Getting to Fayetteville is pretty straightforward. Located in the northwest corner of Arkansas along Interstate 49, the city is easy to reach by car or plane and serves as a convenient starting point for exploring Northwest Arkansas. Most visitors arrive through Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), located about 24 miles north of downtown, while others travel by car via Interstate 49.
Flying to Fayetteville, Arkansas (XNA Airport)
What Is the Closest Airport to Fayetteville, Arkansas?
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) is the closest commercial airport to Fayetteville, Arkansas. Located approximately 24 miles north of downtown Fayetteville, XNA serves travelers visiting Fayetteville, surrounding areas, and the University of Arkansas.
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)
Most visitors arriving by air fly into Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), located about 24 miles north of Fayetteville.
The drive from XNA to Fayetteville typically takes around 30 minutes and follows Interstate 49 directly into the city. Rental cars, rideshare services, and other ground transportation options are available at the airport, making it easy to get where you're going once you land.
XNA offers nonstop service to over 25 destinations across the country, making Fayetteville accessible from major metropolitan areas throughout the United States.
University of Arkansas Visitors
Visitors traveling to the University of Arkansas typically fly into Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), located approximately 24 miles from campus. Rental cars, rideshare services, and shuttle options make it easy to reach the university and surrounding Fayetteville attractions.
What Airlines Fly to Fayetteville, Arkansas?
Northwest Arkansas National Airport offers service from several major carriers, providing nonstop access to destinations across the United States.
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Allegiant Air
- Breeze Airways
- Frontier Airlines
Fayetteville Executive Airport at Drake Field
Fayetteville is also home to Fayetteville Executive Airport at Drake Field, located on the south side of town. The airport serves private and corporate aviation and is just a few minutes from downtown Fayetteville and the University of Arkansas.
Airports Near Fayetteville, Arkansas
| Airport | Distance from Fayetteville |
| Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) | 24 miles |
| Fayetteville Executive Airport at Drake Field | In Fayetteville |
| Tulsa International Airport | 118 miles |
| Springfield-Branson National Airport | 113 miles |
Driving to Fayetteville, Arkansas
Fayetteville sits along Interstate 49, one of the region's major north-south corridors. Several exits provide easy access to different parts of the city:
Interstate 49 Exits in Fayetteville
Exit 67 – Fayetteville Business District, College Avenue, Northwest Arkansas Mall, and Washington Regional Medical Center
Exit 66 – Highway 112 and west Fayetteville
Exit 64 – Lake Wedington area
Exit 62 – University of Arkansas, Downtown Fayetteville, Dickson Street, the Fayetteville Visitors Center, and the Clinton House Museum
Exit 60 – Mount Kessler, Centennial Park, and south Fayetteville
Once you're in town, most hotels, restaurants, attractions, and trail access points are only a short drive away.
Driving to Fayetteville from Nearby Cities
Fayetteville is centrally located within Northwest Arkansas and is easily accessible from nearby cities and regional destinations. Visitors traveling from surrounding areas can reach Fayetteville using major highways and Interstate 49.
Driving Distances to Fayetteville
Planning a road trip? Fayetteville is within driving distance of many cities throughout the South and Midwest.
|
City |
Distance to Fayetteville |
|
Fort Smith, AR |
64 miles |
|
Springfield, MO |
113 miles |
|
Tulsa, OK |
118 miles |
|
Hot Springs, AR |
190 miles |
|
Little Rock, AR |
203 miles |
|
Oklahoma City, OK |
225 miles |
|
Kansas City, MO |
268 miles |
|
Wichita, KS |
314 miles |
|
Shreveport, LA |
317 miles |
|
St. Louis, MO |
329 miles |
|
Memphis, TN |
336 miles |
|
Dallas, TX |
398 miles |
|
Jackson, MS |
546 miles |
|
Louisville, KY |
598 miles |
|
Chicago, IL |
632 miles |
|
New Orleans, LA |
732 miles |
Discover your new Favoriteville
There’s a reason locals call it our Favoriteville. Tucked into the Ozark Mountains, our city hums with live music, local art, independent eateries, and trails that lead to unexpected views.
Fayetteville is shaped by the people who call it home: artists and educators, makers and musicians, college students, entrepreneurs, and neighbors who still stop to say hello.
Wander a little. Stay a little longer. You’ll leave with stories and maybe a new favorite spot of your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest airport to Fayetteville, Arkansas?
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) is the closest commercial airport and is located about 24 miles north of Fayetteville.
How far is Fayetteville from XNA Airport?
Fayetteville is approximately 24 miles from XNA, and the drive typically takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive, explore our Places to Stay, Things to Do, and Downtown Fayetteville guides.
What interstate runs through Fayetteville?
Interstate 49 runs through Fayetteville and connects the city to destinations throughout Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and beyond. It provides easy access to some of the best outdoor recreation destinations from Fayetteville.
Can I fly a private aircraft into Fayetteville?
Yes. Fayetteville Executive Airport at Drake Field serves private and corporate aviation and is located just minutes from downtown. Browse nearby luxury accommodations, elevated happy hours, and meals to remember and start planning your stay.
