Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your September journey
September is a shoulder-season month for departures from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), with cooler Michigan weather and moderate travel volumes after Labor Day. Flights to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) are often competitively priced in September—use flexible dates to find cheaper midweek fares. Key tips: book 3–6 weeks in advance for the best September deals, consider early-morning nonstops to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, and compare fares across carriers. Popular nearby destinations served via DTW include Ann Arbor, Windsor, Grand Rapids, and Lansing; travelers bound for Phoenix often continue to Scottsdale, Sedona, Flagstaff, and Tucson. Ready to book your September flight from Detroit? Search fares now and set price alerts for DTW to PHX to capture the best deals.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) offers a variety of long-term and short-term parking options including hourly garage parking, daily surface lots, and economy lots with shuttle service. In September, demand is moderate after Labor Day, so you can often find economy lot spaces at lower rates; however, covered garage spaces near the terminal are limited during peak morning departures. For the best value, reserve parking online in advance to secure a spot and compare rates across DTW official parking and third-party lots.
For domestic flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in September, plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure for carry-on only and 2 hours if you have checked baggage or travel during peak times like early morning or Labor Day weekend. September often has lighter holiday crowds than summer, but mornings and late afternoons remain busy; allow extra time for security (TSA PreCheck lanes may be faster). Check your airline's recommended check-in time and monitor real-time wait times via DTW's official app.
Delta Air Lines typically operates nonstop flights between Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) year-round, with one or more daily frequencies that can increase during demand spikes in September. Occasionally seasonal or schedule changes may add service from other carriers; always check airline schedules for the month of September for the most up-to-date nonstop flights. Use fare comparison tools and the airlines’ official sites to find current nonstop availability and book early for the best fares.
September in Detroit typically brings mild temperatures and lower thunderstorm risk than summer, but occasional early-fall storms or fog can cause localized delays at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Compared with winter months, September has fewer weather-related cancellations, but still allow buffer time for connections and check flight status before heading to the airport. For travel insurance or flexible ticket options, consider fare rules that allow date changes if forecasts show disruptive weather.
Ground transportation from downtown Detroit to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) includes rideshare services (Uber/Lyft), taxis, rental cars, airport shuttles, and limited public transit links; Ride the SMART bus or regional shuttle services for budget options. In September, traffic volumes are moderate, so allow 30–45 minutes from downtown depending on time of day and special events like Detroit Jazz Festival on Labor Day weekend. Reserve shuttles or rideshares ahead of time if you have tight connection windows.
Yes, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) generally has a strong selection of lounges and dining options open in September, including airline-branded lounges, independent lounges, and a wide mix of restaurants near the gates. Many lounges require membership or day-pass access; dining hours can vary, so check the DTW dining and lounge directory for exact opening times on your travel day. Early morning and late-night flights may have reduced restaurant hours, so pack snacks if you have a very early departure.
September arrivals to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) benefit from lower winter-season crowds and continued sunshine, though daytime heat and monsoon remnants are possible. Whether you’re flying from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) for a city break in Scottsdale, a road trip to Sedona, or business in downtown Phoenix, plan ground transport in advance and hydrate on arrival. Popular nearby destinations reachable from PHX include Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Flagstaff, Sedona, and Tucson. For the best travel experience, book your rental car or shuttle ahead and check PHX Sky Train connections to hotels and the Valley Metro light rail.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offers multiple ground-transportation options including Valley Metro light rail connections (via a short shuttle), rideshare pickup zones, taxis, rental cars, and shared shuttles. In September, demand is moderate as summer tourism tapers; rideshare and rental car lines can still be busy during late afternoons, so consider pre-booking or using off-peak pickup times. For fast transit to downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale, look for PHX-approved shuttle services and the PHX Sky Train to the light rail connection.
September in Phoenix is still warm but cooling from peak summer highs; average daytime temperatures at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) commonly range from the mid-80s to mid-90s °F (29–35 °C), with occasional monsoon thunderstorms early in the month. Travelers should plan for hot days and bring sunscreen, lightweight clothing, and a refillable water bottle; evenings cool down more comfortably, ideal for exploring Scottsdale or downtown Phoenix. Check short-term forecasts before arrival for any monsoon-related travel advisories.
To travel from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Sedona or Flagstaff in September, consider renting a car for the 2–3 hour scenic drive north via I-17 and State Route 179, or book a shared shuttle or private transfer for stress-free transit. Fall shoulder season in September often brings lighter traffic than summer, but watch for afternoon monsoon storms that can slow highway travel. If you prefer public transit, combine light rail and regional bus services, though travel times will be significantly longer than driving.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) has nearby airport hotels connected by the PHX Sky Train and several luggage storage or bell-desk options available through hotels and independent services in the rental-car center area. In September, hotels around Sky Harbor often offer lower rates than winter high season, making same-day check-in or early luggage drop feasible. For convenience, book hotels linked to Sky Train and confirm luggage storage availability in advance, especially during sports events or Arizona State University football weekends.
As of September, most routine COVID-19 travel restrictions have been lifted for domestic travel to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), but health guidelines can change—check the CDC and local Arizona Department of Health Services for the latest advisories before flying. International travelers or those with special health needs should verify airline requirements, mask policies, and any testing recommendations; airports may still provide sanitization stations and signage on best practices. Consider travel insurance that covers health disruptions and confirm vaccination or testing rules if your itinerary includes international segments.
September hosts several noteworthy events that can influence DTW–PHX travel. Near Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), the Detroit Jazz Festival typically takes place over Labor Day weekend and draws large crowds to downtown, increasing demand for flights and hotels. Near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), early fall brings college football season (Arizona State University in Tempe), cultural festivals, and neighborhood celebrations in Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix. If your September trip coincides with these events, book flights and accommodations early, or consider off-peak dates for lower prices.
For DTW to PHX travel in September, the best time to fly for cheaper fares and smoother operations is midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) with early-morning departures. Early flights are less likely to be impacted by cascading delays from earlier sectors and late-day thunderstorms, especially in Phoenix. If your schedule allows, avoid peak holiday weekends (Labor Day weekend in early September) when prices and crowds spike. Use flexible-date search tools to compare prices across a week and opt for nonstops where possible to cut total travel time.
Nonstop flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) are usually faster and reduce connection risk—ideal when traveling on tight schedules or during shoulder-season weather changes in September. Connecting flights can be cheaper, particularly with flexible routing through hubs like Atlanta, Minneapolis, or Denver, but add potential delay exposure and longer total travel time. If you prioritize cost savings and can accept added time, a one-stop itinerary may work; if you value speed and reliability, prioritize nonstop flights and consider booking refundable or flexible fares for added peace of mind.
Delta Air Lines often offers reliable nonstop service from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with premium cabin options and frequent daily schedules—ideal for travelers prioritizing nonstop flights. American Airlines and United commonly provide one-stop connections with competitive pricing and broad route networks; these can be cost-effective if you don’t mind a connection. Southwest offers flexible two-bag free policy and often competitive fares from DTW to PHX with one-stop routing; note seat selection and boarding differences. For September travel, weigh Delta for nonstop convenience, Southwest for baggage savings and flexible change policies, and American/United for alternate routing options—always compare total cost including baggage and seat fees before booking.
Prepare for a temperature contrast when flying from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in September: lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection are essential for Phoenix, while a light jacket may be useful upon departure from cooler Detroit mornings. Monitor monsoon-season forecasts for Phoenix—late-summer storms can cause short delays, so allow extra connection time. For smoother airport experience, enroll in TSA PreCheck if you travel frequently, pre-book parking at DTW, and arrive early during holiday weekends. Stay hydrated, pack a reusable water bottle, and download airline and airport apps for live updates and mobile boarding passes.
Average nonstop flight time from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is roughly 4 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours depending on winds and route; one-stop itineraries via hubs like Atlanta (ATL), Minneapolis (MSP), or Denver (DEN) typically add 1.5–4 hours of connection time. In September, carriers often run at least one daily nonstop, with additional frequencies on busier days. For schedule planning, prefer early-morning nonstops to avoid afternoon thunderstorm delays in either market and review carrier timetables for the specific September dates you plan to travel.
To score cheap DTW to PHX flights in September, aim to book 3–6 weeks before departure and search for midweek travel (Tuesdays–Thursdays) when fares are typically lower. Early-morning and red-eye nonstops often drop in price because leisure travelers prefer daytime departures; be flexible with dates and airports (consider Mesa (All Airports) (AZA) for budget alternatives). Set fare alerts, check both round-trip and one-way fares, and compare baggage-inclusive fares versus low-cost carrier base fares to avoid surprise fees. Want to grab the best deal? Subscribe to fare alerts for Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and book when price dips occur.