Top 10 Airlines Offering the Best Flights to Azores in 2025

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The Azores blew my mind with landscapes that look straight out of a fantasy novel. After testing nearly every airline that flies to this Portuguese archipelago, I can tell you there’s a massive difference between arriving ready to explore versus needing a recovery day.

While researching the best places in Azores, like Ponta Delgada with its black and white mosaic streets and the stunning lakeside vistas of Sete Cidades, I discovered not all flights to paradise are created equal. After analyzing 75 flight routes to the Azores, I ranked the best airlines in terms of the price, customer service quality, route coverage, and seat comfort. Whether you want direct routes or bargain deals that actually respect your comfort, I’ve sorted the exceptional from the avoidable for your Azores adventure in 2025.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to the Azores

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

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I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $403 roundtrip fare from Boston to Ponta Delgada 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 the Azores in 2025.

1. 🇵🇹 Azores Airlines (formerly SATA)

• 🏠 Hub: João Paulo II Airport, Terceira (TER) & Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (PDL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SATA Imagine – partnerships with TAP Air Portugal
• ☕ Perks: Island-hopping expertise, local crew knowledge, authentic Azorean hospitality
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the inter-island passes for serious savings if visiting multiple islands. Their pilots know these Atlantic crosswinds better than anyone.

When it comes to getting to the Azores, Azores Airlines isn’t just your best bet, they’re pretty much your only real option if you want to do it right. Sure, other airlines can get you to São Miguel, but these folks have been mastering the art of Atlantic island travel for decades. Flying with them feels less like boarding a generic airline and more like having locals show you the way home.

Flying from Boston, Toronto, or Newark, Economy seating on the A321neo is surprisingly comfortable, with 32 inches of legroom and crews who treat you like family. Premium Economy gives you early boarding, extra space, and room for that second bag filled with hiking gear or local wine. Business Class is a full step up, offering lie-flat seats, Portuguese wines, and a calm, cabin-wide sense that you’re already halfway into vacation mode.

What sets them apart is how seamlessly they connect the islands. Need to delay a flight so you can chase waterfalls or hike one more caldera? Their ground crews and pilots actually work with you instead of against you. And when fog rolls in (which it will), their pilots handle it like clockwork

SATA Imagine makes sense if you’re planning multiple trips or serious island hopping. Their partnership with TAP Air Portugal opens up European routing options, while their seasonal inter-island passes drop to around $220 for unlimited flights between islands. It’s a steal when individual hops run $150 each.

• Read next: Best Places to Visit in the Azores
• You may also like: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
• For more reading: Top Things to Do in the Azores

2. 🇮🇪 Ryanair

• 🏠 Hub: Dublin (DUB), plus bases across Europe
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (that’s it – no frills, no pretense)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None – they’d probably charge you to join one
• ☕ Perks: Dirt-cheap fares, punctual departures, gets you there alive
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Pack light and print your boarding pass at home. Seriously. Their fees for forgotten basics will cost more than your actual ticket.

Ryanair to the Azores is about getting there on a shoestring, no illusions attached. Their seasonal flights to Ponta Delgada from hubs like London, Milan, or Madrid often dip as low as $30-$60 one-way, and if you’re careful with the extras, it’s one of the cheapest ways to land in the middle of the Atlantic.

The cabin setup is exactly what you’d expect: tight 30-inch pitch seats, no free food or drinks, and every add-on (from bags to boarding passes) costs extra. But the planes are newer Boeing 737s, and when Ryanair says they’ll get you there on time, they usually do. Flight attendants keep things moving, and there’s a certain charm in the airline’s “just get on and sit down” attitude.

Here’s the thing about Ryanair’s Azores service: it’s opened up these incredible islands to budget travelers who couldn’t justify $600+ fares on traditional carriers. Flying from London, Milan, or Madrid for under $100 roundtrip means you can spend your money on the islands instead of getting there. Stick to the rules, pack smart, and you’ll have more cash for island tours and local seafood.

No loyalty program means no complicated earning structures or redemption headaches. You pay rock-bottom prices for basic transportation, period. Ryanair’s mobile app also works well for managing bookings and avoiding counter fees, while their seasonal route network connects the Azores to major European cities during peak summer months.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Europe
• You may also like: Top Attractions in São Miguel

3. 🇺🇸 Delta Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York-JFK (JFK), Boston (BOS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, First, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – partners with Virgin Atlantic and Air France-KLM
• ☕ Perks: Reliable US connections, premium airport lounges, solid customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Boston-Ponta Delgada flights before April to catch deals under $750. Fares spike fast by late spring, especially around festival season.

Delta’s seasonal service from Boston to Ponta Delgada brings a level of comfort you don’t usually find on niche island routes. Instead of squeezing into a tight low-cost carrier seat, you’re flying on a wide-body A330 with enough space to stretch, real meals, and a crew that seems genuinely excited to be headed for the Azores.

Main Cabin gives you more legroom than most domestic flights, and the inflight entertainment is solid for the five-hour hop across the Atlantic. Comfort+ adds early boarding and extra space, which makes a big difference on overnight returns. If you’re splurging, Delta One offers lie-flat seats, upgraded meals, and a quieter cabin.

Connections through Boston Logan are smooth, especially for East Coasters, and Delta’s alliance with Air France-KLM opens up alternate routes via Paris or Amsterdam when direct flights sell out. Their reliable customer support also stands out if weather causes disruptions.

SkyMiles offers decent value for Azores travel, though award availability can be spotty during peak summer months. Look out for seasonal sales around March when prices often drop below $750 roundtrip, especially for spring and early fall. It’s a smart way to beat the summer crowds while still catching the islands at their most beautiful.

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 $399 roundtrip fare from Boston to Terceira 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.

4. 🇱🇻 Primera Air

• 🏠 Hub: Originally Riga (RIX) – now operating as UK-based charter service
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None – focus on competitive charter pricing
• ☕ Perks: Direct UK-Azores routes, competitive group rates, flexible scheduling
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on their Stansted-Ponta Delgada charters during summer. These often undercut legacy carriers by $100 or more and skip the hassle of Lisbon transfers.

Primera Air’s comeback story is one of the more unexpected twists in European air travel. After shutting down in 2018, they’ve returned with a tighter, more practical charter model, and it’s great news for UK travelers aiming for the Azores. Their direct Stansted to Ponta Delgada service skips the usual Lisbon layover and fills a much-needed niche.

Economy comes with standard seating on Airbus A321s and just enough space for the three-hour flight. Premium Economy adds a few creature comforts, like more legroom and priority boarding, though this airline is more about simplicity than luxury. The experience is typical of European charter travel—efficient, polite, and focused on getting you to your destination with minimal distractions.

Where Primera stands out is in how flexible their service can be. Unlike larger airlines locked into fixed schedules, Primera adjusts flights based on seasonal demand and works well for families or groups booking trips together. Stansted is also far less chaotic than Heathrow, making for a smoother departure and arrival process overall.

There’s no loyalty scheme to track, but that also means pricing is straightforward. Roundtrip fares from London to the Azores typically fall between $400 and $550 during off-peak months. If you’re booking with a group, tour operators or Primera’s charter desk can often offer additional discounts that make the trip even more budget-friendly.

5. 🇪🇸 Air Europa

• 🏠 Hub: Madrid-Barajas (MAD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SUMA – SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Madrid connections, Spanish hospitality, competitive Iberian pricing
• ☕ Pro Tip: Madrid-Ponta Delgada runs year-round with good frequencies. Perfect for combining Azores with mainland Spain or connecting from Latin America.

Air Europa might not get the same attention as Iberia, but their service to the Azores is impressively consistent. The Madrid-Ponta Delgada route is available year-round, and their crews bring a friendly, laid-back vibe that feels genuinely Spanish without being over the top. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to pair the Azores with time in mainland Spain or need an easy transfer from South America.

Cabin-wise, Economy delivers 31 inches of pitch with complimentary snacks and beverages that feel more generous than typical European short-haul service. Premium Economy adds valuable legroom for the 2.5-hour flight, plus priority boarding that matters when connecting through Madrid’s sprawling terminal. Business Class adds wider seating and a proper meal, especially helpful if you’re arriving from Latin America and want to reset before hitting the islands.

Madrid-Barajas is a logical hub for Azores trips. It’s well-organized, with plenty of SkyTeam partners feeding into Air Europa’s network. If you’re planning to see both Spain and the Azores in one go, this routing makes the transition seamless.

Sales often bring fares down to $280-350 roundtrip, especially during winter or early spring. Booking directly through their Spanish site sometimes gives better deals than third-party platforms, and it’s worth checking during flash sale periods when prices can drop without much notice.

6. 🇵🇹 TAP Air Portugal

• 🏠 Hub: Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Plus, Executive (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TAP Miles&Go – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Portuguese expertise, excellent Lisbon connections, authentic local knowledge
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Take advantage of TAP’s Portugal Stopover. You can stay in Lisbon or Porto for up to 5 days at no extra airfare when flying to the Azores from North America.

TAP Air Portugal is hands-down the smartest choice for anyone serious about exploring the Azores properly. As Portugal’s flag carrier, they don’t just fly to the islands, they understand them. TAP operates the most comprehensive Azores network from their Lisbon hub, with multiple daily flights to both São Miguel and Terceira, plus seasonal service to other islands that makes multi-island trips actually feasible without breaking the bank.

TAP’s A320s and A321neos give you 30-31 inches of legroom in Economy, with complimentary Portuguese wines and snacks that remind you you’re entering a culture that takes food seriously. Economy Plus adds extra legroom and priority perks, while Executive class delivers proper lie-flat seats on transatlantic routes and angled-flat seats on European connections. It’s perfect if you’re combining the Azores with mainland Portugal exploration.

When it comes to loyalty programs, Miles&Go is worth signing up for, especially if you’re pairing the Azores with other destinations in Europe or flying Star Alliance partners. Miles earned on transatlantic flights can add up fast, and award tickets to the Azores are often available during shoulder season. Roundtrip fares from the US East Coast usually drop to $550-$650 when booked during TAP’s flash sales, and booking direct often unlocks stopover perks and better seat availability.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Lisbon

7. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Washington Dulles (IAD), Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – Star Alliance member with no expiring miles
• ☕ Perks: Strong US network, reliable operations, ConnectionSaver technology
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Newark-Ponta Delgada early if you’re eyeing summer travel. The route fills fast, especially with families visiting the Azores during peak months.

For East Coast travelers, United’s nonstop route from Newark to Ponta Delgada is one of the easiest ways to reach the Azores. It’s a summer-only flight, but the convenience of skipping European layovers can make a big difference. Instead of piecing together connections through Lisbon or Madrid, this route offers a direct hop to São Miguel with just one airline and a single check-in.

Onboard, things are pretty straightforward. Standard Economy gets you the usual 31 inches of legroom, free meals, and solid inflight entertainment. Economy Plus adds a few much-needed inches for taller travelers and helps ease the jet lag. Polaris Business comes with lie-flat seating and upgraded meals, but there are only a handful of seats available on this aircraft, so booking early is essential if you’re aiming to fly up front.

MileagePlus remains one of the more practical loyalty programs for U.S. flyers. Award space on this route can be surprisingly decent, especially if you’re flexible. United often offers sales in early spring for shoulder-season travel, with roundtrip fares hovering around $700-$850. Throw in free checked bags and Economy Plus upgrades for Premier members, and it becomes a solid option for a stress-free trip to the Azores.

Newark isn’t always known for smooth travel, but United’s Terminal C does a better job than most expect. Their ConnectionSaver tool even holds flights for late arrivals when possible, which is a lifesaver if you’re flying in from another U.S. city during storm season. 

• Read next: United Airlines First Class Guide

8. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance founding member
• ☕ Perks: German efficiency, excellent European connections, premium lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Lufthansa’s Frankfurt-Ponta Delgada route during spring or fall for lower fares and easier award availability. Shoulder season means fewer crowds and better hotel rates across the islands.

Lufthansa’s Frankfurt-Azores service is ideal for travelers who value reliability and smooth connections. The twice-weekly schedule is thoughtfully built around week-long island getaways, and the airline’s reputation for punctuality holds strong even on leisure routes. Flights leave Frankfurt on time, land in Ponta Delgada without surprises, and let you relax into your trip from the start.

Settle into Economy and you’ll immediately notice the difference. We’re talking seats that don’t feel like medieval torture devices, actual legroom at 31-32 inches, and meals that remind you some airlines still care about food quality. Step up to Premium Economy and those extra inches make the 4-hour flight genuinely comfortable, while Business class delivers the kind of service that justifies connecting through Europe instead of flying direct from North America. 

Miles & More rewards loyal customers with some of the best Star Alliance redemption rates available, though the real value comes during Lufthansa’s frequent sales periods. Spring promotions often drop Frankfurt-Ponta Delgada to $450-600 roundtrip, perfectly timed for those gorgeous shoulder season months when the Azores bloom without the summer crowds. 

Frankfurt Airport can be a maze, but Lufthansa knows how to make it manageable. Terminal 1 is laid out efficiently, with plenty of signage and surprisingly good food options. Coming off a long-haul flight, that familiarity and predictability make a huge difference. Whether you’re connecting from New York, Tokyo, or Cape Town, it’s one of the few major hubs that keeps stress to a minimum.

9. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZUR), Geneva (GVA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (shared with Lufthansa Group)
• ☕ Perks: Swiss precision, alpine hospitality, excellent chocolates onboard
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Grab a window seat on the right side for unforgettable views of the Alps before crossing into Atlantic skies.

Flying Swiss to the Azores feels like checking into a boutique hotel that happens to be cruising at 35,000 feet. The Zurich-Ponta Delgada route is seasonal, but when it runs, it offers one of the most stunning transitions in European aviation—leaving snowy peaks behind and landing among volcanic coastlines in under five hours.

You’ll appreciate Swiss quality from the moment you board their pristine A220s. Economy pampers you with 32 inches of legroom and those famous Swiss chocolates that make the 4.5-hour journey feel like a treat rather than transportation. Premium Economy adds enough legroom and thoughtful extras to elevate the journey, while Business class offers smooth service, quiet cabins, and full meals that feel restaurant-worthy even on a short hop.

Miles & More lets you redeem across Star Alliance, and Swiss frequently offers off-season roundtrip deals between $500-700. That’s solid value considering the airline’s premium experience and punctual reputation. Booking direct during winter or early spring sales often unlocks special fares, perfect timing if you’re planning a shoulder-season escape to the Azores.

Zurich Airport runs like clockwork, but it’s not all function over feeling. You’ll find clean, well-marked terminals, surprisingly good food options, and staff who actually seem invested in making your transfer easy. Short layovers feel generous, and for those arriving early, the Alpine wine bars and cheese counters aren’t a bad way to start a vacation.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Zurich

10. 🇬🇧 TUI Fly

• 🏠 Hub: Manchester (MAN), Birmingham (BHX), London Gatwick (LGW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium (extra legroom and perks)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None – pure holiday charter focus
• ☕ Perks: Package deal expertise, family-friendly service, no-fuss operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Instead of booking flights and hotels separately, go for TUI’s full vacation packages. These often include airfare, hotel, transfers, and meals at a lower cost than piecing it together yourself. Booking 3 to 6 months in advance usually unlocks the best prices.

TUI Fly takes the stress out of Azores travel by doing what they do best: bundling flights and hotels into one smooth, no-drama vacation. Their seasonal charters from Manchester and London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada are designed for families, couples, and first-time island travelers who don’t want to sweat the details. You’ll fly on solid Boeing 737s, with crews who know how to keep things relaxed and cheerful, even when the cabin’s full of kids excited for their first dolphin tour.

Economy offers 31 inches of legroom, a clean cabin, and the kind of cheerful service that feels more personal than you’d expect. Premium gives you more breathing room, early boarding, and included meals that help the 4-hour journey pass smoothly. It’s not luxury, but it’s comfortable enough to start your vacation on the right foot. 

TUI isn’t trying to be a loyalty-driven airline, and that’s kind of the point. Their charter model skips the frequent flyer politics in favor of simple, reliable service. You don’t have to think about connections or points. Just pack your bag and show up.

Packages usually run between $800 and $1,200 per person during spring and autumn, covering roundtrip flights and a full week’s stay. That’s great value, especially for families keeping an eye on costs. With flexible payment options and kid-friendly hotels often included, TUI is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to experience the Azores from the UK.

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

Looking for detailed insights on flying to the Azores? Here’s a quick guide with frequently asked questions to help you choose the best flights for your Azorean adventure.

What airlines fly to the Azores Islands?

Several airlines operate flights to the Azores Islands, providing a range of options for travelers. These include SATA Azores Airlines, known for its local expertise, as well as international carriers like Ryanair and Delta Airlines. Each offers broader access from various global locations. For a more luxurious experience, airlines like Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines are excellent choices. Each airline offers unique features, from budget-friendly fares to premium services, catering to different travel preferences.

Which companies fly to the Azores?

Several companies offer flights to the Azores, including TUI Fly, which is known for its leisure-focused services and budget-friendly options. Along with TUI Fly, travelers can choose from a variety of airlines like SATA Azores Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Airlines, and Lufthansa, each providing unique travel experiences and covering different routes to these scenic islands.

What is the best way to get to the Azores?

The best way to get to the Azores is by air, with various airlines offering routes to this beautiful archipelago. Best airlines to travel to the Azores include SATA Azores Airlines for local expertise, and international carriers like Delta Airlines for wider access. Other reputable options are Ryanair, known for budget-friendly fares, and Lufthansa or Swiss International Airlines for a more luxurious experience. Each airline provides different features, ensuring travelers can find a flight that suits their preferences and needs.

Why are Azores flights expensive?

Azores flights can be expensive due to several factors. The islands’ remote location in the Atlantic Ocean means longer flight routes, often requiring specialized aircraft and increased fuel consumption. Additionally, limited airport capacity and fewer competing airlines can lead to higher prices. However, the best flight to the Azores options can be found with careful planning and flexible travel dates, helping to manage costs while still enjoying the unique beauty of the Azores.

What is the cheapest month to go to the Azores?

The cheapest month to travel to the Azores typically falls in the off-peak travel season. Best airlines from the US to the Azores often offer more affordable rates during the late fall and winter months. Note: this excludes the holiday season. Travelers can find better deals during these times due to lower demand compared to the peak summer months. However, it’s always advisable to check with airlines for specific deals and offers. Afterall – prices can vary based on many factors.

Is the Azores cheaper than Portugal?

The cost comparison between the Azores and mainland Portugal varies. Generally, the Azores can be slightly more expensive due to their remote location, affecting the cost of goods and services. However, Best flight to the Azores deals can offset travel expenses.

Accommodation and dining in the Azores might be comparably priced or slightly higher than in mainland Portugal, depending on the location and season. It’s important to consider these factors when budgeting for a trip to the Azores.

Which is more beautiful Madeira or Azores?

Choosing between the beauty of Madeira and the Azores largely depends on personal preference. Madeira, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant flowers, offers a more developed tourist infrastructure.

The Azores, on the other hand, are celebrated for their rugged, natural beauty and volcanic terrain. Both destinations offer unique experiences: Madeira for its charming gardens and hiking trails, and the Azores for its stunning coastal views and geothermal wonders. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the type of scenery and activities you prefer.

Final Thoughts on the Azores’s Best Airlines

Embarking on a journey to the Azores is an adventure like no other. And choosing the right airline is a crucial part of this experience. From SATA Azores Airlines’ local charm to Ryanair’s budget-friendly options, and Delta Airlines’ global reach, each airline offers a unique gateway to these enchanting islands.

Whether seeking luxury with Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines or exploring leisure travel with TUI Fly, the options cater to every traveler’s needs. Your journey to the Azores should be as remarkable as the destination itself. The islands await with their unparalleled natural beauty. And with the best airlines from the US to the Azores, your trip is sure to be unforgettable. Remember, the right airline can elevate your Azorean adventure, making it a journey of a lifetime.