Still the Cheapest US Airport for Air Fare: Las Vegas Harry Reid (LAS)

I love being a private tour guide in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world! And I am always eager to share some about our very own Harry Reid Airport (LAS). Not only is it a convenient gateway to all the wonders of this vibrant city, but it’s also the cheapest airport to travel to in the entire United States. Yes, you heard it right!

According to Financebuzz.com, an online Personal Finance website, our local airport boasts the lowest airfare costs in the country, with an average ticket price of just $264.24. And here’s the cherry on top: this remarkable feat has been achieved six out of the last seven years! So if you’re looking for affordability without compromising on your travel experience, LAS is the place to be.

You can see the entire article here, but here are the main points for us:

The Least Expensive Airports in the United States

1. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Average airfare cost: $264.24
2. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) – Average airfare cost: $271.78
3. Orlando International Airport (MCO) – Average airfare cost: $273.35
4. Oakland International Airport (OAK) – Average airfare cost: $288.23
5. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) – Average airfare cost: $303.05

Not too bad! For context, let’s compare this with the list of the most expensive US airports:

The Most Expensive Airports in the United States

1. Dulles International Airport (IAD) – Average airfare cost: $494.78
2. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Average airfare cost: $456.86
3. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – Average airfare cost: $444.42 4 (tie). Portland International Airport (PDX) – Average airfare cost: $425.35 4 (tie). Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) – Average airfare cost: $425.35

You might be wondering, what’s the secret behind Harry Reid’s affordability? Some have speculated that Las Vegas casinos might be subsidizing the rates? No.

Or that the government is intentionally keeping the prices low to attract budget-conscious travelers. Nah. The truth is quite different.

If you explore Harry Reid Airport, you’ll notice these machines with flashy lights. Yes, you guessed it right! There are around 1,400 slot machines within the airport premises. Michael Gaughan, the owner of the South Point Hotel and Casino, has been running the gaming franchise at the airport for decades. It is reported that the airport receives a whopping $3 million per month as their share of the gaming revenue. Thank you, travelers!

While the airport is owned by the Clark County Commission and operated by the Clark County Department of Aviation, the gaming receipts play a significant role in covering a variety of expenses like security and luggage handling. This $3 million is a substantial contribution that the Commission doesn’t need to bill, and airlines don’t have to pay. Consequently, airlines can charge less for flights to and from Las Vegas and still maintain a healthy profit margin.

So, when you’re on your way back home, make sure to stop by your favorite slot machine at Harry Reid Airport. Slip in a $20 bill and make a last donation, ensuring a cheap plane ticket to Las Vegas on your next trip. It’s a win-win situation for everyone! And who knows? Maybe you’ll hit the big one!

RICHARD LLOYD EVANS

I am a former paratrooper, history teacher, and now a travel author and private guide in the greater Las Vegas area. I offer walking tours, day tours, private tours and custom tours for those looking for a special experience in my iconic city.