5 Closest Airports to Ann Arbor Michigan – 30 Mins to UMich Campus

We found the closest airports to Ann Arbor Michigan so you can get to the University of Michigan in the quickest fashion possible.

Whether your trip is for work, pleasure, or even a visit to the renowned UMich, the convenience of choosing the right airport is something you really shouldn’t underestimate.

Ann Arbor is, frankly, more than just a college town—it’s actually a dynamic hub of education, culture, and innovation. It typically attracts visitors from all over the globe, and, as a matter of fact, its reputation goes far beyond academia.

Whether you’re a prospective student touring the campus, a researcher attending a conference, or even a loyal Wolverines fan heading to “The Big House” for a football game, the city has an appeal for all of y’all.

Given its regional importance, getting to Ann Arbor conveniently is, of course, a must for many travelers.

Fortunately, the city is within a pretty reasonable driving distance of several major airports that provide easy access for both domestic and international flyers.

In fact, with so many options for airports near Ann Arbor, knowing which one to pick might actually make your journey much smoother, or at least somewhat more enjoyable than you’d expect.

Methodology

So, how did we figure out this ranking of the closest airport to the University of Michigan? Well, it’s not just about the distance to Ann Arbor.

We also looked at the overall experience of using each airport, which tends to include factors like passenger amenities, ease of access, and even traffic patterns on the way to and from these locations.

By taking all these elements into account, and by focusing on Michigan airports near Ann Arbor, we’ve come up with a list that, in many respects, provides both practicality and comfort for travelers.

Anyway, enough talk – let’s see what the closest airport to Ann Arbor Michigan (and the U of M) are along with the other nearby options that might also be worth considering in case you have more direct routes at certain airports.

The 5 Closest Airports to Ann Arbor Michigan

5. Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO)

Distance from Ann Arbor Michigan: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport is one of the quieter michigan airports near Ann Arbor. At about 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car, it’s a bit farther out, but it’s often a manageable drive for those seeking a less crowded airport experience.

This regional airport mostly handles domestic flights, which means it’s not overly busy.

While the amenities here are somewhat limited compared to larger airports, you’ll still find the essentials, like rental cars and a handful of food options.

The drive to Ann Arbor tends to be smooth, although it’s worth checking traffic conditions on I-94 before heading out. All in all, this airport offers a practical choice for travelers who prioritize convenience and simplicity over a wide range of flight options.

4. Lansing Capital Region International Airport (LAN)

Distance from Ann Arbor Michigan: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Lansing Capital Region International Airport is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away, which makes it a solid option for travelers looking for airports near Ann Arbor.

This airport is smaller and less hectic than DTW (our #1 choice), making it a good choice for people who prefer a more laid-back travel experience.

LAN offers a decent selection of domestic flights, along with amenities like free Wi-Fi, parking, and rental car services. The route to Ann Arbor is usually straightforward, although you might encounter slight delays during rush hours.

For anyone flying at odd hours or on regional airlines, this airport could be a convenient choice among Michigan airports near Ann Arbor.

3. Coleman A. Young International Airport (DET)

Distance from Ann Arbor Michigan: 1 hour
Location: Check on Google Maps

Coleman A. Young International Airport (formerly known as Detroit City Airport) is located near the heart of Detroit.

At 1 hour from Ann Arbor, it’s a bit farther out than the other options but still within a reasonable distance. This airport is mostly used for charter and private flights, so it’s not exactly the busiest option out there.

The main draw of Detroit City Airport is its efficiency. If you’re flying privately or on a smaller aircraft, you might find this airport to be incredibly convenient.

The drive to Ann Arbor is, in most cases, smooth, provided you avoid peak traffic times. While it doesn’t offer the wide range of commercial flights found at other airports, it’s worth considering for specific types of travel.

2. Flint Bishop International Airport (FNT)

Distance from Ann Arbor Michigan: 50 minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Next, let’s talk about Flint Bishop International Airport. This airport, which is a bit more relaxed than DTW, is about 50 minutes from Ann Arbor, making it the 2nd closest airport Ann Arbor Michigan travelers can choose from.

For travelers who prefer a quieter experience, this airport could be a great alternative. It’s worth noting that it doesn’t have as many flight options as Detroit Metro, but it still offers plenty of domestic routes that might fit your needs.

One of the best things about this airport is its size. It’s small enough to avoid long security lines, yet large enough to provide basic amenities like food options, free Wi-Fi, and rental car services.

The drive to Ann Arbor, mostly via I-75 S, is pretty simple, though traffic near Flint might, on occasion, slow you down. If you’re looking for a calmer option among the closest airports to Ann Arbor, Flint Bishop could be just the ticket.

1. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Distance from Ann Arbor Michigan: 30 minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is the closest airport to Ann Arbor Michigan, taking only about 30 minutes by car.

This airport, which is arguably the busiest in Michigan, offers a highly convenient choice for both domestic and international flights.

It’s pretty much packed with amenities like a variety of restaurants, shopping outlets, and lounges, making it a great choice for travelers who want comfort before or after their flight.

One thing to keep in mind is the traffic on I-94, which might, at times, add a bit to your travel time. However, the airport’s accessibility to Ann Arbor is still very straightforward.

With rental cars, ride-sharing options, and shuttles easily available, this airport is typically a top pick for those visiting the University of Michigan or other nearby destinations. It’s also worth noting that the airport handles a large number of international flights, making it the nearest international airport to Ann Arbor Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest airport to Ann Arbor Michigan?

The closest airport to Ann Arbor Michigan is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), which is about 30 minutes away by car. It offers the most flight options, both domestic and international.

What is the nearest international airport to Ann Arbor Michigan?

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the nearest international airport to Ann Arbor Michigan, offering a wide range of global destinations.