Are Flight Prices Higher on Weekends or Weekdays to the USA?

📊 Are Flight Prices Higher on Weekends or Weekdays to the USA?

If you’re planning a trip to the United States, knowing which days are cheaper to fly can help you save significantly. Airlines adjust prices based on demand, and weekdays and weekends can show notable differences in airfare.


✈️ Weekday vs. Weekend Airfare Patterns

  • Tuesday & Wednesday: Historically, these mid-week days often offer the lowest fares for international and domestic U.S. flights. Less business travel and lower demand contribute to reduced prices.
  • Thursday & Friday: Prices start to rise as business and leisure travelers book weekend departures.
  • Saturday & Sunday: Weekend flights are typically the most expensive, especially on Sundays for return flights, due to higher leisure travel demand.

💡 Tips to Save on Flight Prices

  • Use flexible date search tools on Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare weekday vs. weekend pricing.
  • Book flights on mid-week days whenever possible to reduce costs.
  • Consider overnight or red-eye flights, which are often cheaper than daytime departures.
  • Sign up for airline newsletters and price alerts for last-minute discounts.
  • Check alternative nearby airports for potential savings.

💸 Sample Price Differences by Day of the Week

Route Tuesday/Wednesday Fare Saturday/Sunday Fare
London (LHR) → New York (JFK) $450–$550 $550–$700
Paris (CDG) → Los Angeles (LAX) $480–$600 $600–$750
Tokyo (NRT) → Chicago (ORD) $600–$750 $750–$950
Johannesburg (JNB) → Miami (MIA) $700–$900 $900–$1,100

📍 Final Takeaway

Flight prices to the USA are generally lower mid-week (Tuesday–Wednesday) and highest on weekends (Saturday–Sunday). Planning your departure and return dates strategically can save you hundreds of dollars, especially on long-haul international flights.