The best flight to Costa Rica is the one that fits your departure city, final destination, baggage and tolerance for connections. There is no single best airline for everyone. Start with the arrival airport, then compare the whole journey rather than the fare alone.
Choose between SJO and LIR first
The Costa Rican Tourism Board identifies Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), near San José, and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), in Liberia, as the two principal international gateways. LIR is a useful starting point for Guanacaste trips; SJO may suit a Central Valley itinerary or other onward travel. Compare your actual road transfer rather than assuming the cheapest arrival saves money overall.
Which airlines should you compare?
The SJO airport airline directory lists commercial operators and links to their own sites. Examples include American, United, Delta, Air Canada, Air France, KLM, Copa and Avianca. A directory listing is not proof that an airline flies nonstop from your city on your dates; check the airline’s dated booking schedule.
For domestic connections, the Tourism Board identifies SANSA and Costa Rica Green Airways. Review baggage allowances and connection logistics separately from an international ticket. Do not assume a domestic flight uses the same baggage rules or that two separately purchased flights form a protected connection.
Compare the complete price
Write down the fare, checked bags, cabin-bag rules, seat charges, changes and the cost of reaching your accommodation. A lower fare may become more expensive if you need several bags or an overnight stop. Read the rules for the exact fare type, not just the airline’s general advertising.
Leave room for a realistic connection
Check whether your bags are transferred, whether you need to clear formalities and whether the next flight is on the same booking. Separate tickets can leave you responsible for a missed onward flight. For a long road journey after arrival, compare arriving earlier with paying for an overnight stop near the airport. The best choice depends on the schedule and your comfort with the route.
Recheck the operating airline when booking a codeshare. Confirm terminal information, check-in requirements and any assistance you need directly with the operator. For pets or special equipment, get acceptance and the applicable conditions before buying a non-refundable itinerary.
Use current schedules and entry information
Routes can be seasonal and schedules can change. Check the airline again before departure and keep its contact details with your booking. For entry requirements, consult DGME and the airline’s document check; an airline recommendation is not an immigration assessment.
For transfer planning, see our guides to beaches from Liberia airport and beaches from San José airport. Select the flight only after you can see how the arrival fits the rest of the trip.
Sources reviewed on 8 September 2026. Availability and service terms can change; use the linked provider or authority for the specific date and address.