Your Journey Begins in Islamorada

Traveling to the Keys through commercial routes often involves multiple steps, major airports, delays, and extended transfers. Private aviation removes those layers entirely, giving you full control over how and when you travel.

With Air Flight Charters, your itinerary is built around your needs. You arrive shortly before departure, avoid crowded terminals, and travel in a quiet, controlled environment designed for comfort and discretion. Whether you are planning a weekend escape, a multi-stop coastal itinerary, or a last-minute trip, flexibility remains at the center of the experience.

• Direct Access to the Middle Keys: Land closer to Islamorada than any commercial option allows.
• No Long Drives: Skip the hour-plus drive from Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Arrive refreshed.
• Flexible Scheduling: Depart when you want, return when you are ready. No airline timetables.
• Specialized Luggage Welcome: Fishing rods, dive gear, paddleboards, and personal items move with you seamlessly. No lost baggage claims.
• Seamless Marine Coordination: Align your flight arrival with boat charters, marina departures, or resort check-ins.

Accessing Islamorada by air is centered around general aviation airports, each offering a different type of arrival experience depending on how close you want to be to the water upon landing.

Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH / KMTH)

The primary gateway for private aircraft traveling into the Middle Keys. Positioned just south of Islamorada (approximately 20 minutes), it allows for a smooth transition from air to island without the congestion associated with larger commercial hubs.

After landing, the journey into Islamorada continues along the Overseas Highway (US-1), where ocean views and open stretches of water accompany the drive. Its location makes it especially convenient for travelers staying at waterfront resorts, private residences, or marina-front properties throughout the region.

• IATA Code: MTH
• ICAO Code: KMTH
• Runway Length: 5,001 feet (1,524 meters)
• Elevation: 5 feet (1.5 meters) above sea level
• Best For: Primary private access to Islamorada and the Middle Keys
• Ground Transfer to Islamorada: Approximately 20 minutes north via US-1

Plantation Key Airport (17FL)

For those prioritizing proximity above all else, Plantation Key Airport offers a far more direct entry into Islamorada itself. Located within the village on Plantation Key, it allows travelers to arrive just moments away from their final destination.

This airstrip is private and operates on a restricted basis, requiring prior coordination. Air Flight Charters manages these clearances for you. When access is arranged, it delivers an experience that closely reflects the essence of private aviation: minimal transition time, immediate access to the water, and a seamless continuation from aircraft to island life.

• IATA Code: N/A
• FAA Code: 17FL
• ICAO Code: Not assigned
• Runway Length: Approximately 3,300 feet (1,006 meters)
• Runway Surface: Asphalt
• Elevation: 5 feet (1.5 meters) above sea level
• Restrictions: Private field. Prior authorization required.
• Best For: Direct, doorstep access to Islamorada. Minimal ground transfer.

Additional Nearby Private Aviation Airports

Ocean Reef Club Airport (07FA / OCA): Located in Key Largo, approximately 30 minutes north of Islamorada. Private, member-only field. Air Flight Charters holds pre-approval. Best for travelers combining Key Largo and Islamorada in one trip.

Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (OPF / KOPF): A major private aviation hub north of the Keys. U.S. Customs on-site for international arrivals. Best for heavy jets or arrivals requiring customs clearance. Ground transfer to Islamorada: approximately 75–90 minutes.

Islamorada is different from the mainland and different from other parts of the Keys. Success here depends less on packing lists and more on understanding fishing etiquette, tide charts, and the slower rhythm of island time.

Hire a Guide, Especially for Fishing

Islamorada’s waters are complex. Flats, channels, and reef lines shift with tides. Local guides know where the fish are and how to get there. A good guide doubles your chances of a memorable day on the water.

Tide Charts Are Not Optional

Fishing success, snorkel visibility, and even boating access depend entirely on tides. Slack tide offers calmest conditions for diving. Incoming tide pushes baitfish onto the flats. Outgoing tide concentrates fish near channels. Your guide or charter captain will know the schedule.

Sunday Closures Are Real

Some local restaurants, shops, and even some guide services close on Sunday or operate reduced hours. Stock up on groceries and provisions on Saturday.

Cell Service Is Reliable Near US-1

Coverage along the Overseas Highway is strong. Offshore or on Florida Bay, service drops significantly. Download offline maps and entertainment before departing.

Mosquitoes and No-See-Ums Are Aggressive at Dawn and Dusk

The mangroves and bay side breed biting insects year-round. Repellent is essential, especially from May through October. Screened porches and oceanfront breezes help.

Hurricane Season Runs June 1 to November 30

Peak risk is September through October. Travel insurance is strongly recommended during these months. Monitor weather forecasts before departure.

The Overseas Highway Is the Only Road In and Out

US-1 is a two-lane road for much of the Keys. Accidents, breakdowns, or construction can cause hours-long delays. This is why flying private matters. When the highway is blocked, your aircraft is your escape route or your alternative arrival point.

“Keys Time” Is Not a Joke

Ferries leave when ready. Guides wait for regulars. Meals come out when they are ready. Islamorada does not run on a tight schedule. Pushing makes no difference. Relaxing does.

Temperatures by Season

December to February: 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Coolest months, lowest humidity. Evening water temperatures drop; wetsuit recommended for diving (3mm). Peak fishing for sailfish. Best overall weather.

March to May: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). Warming water. Excellent diving visibility. Peak tarpon season begins in April. Spring break crowds increase March through early April.

June to August: 78°F to 90°F (26°C to 32°C). Hot and humid. Afternoon thunderstorms common. Water temperatures reach 85°F (29°C); dive without a wetsuit or wear a skin. Good fishing for mahi-mahi and tuna.

September to November: 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Hurricane risk peaks September through October. Water remains warm. Fewer crowds after Labor Day. Excellent bonefishing on the flats.

What to Pack Specifically for Islamorada

Reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based, chemical sunscreens are banned in the Keys), polarized sunglasses (essential for spotting fish on the flats and reducing glare), a wide-brimmed hat, lightweight long-sleeved shirts (sun protection), a light wetsuit or rash guard (for diving and snorkeling), water shoes (for docks and rocky edges), a dry bag for boat trips, mosquito repellent, fishing gloves (if you plan to handle fish), and a light jacket for winter evenings (December through February).

Islamorada is well-connected to major cities across the United States through private aviation, allowing travelers to reach the Keys without unnecessary stops or delays.

• New York (Teterboro – KTEB) → Islamorada (MTH): A direct connection from the Northeast, making same-day coastal transitions effortless. Flight time: approximately 3 hours.
• Atlanta (DeKalb-Peachtree – KPDK) → Islamorada (MTH): A convenient short-haul route ideal for weekend travel. Flight time: approximately 1.5 hours.
• Chicago (Chicago Executive – KPWK) → Islamorada (MTH): A popular escape route from the Midwest to warm coastal waters. Flight time: approximately 2.5 hours.
• Dallas (Dallas Love Field – KDAL) → Islamorada (MTH): Connecting Texas directly to the Florida Keys in a single, uninterrupted journey. Flight time: approximately 2.5 hours.
• Naples (Naples Airport – KAPF) → Islamorada (MTH): A quick regional flight that avoids the long drive around Florida Bay. Flight time: approximately 45 minutes.
• Miami (Opa-locka Executive – KOPF) → Islamorada (MTH): A short hop that replaces hours of traffic with a smooth aerial transfer. Flight time: approximately 25 minutes.

Each route can be tailored with the appropriate aircraft, ensuring efficiency while maintaining a high standard of comfort and performance.

Private charter passengers arriving at Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH) use the on-site FBO (Fixed Base Operator) for efficient, discreet handling. The facility is designed for general aviation, meaning no commercial crowds and minimal wait times.

Important information for private flyers:

Fees & Requirements

• Landing fees: Moderate, included in your detailed quote
• Ramp fees: Waived with fuel purchase at most FBOs
• No customs for domestic arrivals
• International arrivals: Clear customs at OPF, MIA, or FLL before continuing to the Keys

Our detailed quotes always include all applicable taxes, fees, and FBO handling charges. Our pilots coordinate all ground arrangements on your behalf.

Ground Transfers from Airport to Islamorada

• From Marathon Airport (MTH): Approximately 20 minutes north via US-1. Private car services, rental cars, or chauffeured vehicles can be arranged in advance.
• From Plantation Key Airport (17FL): Immediate access. Your accommodation or marina is likely within a 5–10 minute drive.
• From Ocean Reef Club (07FA): Approximately 30–40 minutes south via US-1.

Islamorada sits in the heart of the Keys, making it an ideal base for multi-stop itineraries by private charter.

Key Largo

Approximately 30 minutes north. Home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Christ of the Abyss. Combine reef diving with Islamorada’s fishing.

Marathon (The Heart of the Keys)

Approximately 25 minutes south. Home to the Turtle Hospital, Sombrero Reef, and the Seven Mile Bridge.

Key West

Approximately 1.5 hours south by car or 25 minutes by private charter. Add the southernmost point, Duval Street, and Mallory Square to your itinerary.

Miami & South Florida

Approximately 25 minutes by private charter or 75–90 minutes by car. Combine business meetings or nightlife with a Keys escape.

The Bahamas (Abacos, Bimini, Nassau)

A short private flight from South Florida airports (OPF, FXE). Add Bahamian island-hopping to your Florida Keys journey.