We’ve flown on Delta, American and Copa on our six trips to Casa Vieja Lodge, and over the past few years we’ve tracked the different ways U.S. anglers can get to the greatest sailfish spot on earth.
Fortunately, the options for getting to Guatemala’s La Aurora International Airport (GUA) keep on growing. That’s a good thing, because in this age of air travel, direct flights are increasingly valuable – they don’t eliminate the chance of flight problems but they substantially reduce it.
More competition can also put downward pressure on fares, although there are no guarantees. With airfare costs adding up quickly, another airline on a route is always worth watching. And the arrival of a low-cost carrier can create additional opportunities for anglers willing to be flexible with their travel dates and baggage needs.
Here are some newer nonstop options to consider.
Houston (IAH)–Guatemala City: Frontier launched nonstop service on December 18, 2025, with three flights per week. It was a new route for Frontier, not for Houston: United already operates nonstop service from its Texas hub. The added competition gives Houston-area anglers another airline to check when comparing fares.
Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)–Guatemala City: Frontier also announced weekly nonstop service from DFW, beginning December 20, 2025. That gives North Texas anglers another option alongside American Airlines’ established nonstop service. The catch? Frontier initially scheduled this as limited seasonal service, so check the dates carefully before building your trip around it.
Orlando (MCO)–Guatemala City: Central Florida anglers have another option, too, without having to drive to Miami or Fort Lauderdale for a nonstop flight. Frontier announced service beginning December 21, 2025. Although the route was initially scheduled as limited service, it may be worth checking if you live in the Orlando area and have some flexibility with your travel dates.
San Francisco (SFO)–Guatemala City: Avianca added a seasonal nonstop option from the West Coast, operating four times per week from June 1 through August 31, 2026. That service has ended for now, and its summer schedule may not line up with the best dates for your fishing trip. Still, it was a useful addition for West Coast travelers and one to watch for future seasons.
Flight schedules change, especially on newer routes. Before booking your lodge, compare the airlines’ current schedules, fares, baggage fees and arrival times. A cheap ticket isn't necessarily a bargain if it requires an extra hotel night or makes it difficult to reach your fishing destination on time.
Luggage Considerations
A seemingly low-cost fare can quickly become more expensive if you’re not careful about the airlines’ additional fees. Make sure that when you compare these options to other carriers that you factor in any additional costs associated with your ticket class.
Fortunately you don’t need to bring any gear to Casa Vieja and they do your laundry every day, so packing is a breeze. Nevertheless, if you intend to bring bulky luggage – or even just a carry-on – be sure to check the Frontier and Avianca baggage policies:
Ready to put those flight options to use?
If chasing sailfish in Central America's Pacific waters is on your bucket list, check out our Guatemala fishing trip coverage and see what a trip involves. And if you'd rather have the details handled for you, take a look at our upcoming hosted fishing trips with Half Past First Cast.
We'll help you spend less time figuring out the logistics and more time thinking about that next fish.
Explore new nonstop flights from the U.S. to Guatemala City, including Frontier routes from Houston, Dallas and Orlando and Avianca's seasonal service.