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Top 10 Most Popular States for Air Travel in 2026
Curious about which states are the most sought-after flight destinations in 2026? Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply exploring travel trends, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 states that attract the most air traffic. These destinations are bustling with activity and offer plenty of attractions for travelers.
The Top 10 States
These ten states are among the most popular for travelers, boasting diverse attractions ranging from stunning beaches and vibrant cities to national parks. With increased flight availability and competitive pricing, your next adventure could be just a booking away!
How We Determined the Rankings
Our rankings are based on data collected from Champion Traveler, which analyzed the number of flights to each state over the past 12 months. We focused solely on the number of flights arriving at each state to identify the most visited locations by air travelers.
1. California
Flights to: 740,782
California continues to be the top destination, attracting visitors with its iconic beaches, theme parks like Disneyland, and cultural hubs like Los Angeles. Over the past year, the state recorded an impressive 740,782 flights.
2. Texas
Flights to: 565,292
With its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Texas ranks second with 565,292 flights, ensuring a steady influx of visitors eager to experience its unique attractions.
3. Florida
Flights to: 452,180
Known for its warm climate and family-friendly attractions like Disney World, Florida remains a favorite, with 452,180 flights recorded in the past year.
4. Georgia
Flights to: 391,889
Georgia, with its southern hospitality and delicious cuisine, ranks fourth with 391,889 flights, showcasing its appeal to tourists.
5. Illinois
Flights to: 352,071
Home to Chicago, Illinois offers a vibrant urban experience and ranks fifth with 352,071 flights per year.
6. New York
Flights to: 246,409
New York, the city that never sleeps, attracts 246,409 flights yearly, making it a must-visit destination for many travelers.
7. Colorado
Flights to: 245,548
Colorado’s stunning mountain landscapes and outdoor activities draw in 245,548 flights annually, solidifying its place as a top destination.
8. Arizona
Flights to: 176,531
With its unique desert landscapes, Arizona sees 176,531 flights, appealing to those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
9. Nevada
Flights to: 167,198
Nevada, especially Las Vegas, remains a popular party destination, with 167,198 flights in the last year.
10. North Carolina
Flights to: 162,329
North Carolina wraps up our list with 162,329 flights, offering a mix of beautiful coastlines and mountains.
Conclusion: The Future of Air Travel
As air travel continues to evolve, many are eager to return to the skies, especially with improved safety protocols and travel experiences. If you’re considering your next getaway, these popular states are sure to provide memorable experiences and attractions. With the travel landscape adapting to modern needs, now is a great time to explore these destinations!
| Rank | State | Flights To |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | 740,782 |
| 2 | Texas | 565,292 |
| 3 | Florida | 452,180 |
| 4 | Georgia | 391,889 |
| 5 | Illinois | 352,071 |
| 6 | New York | 246,409 |
| 7 | Colorado | 245,548 |
| 8 | Arizona | 176,531 |
| 9 | Nevada | 167,198 |
| 10 | North Carolina | 162,329 |
| 11 | Michigan | 155,896 |
| 12 | Washington | 148,410 |
| 13 | Minnesota | 138,461 |
| 14 | Massachusetts | 125,110 |
| 15 | New Jersey | 122,974 |
| 16 | Utah | 114,239 |
| 17 | Pennsylvania | 110,556 |
| 18 | Missouri | 104,404 |
| 19 | Hawaii | 102,602 |
| 20 | Maryland | 99,031 |
| 21 | Ohio | 85,730 |
| 22 | Tennessee | 81,729 |
| 23 | Oregon | 71,099 |
| 24 | Louisiana | 67,165 |
| 25 | Wisconsin | 51,257 |
| 26 | Indiana | 39,282 |
| 27 | Alaska | 35,897 |
| 28 | Virginia | 32,205 |
| 29 | South Carolina | 30,263 |
| 30 | Oklahoma | 30,020 |
| 31 | Alabama | 23,843 |
| 32 | Nebraska | 22,990 |
| 33 | Connecticut | 21,501 |
| 34 | Idaho | 21,500 |
| 35 | New Mexico | 21,399 |
| 36 | Montana | 17,004 |
| 37 | Kentucky | 16,178 |
| 38 | Arkansas | 14,974 |
| 39 | Rhode Island | 13,151 |
| 40 | Iowa | 12,817 |
| 41 | North Dakota | 10,726 |
| 42 | Mississippi | 10,068 |
| 43 | Kansas | 9,703 |
| 44 | South Dakota | 8,052 |
| 45 | Wyoming | 7,917 |
| 46 | Maine | 7,299 |
| 47 | New Hampshire | 6,364 |
| 48 | Vermont | 3,708 |
| 49 | West Virginia | 2,387 |
Author
Amanda Postma is a writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog with a focus on creating entertaining content to help you through your job search. She received her BA from the University Of Missouri-Columbia.
