October travel from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Quad City International Airport (MLI) blends Pacific Northwest autumn weather with Midwest fall colors. This route is popular for family visits, fall festivals in the Quad Cities (Davenport, Moline, Rock Island) and business travel connecting Seattle's tech hubs (Bellevue, Everett) to the Illinois/Iowa corridor. Typical itineraries include one-stop connections via Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) or Chicago O'Hare (ORD).
October arrival planning to Quad City International Airport (MLI) centers on enjoying fall events in the Quad Cities—Moline, Davenport and Rock Island—while navigating one-stop itineraries from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Expect crisp temperatures, seasonal festivals, and riverfront activities; the airport connects travelers to regional business hubs and leisure destinations.
October is a lively month for events on both ends of the SEA → MLI route. In Seattle, enjoy Seahawks NFL games at Lumen Field, local Oktoberfests, haunted tours and seasonal markets. In the Quad Cities served by Quad City International Airport (MLI), October highlights include Oktoberfest celebrations, harvest markets, art walks and riverfront fall festivals in Davenport and Moline. Plan flights around festival dates to secure lodging and lower fares when possible.
The best time to fly from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Quad City International Airport (MLI) in October is midweek (Tuesday–Wednesday) to capture lower airfares and fewer crowds. Early October often has lower demand and better prices than late October when fall festivals and college events boost travel. For best balance of price and convenience, book flights departing mid-morning or early afternoon to reduce the likelihood of cascading delays tied to early-morning weather at SEA.
Direct nonstop flights between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Quad City International Airport (MLI) are rare—most travelers will book connecting flights via Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) or Chicago O'Hare (ORD). Connecting flights often reduce cost and increase schedule options, while direct flights (if available seasonally) cut travel time and simplify logistics. For October travel, prioritize longer layovers to account for weather variability in the Pacific Northwest and Midwest.
Major carriers that commonly serve one-stop SEA to MLI itineraries in October include Delta (via MSP), United (via ORD), and American (via ORD). Alaska Airlines can be competitive on the Seattle-origin segment when paired with partner connections. Compare total travel time, baggage fees, change/cancellation policies, and loyalty program benefits when deciding. For October travel, prioritize carriers with robust rebooking policies and frequent hub operations to reduce risk of missed connections.
October travel between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Quad City International Airport (MLI) requires preparation for mixed weather—rain and wind on the West Coast and crisp, variable conditions in the Midwest. Pack waterproof outerwear, layered clothing, and sneakers or boots suitable for wet sidewalks. Consider allowing extra connection time for weather-related delays, book refundable or flexible tickets where possible, and use mobile boarding passes and airline apps to receive real-time updates.
Typical SEA to MLI itineraries in October are one-stop and range from about 5.5 to 8 hours total travel time including gate-to-gate segments and layovers. Common connections are Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) on Delta and Chicago O'Hare (ORD) on United or American. Flight schedules vary by carrier; daytime and evening departures are available with fewer red-eye options. Check weekday vs weekend frequency—weekdays may have more reliable business-oriented connections.
Find cheap flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Quad City International Airport (MLI) in October by searching flexible dates, midweek departures, and one-stop itineraries via Minneapolis (MSP) or Chicago (ORD). Set fare alerts on Google Flights, Skyscanner, and airline sites, and compare bundled options (car + hotel) for savings. Consider alternative nearby airports such as Chicago Midway/O'Hare or Des Moines for lower fares and drive-in options to the Quad Cities. Use reward points, off-peak times and red-eye alternatives for the cheapest SEA to MLI flights.
