Aerial view of Mackinac Island Airport MCD with a small private plane landing, surrounded by Lake Huron, forest, and proximity to The Inn at Stonecliffe in spring

How to Fly to Mackinac Island: Your Complete 2026 Guide to MCD Airport and Air Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Mackinac Island in 2026? Flying into Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) is the fastest, most scenic way to reach this car-free destination. Whether you're arriving by private charter, air taxi, or connecting from Pellston or St. Ignace, this complete guide breaks down everything you need to know about MCD, how to fly there, and why The Inn at Stonecliffe is your ideal landing place once you touch down.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview: Does Mackinac Island Have an Airport?

  2. What Is MCD Airport? Location, Size, and Runway Details

  3. How to Fly to Mackinac Island in 2026

  4. Best Cities to Fly from to Reach MCD

  5. Charter Flights vs Commercial Flights: What's Available?

  6. Nearby Airports If MCD Isn’t an Option

  7. How to Get from MCD to Downtown Mackinac Island

  8. What to Expect Upon Arrival at MCD Airport

  9. Why Book a Flight Instead of Taking the Ferry?

  10. Air Travel Tips for Visiting Mackinac Island

  11. Where to Stay: The Inn at Stonecliffe – Fly In, Check In, Relax

  12. FAQ: Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) Questions Answered

  13. Final Thoughts: Elevate Your 2026 Mackinac Adventure

Overview: Does Mackinac Island Have an Airport?

Yes, Mackinac Island has its own airport: Mackinac Island Airport (IATA: MCD). Nestled near the west bluff of the island, just 2 miles from downtown, it offers direct access to this iconic destination via air taxi, charter, or private aircraft.

Key facts:

  • Public Use Airport (Owned by Michigan DOT)

  • Open Year-Round, though most travelers fly in during the May–October season

  • No commercial airline service – only private, charter, and air taxi flights

  • Closest lodging option: The Inn at Stonecliffe, located just west of the airport

What Is MCD Airport? Location, Size, and Runway Details

Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) is a small, public-use airport serving private pilots and passengers arriving by charter flights.

Key Specifications:

Feature Details
IATA Code MCD
Elevation 739 feet (225 m)
Runway 3,501 feet x 75 feet (Asphalt)
Lighting Non-lighted runway
Facilities Small terminal, no tower, limited services
Parking Aircraft tie-downs only (no hangars or fueling)

Location Coordinates:
Latitude: 45.8642° N
Longitude: 84.6374° W

How to Fly to Mackinac Island in 2026

Flying to Mackinac Island typically requires one of three methods:

1. Private Plane

Pilots can fly directly into MCD and land on the single 3,500-ft runway.
Tie-down space is available on a first-come basis.

2. Charter Flight

Most visitors use a charter air service from cities like Pellston (PLN), St. Ignace, or Traverse City.
Flight time: 5–25 minutes depending on origin.
Charter services offer flexibility and stunning aerial views.

3. Air Taxi / Scheduled Charter

Air taxi services (e.g., Fresh Air Aviation, Great Lakes Air) operate like on-demand flights.
Prices range from $50–$200 per person, depending on route and aircraft.

Best Cities to Fly from to Reach MCD

Departure City Approx. Air Time Notes
St. Ignace (KMCD) 7 min Shortest hop via Great Lakes Air
Pellston (PLN) 12 min Best connection from Detroit
Charlevoix 25 min Scenic route over Lake Michigan
Chicago (Midway/Exec) 1.5–2 hrs Popular for private jets
Detroit (DTW or Exec) 1 hr High-end charters available
Traverse City 30 min Charter or private flight

Charter Flights vs Commercial Flights: What's Available?

There are no commercial airlines flying directly to Mackinac Island.

Flight Type Available at MCD Notes
Commercial Airlines ❌ Not supported
Charter Flights ✅ Book from regional airports
Private Jets ✅ Must meet runway length limits
Helicopters ✅ Allowed with prior notice

Nearby Airports If MCD Isn’t an Option

If weather or availability prevents landing at MCD, consider flying into a nearby airport and taking a ferry or air taxi.

Airport Code Distance to Mackinac
Pellston Regional PLN 20 min flight + ferry
Cheboygan SLH 15 min flight
St. Ignace ISQ 7 min flight or direct ferry
Mackinac County 83D 10 min flight

How to Get from MCD to Downtown Mackinac Island

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so transportation from the airport is by:

  • Horse-drawn taxi – Available by calling ahead or arranging via lodging

  • Bicycle rentals – Available near the terminal

  • Walking – Approx. 25–30 minutes to downtown

  • Private transfer – Included with some hotel packages (like The Inn at Stonecliffe)

What to Expect Upon Arrival at MCD Airport

Upon Landing:

  • A small, quiet terminal with restrooms and basic amenities

  • No baggage claim – luggage is hand-carried off your aircraft

  • No food or drink service – pack essentials or head straight to town

  • No rental cars – plan alternate transport in advance

Why Book a Flight Instead of Taking the Ferry?

Comparison Ferry Flight
Travel Time 1–2 hrs (with transfers) 5–30 mins
Availability Seasonal Year-round (weather permitting)
Cost $30–50 roundtrip $50–200 per person
Scenery Lake level Aerial views of the island
Experience Traditional Luxury/Expedited
Ideal For First-time visitors Business travelers, repeat visitors, special occasions

Flying is ideal for:

  • High-level executive travel

  • Wedding groups

  • Romantic getaways

  • Families with children

  • Short weekend trips

Air Travel Tips for Visiting Mackinac Island

Booking Your Flight:

  • Book at least 30 days in advance during peak season (June–August)

  • Call Fresh Air Aviation, Great Lakes Air, or local charter companies directly

  • Request roundtrip quotes to simplify your itinerary

Luggage Restrictions:

  • Smaller aircraft may limit bags to 25–40 lbs per person

  • Soft-sided luggage is preferred

Timing Tips:

  • Mornings have the best flying conditions on Lake Huron

  • Avoid scheduling flights close to dusk (MCD has no runway lighting)

Emergency Backup Plan:

  • Always have ferry access as a weather contingency

  • Stay updated via Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau and the National Weather Service

Where to Stay: The Inn at Stonecliffe – Fly In, Check In, Relax

Once you arrive on the island, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers the most serene and sophisticated stay just minutes from MCD.

Why It’s the Best Lodging Near the Airport:

  • Closest upscale hotel to MCD Airport

  • Nestled on the West Bluff, steps from the runway

  • Offers gorgeous views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge

  • Completely renovated in 2024 – modern meets historic charm

  • No need to go downtown to check-in – avoid crowds

Amenities Perfect for Fly-In Guests:

  • Complimentary porter service for luggage from the airport

  • Private transfers available by advance request

  • Curated experiences for fly-in weddings, retreats, and honeymoons

  • Full-service dining, bar, and lawn overlooking the Straits

FAQ: Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) Questions Answered

Is there an airport on Mackinac Island?
Yes. Mackinac Island Airport (MCD) is a public-use airport located 2 miles west of downtown.

What airlines fly to Mackinac Island?
None. Only private, air taxi, or charter flights are available.

Can I fly from Detroit or Chicago?
Yes. Book a private or semi-private charter. Travel time is around 1–2 hours.

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Options include horse-drawn taxi, walking, or complimentary transfers from participating hotels like The Inn at Stonecliffe.

Is the airport open all year?
Technically yes, but most travelers use it from May to October. Winter travel is weather-dependent and extremely limited.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your 2026 Mackinac Adventure

Flying to Mackinac Island via MCD Airport in 2026 is an unforgettable way to begin your island escape. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, attending the Mackinac Policy Conference, or celebrating a milestone, air travel offers convenience, luxury, and jaw-dropping views.

Pair your arrival with a stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe, the island’s most private and picturesque resort, just steps from the airport. With modern rooms, fine dining, and sweeping views from the bluff, it’s the perfect home base after your flight.

Ready to Plan Your Flight to Mackinac Island?

Book your stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe and inquire about preferred air travel partners. Fly in, check in, and discover why sky-to-stone luxury begins at MCD.

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