The closest airport to Destin, FL, is Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), located approximately 16 miles away. However, it is a small airport. The nearest international airport to Destin, Florida, is Pensacola International Airport (PNS), approximately 52 miles away.
The 4 closest airports to Destin, FL
You click the name of these airports to find flights to these airports.
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) ~ 16 miles away. It’s the nearest major airport to Destin, FL, but it’s small airport.
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) ~ 52 miles away. It’s the closest international airport to Port Destin, Florida.
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) ~ 52 miles away.
- Destin Executive Airport (DTS) ~ 0 miles away. Located within city limits, but it’s private airport.
1. Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)
Distance to Destin: Approximately 17 miles (25–30 minutes)
Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is the nearest major commercial airport to Destin. Located on Eglin Air Force Base, VPS offers convenient access to the Emerald Coast and is served by major airlines including American, Delta, Southwest, and United.
Best for: Most travelers looking for the closest and most accessible commercial airport to Destin.
Pros:
- Closest commercial airport to Destin
- Direct flights from major U.S. cities such as Dallas, Atlanta, and Chicago
- Served by major airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest, and United
- Ideal for travelers wanting quick access to Destin and surrounding areas
- Onsite car rentals and ride-share options available
Cons: Smaller airport with limited gates
Car Rental Options: Onsite agencies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National
Contact Details:
- Address: 1701 State Road 85 N, Eglin AFB, FL 32542
- Website: flyvps.com
- Phone: +1 850-651-7160
2. Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
Pensacola International Airport is a regional airport with a wide range of flights and carriers. It serves the greater Gulf Coast area and can be a good alternative for those who don’t mind a scenic drive to Destin.
Key Features:
- Flights from cities like Washington D.C., Denver, and Miami
- Airlines include American, Delta, Southwest, Frontier, and United
- Rental cars and shuttles available for the 1.5-hour drive to Destin
Distance to Destin: Approximately 52 miles west (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
Pros:
- Larger airport with more flight options
- Serves both domestic and limited international flights
Cons: Longer drive to Destin
Car Rental Options: Onsite agencies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty
Contact Details:
- Address: 2430 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504
- Website: flypensacola.com
- Phone: +1 850-436-5000
3. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
Distance to Destin: Approximately 52 miles east (about 1 hour)
ECP is another good option for visitors to Destin, especially if you’re staying on the eastern side of the Emerald Coast. The airport is modern and easy to navigate, with service from several major airlines.
Best for: Travelers staying in eastern Destin or areas like Santa Rosa Beach and Panama City.
Pros:
- Direct flights from cities such as Nashville, Houston, and Austin
- Airlines include Delta, Southwest, American, and United
- Approximately 1.25-hour drive to Destin
- Often less crowded than larger airports
Cons: Farther from Destin compared to VPS
Car Rental Options: Onsite agencies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty
Contact Details:
- Address: 6300 West Bay Parkway, Panama City, FL 32409
- Website: iflybeaches.com
- Phone: +1 850-763-0108
4. Destin Executive Airport (DTS)
Distance to Destin: Located within Destin city limits
Pros:
- Closest airport to Destin
- Ideal for private and charter flights
Cons: No commercial airline service
Car Rental Options: Available through local agencies and FBO services
Contact Details:
- Address: 1001 Airport Rd, Destin, FL 32541
- Website: flydts.com
- Phone: +1 850-651-7160
Summary
- Best Overall Choice: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) for its proximity and convenience.
- Alternative Options: Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) and Pensacola International Airport (PNS) offer more flight options but require longer drives.
- Private Flights: Destin Executive Airport (DTS) is suitable for private or chartered flights.