn’t feel like a typical airline, and that’s the point. It’s built around the vacation mindset. These aren’t business routes or red-eyes for road warriors. They’re sun-seeking, sandal-wearing, let’s-go-get-gelato kind of flights. From Milan or Rome, it’s a direct hop into Catania or Palermo, and the crowd on board is just as ready for the beach as you are.

The planes are no-frills, but they do the job. Economy is casual and perfectly fine for a short flight. Premium gets you a bit more space, and the inflight meal might actually make you smile—pasta, prosciutto, maybe a glass of wine if you’re lucky. Nothing fancy, just solid Italian comfort.

Charter operations mean no traditional loyalty programs, but Neos focuses on vacation-specific benefits like resort partnerships, activity discounts, and ground transportation that caters to leisure travelers. Repeat customers often receive booking preferences and package upgrades that add real value to Sicilian holidays.

Neos perfected the Sicily vacation formula by focusing exclusively on leisure travel rather than trying to compete with full-service carriers. Sales are frequent during the summer and shoulder seasons, with full vacation packages starting around $320 to $480. That often includes flights, hotel transfers, and a few perks like guided tours or dinner credits.

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: Check for United’s “European Explorer” award deals during off-peak months. You can sometimes book Polaris Business for 70,000 miles instead of the usual 110,000, especially when routing through cities like Frankfurt, Zurich, or Rome.

Reaching Sicily through United requires a journey that usually involves a layover in Rome, Frankfurt, or Zurich, with the final leg to Catania or Palermo handled by a Star Alliance partner like Lufthansa or ITA Airways. It takes some planning, but when it works, it works well.

Premium Plus can be a game-changer on long-haul flights. There’s noticeably more space, better meals, and a calmer cabin, which makes a huge difference when you’re flying across multiple time zones. Polaris Business is where United has stepped up the most, offering lie-flat comfort, upgraded meals, and lounge access that actually feels like a perk. Even in Economy, you’ll get solid entertainment and decent WiFi.

For loyalty program, MileagePlus gives you access to a wide range of award routes across Europe, and Premier status helps smooth out long travel days with early boarding, extra baggage, and lounge access. When you’re connecting through multiple cities, those small comforts go a long way.

Fares typically range from $750 to $1200, but booking through partner award redemptions or catching a promo can shave a few hundred off the cost. Complex routing often saves $200-400 versus direct competitors, while United’s recent service improvements mean your Sicilian adventure has better chances of happening as planned rather than dissolving into airport chaos.

10. 🇬🇧 EasyJet

• 🏠 Hub: London Gatwick (LGW), Amsterdam (AMS), Berlin (BER), Milan Malpensa (MXP)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Speedy Boarding, Extra Legroom
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None (independent operation)
• ☕ Perks: Extensive European network, competitive pricing, frequent departures
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Download EasyJet’s mobile app and check in online exactly 30 days before departure to secure better seat assignments for free, plus book “Hands Free” baggage service to avoid airport queues entirely

EasyJet made flying to Sicily feel more like catching a train. With direct flights to Catania and Palermo from dozens of European cities, it’s one of the most convenient and affordable ways to reach the island. Flights from London, Amsterdam, or Berlin can cost less than a taxi ride but just be ready to book fast when deals drop. 

The experience is bare-bones but efficient. Economy comes with tight seating, but it’s manageable for short hops. Extra Legroom is worth the small splurge if you’re tall, and Speedy Boarding is helpful if you want overhead space without the stampede. Don’t expect free snacks or entertainment, but most flights are under three hours anyway. 

Loyalty programs don’t exist because EasyJet built their business model around transparent pricing rather than complicated point schemes. You pay for exactly what you need: base fare, seat selection, baggage allowance, priority boarding. No hidden elite tiers or alliance partnerships, just straightforward transportation economics.

Base fares start around $35-120, though seat selection and baggage fees quickly multiply costs. Flash sales regularly drop Sicilian fares to $25-45 (not joking), connecting secondary European airports to Catania and Palermo with reliable frequency. Operations prioritize quick turnarounds over luxury amenities, but when EasyJet delivers you to Mount Etna’s shadow or Taormina’s ancient theaters for less than a nice dinner cost, those cramped seats feel like minor inconveniences.

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

Looking for detailed insights on the best air travel options to Sicily? Here, we address common queries about top airline choices for a Sicilian journey, gathered from fellow travelers like you.

Does any airline fly direct to Sicily?

Yes, you can find direct flights to Sicily from many airlines. This includes big international ones and budget-friendly options too. You can fly directly from major cities in Europe and sometimes from other places, especially in the busy tourist season. This makes it easy for travelers from all over to get to Sicily.

Which airports have flights to Sicily?

You can fly to Sicily from many airports around the world. Big ones in Europe, like London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, and Frankfurt, all have flights to Sicily. Also, smaller airports in Italy and other Mediterranean countries offer direct or connecting flights to Sicily’s main airports in Catania and Palermo. With so many options, travelers from different places find it easy to get to Sicily.

Which airport is better to fly into for Sicily? 

When flying to Sicily, pick the airport that’s closest to where you’re going. If you’re headed to eastern Sicily, like Taormina or Mount Etna, Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is your best bet. For western Sicily, like Palermo city and its nearby spots, Palermo Airport is a better choice. Both airports have flights from top airlines, giving you lots of options. Make sure to choose the airport that matches your travel plans in Sicily for a smoother trip.

How do I get to Sicily?

To get to Sicily, you have great choices. Fly with well-known airlines like Delta, British Airways, or Turkish Airlines. They have some of the best international routes to Sicily, landing at big airports like Catania and Palermo. If you’re looking to save money, budget airlines Ryanair and EasyJet offer cheaper flights from many European cities. Once you’re in Sicily, you can travel around the island by renting a car, catching a bus, or taking a train. This way, you’ll get to see Sicily’s amazing culture and beautiful scenery.

Is it worth going to Sicily?

Absolutely, Sicily is a must-visit destination! Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a unique travel experience. From ancient Greek temples to beautiful beaches, Sicily has something for every traveler. Airlines like Swiss and Delta provide Best airlines from the US to Sicily, making the journey as memorable as the stay. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, food lover, or nature admirer, Sicily offers an unparalleled adventure that’s definitely worth experiencing.

Which airlines fly out of Sicily?

Several airlines operate flights out of Sicily, providing both domestic and international connections. The island has a few key airports, with the main ones being Palermo Airport (Falcone Borsellino Airport) and Catania-Fontanarossa Airport. Here are some airlines that commonly fly out of these Sicilian airports:

• Alitalia: Italy’s national carrier, offering flights to various destinations in Italy and Europe.

• Ryanair: A low-cost airline providing budget-friendly flights to numerous European destinations.

• EasyJet: Another popular low-cost carrier with routes to various cities in Europe.

• Lufthansa: German airline offering connections to Germany and other international destinations.

• Air Italy (formerly Meridiana): This airline, based in Sardinia, offers flights from Sicily to various Italian and international destinations.

• Vueling: A Spanish low-cost airline with European destinations.

• British Airways: Offering flights to the UK and connecting to its extensive global network.

• Air France: Providing connections to France and beyond.

• KLM: Dutch carrier connecting Sicily with the Netherlands and other international destinations.

• Swiss International Air Lines: Connecting Sicily with Switzerland and other locations.

Flying out of Sicily, you have plenty of options. Airlines here offer both flights within Italy and to places across Europe and beyond. Remember, the airlines and where they fly to can change with the seasons. It’s a good idea to always check the latest flight schedules for the most current information. This way, you can plan your trip knowing exactly what options are available from Sicily.

Concluding Thoughts on Sicily’s Best Airlines

Exploring Sicily is truly a journey to remember, and the right airline can make it even more special. Whether you’re looking for luxury, a tight budget solution, or a flight with unique perks, there’s an airline that fits your travel style.

For those who love to travel in comfort, Delta Air Lines and British Airways are top choices. They offer excellent flights to Sicily with a wide range of amenities. On these flights, you can expect high-quality service and a comfortable journey.

If you’re watching your budget, don’t worry. Ryanair and EasyJet offer affordable flights without compromising on safety and essential comforts. These airlines are perfect for savvy travelers looking to save money for more adventures in Sicily.

But there’s more to consider. Each airline has its unique charm. Some offer amazing in-flight meals, while others have great entertainment options or extra-comfy seats. Think about what matters most to you during a flight.

Also, remember the little details. Check baggage allowances, flight times, and layover durations. These can greatly affect your travel experience.

As you plan your trip to Sicily, remember that the journey is part of the adventure. The right airline can set the tone for your entire Sicilian experience. Think about your preferences, do a little research, and choose the airline that best suits your travel needs. And of course, consider these top winter destinations in January to find the ideal spot in Sicily to visit.