Wichita’s Airport Ranks Among Region’s Most Affordable, Beating Out Kansas City and Tulsa
WICHITA, Kan. — A new government report has revealed that Wichita Eisenhower National Airport continues to offer lower average airfare compared to other major airports in the region, including Kansas City, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
According to the first quarter report from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), the average ticket cost from Wichita’s airport in early 2025 was $456.25. That number, though slightly higher than last year by 2%, still undercuts surrounding airports.
Nearby Options Come at a Higher Cost
While airfare at ICT (Wichita’s airport code) has slightly increased year over year, airport officials say it remains a better value for most travelers in the region.
“When you fly out of Kansas City, Oklahoma City, or Tulsa, you pay more than just the ticket,” stated a release from Wichita Eisenhower National Airport.
“Consider the cost of gas, tolls, overnight parking, and hotel stays—not to mention the time lost driving, navigating unfamiliar terminals, and standing in longer security lines. By the time you’re boarding, any savings you thought you had are gone.”
Wichita Outperforms in Regional Rankings
The national average airfare for regional airports in Q1 2025 was $397.12, according to BTS data. Although Wichita’s $456.25 is above that national benchmark, it still outperformed its direct competitors.
The only regional airports that reported lower average fares than Wichita were:
- Omaha: $448.83
- Colorado Springs: $434.96
These numbers position ICT as third best in the regional affordability ranking, offering significant value to travelers who want both cost and convenience.
Travelers Encouraged to Factor in Total Costs
Airport representatives emphasized that comparing airfare alone doesn’t reflect the total cost of traveling from farther airports. With parking, lodging, and ground transportation expenses often hidden in plain sight, choosing a closer option like Wichita can actually save travelers hundreds over a multi-day trip.
Do you prefer flying out of Wichita or a bigger city? Have you noticed a difference in airfare or travel time?
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