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$34 Cheap Flights to Washington, MD

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Popular airlines to Washington

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Today's featured flight deals to Washington

NonstopCarry-on includedLower price than typical

How much is the cheapest flight to Washington?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $34 for one-way flights and $73 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
United
Delta

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to Washington (WAS)

From $127 - $429 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight to Washington

Flights to Washington at a glance

Traveling to Washington is easy—simply select from a range of full-service or budget airlines, compare travel times, and choose the option that aligns with your budget and schedule as you plan to explore the city’s renowned landmarks and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around Washington: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
  • Closest airport to Washington: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, DCA (within Washington)
  • Flights per week: 8,750+ flights arriving across Washington airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Washington: around 70+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Washington

Washington, D.C. is a vibrant metropolis ideal for family getaways, urban exploration, and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock to this city for its rich culture, diverse entertainment options, and beautiful outdoor spaces. The area is primarily served by two major airports.

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): Situated in Arlington County, Virginia, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking to over 225 domestic cities and 115 international locations. Travelers have the option to enhance their experience with upgrades to first class, premium economy, or business class seating, depending on the airline and route. Major carriers operating here include American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue Airways.
  • Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Located about 23 miles from Washington in Loudoun County, Virginia, this airport handles both domestic and international flights, connecting to approximately 200 domestic cities and over 270 international destinations. Passengers can select from various upgrade options, such as first class, business class, and premium economy seating, based on the route and airline. Notable airlines at this airport include United, Frontier Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to Washington

  • Boston (BOS) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with one-way fares starting at around $70
  • Orlando (MCO) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with one-way flights starting at around $40
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with one-way flights starting at around $100
  • Atlanta (ATL) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with one-way flight options from around $35
  • Miami (MIA) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with one-way tickets available from around $40

Cheapest routes to Washington

  • South Bend (SBN) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with affordable one-way prices from around $30
  • Ogdensburg (OGS) to Washington (IAD), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $30
  • Tri-Cities (TRI) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
  • Wilmington (ILM) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $35
  • Atlanta (ATL) to Washington (IAD/DCA), with affordable one-way prices from around $35

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Washington

  • American Airlines: Servicing both Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), this airline represents about 31% of arrivals in the area. The typical one-way fare hovers around $360, with options for premium cabins like business and first class based on the route.
  • United: Also flying to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), United accounts for roughly 25% of arrivals in Washington. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $370, offering premium cabin choices such as premium economy, business, and first class, depending on the specific route.
  • Delta: Operating flights to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Delta contributes approximately 14% of arrivals in the region. One-way fares average about $350, with premium service options that may include premium economy, business, and first class depending on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: Providing service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Southwest Airlines makes up around 8% of arrivals in the area. The average one-way fare is approximately $240, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers.
  • JetBlue Airways: Flying into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), JetBlue accounts for about 4% of arrivals in Washington. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $530, and premium cabin options may include premium economy service depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Washington

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Washington are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Washington can reach up to 56.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 71.1°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $231, roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? May, September, and November offer average one-way fares of around $238, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$309
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$250
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$267
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$276
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$234
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$252
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$252
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$260
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$240
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$231
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$241
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$245

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Washington

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Washington is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Washington hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Washington flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Washington

Washington welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Washington efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, National Airport Station (a metro station) is located about 0.2 miles away and can be reached on foot, while Alexandria Station (a train station) is approximately 3.8 miles away by car, and Washington Seaport (a seaport) is around 4.8 miles away, also accessible by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Washington, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Washington is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Washington on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Washington

  • Arlington: Arlington is located in the area of Washington and is a vibrant city that offers a blend of family-friendly activities, business opportunities, and urban experiences. Visitors can explore shopping centers and educational venues, while enjoying the local landmarks such as the Pentagon, a modern civic government building ideal for business travelers, and the historic White House, which provides a cultural insight into American history. Don't miss Georgetown University, a historic college that further enriches the area's cultural landscape.
  • National Harbor: National Harbor is located in the area of Washington and serves as a picturesque village perfect for family outings, business trips, and urban exploration. Here, you'll find a variety of shopping centers and resorts, along with the stunning National Mall, a national state park that invites adventure and outdoor enjoyment. Families will appreciate the National Children's Museum, while the National Harbor Marina offers a delightful escape for those seeking beach-side activities and scenic views. The area is particularly lively during summer months, making it a great time to visit.
  • Bethesda: Bethesda is located in the area of Washington and is an appealing city for families, business travelers, and urban explorers alike. The area features numerous shopping malls and educational institutions. Key points of interest include the Congressional Country Club, a premier golf course, and Howard University, a modern college that enhances the local vibe. Additionally, American University, a historic institution, offers cultural insights that are well worth exploring. Enjoy the urban parks and sports facilities that add to Bethesda's charm.

Tips for short-haul flights to Washington

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Maximize your packing by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits efficiently. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book. Be sure to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Washington

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Many full-service airlines allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to ensure sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free Wi-Fi for your convenience.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to sync your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help mitigate jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Washington?
Plan your trip for September if you're hoping to get a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Washington. If possible, avoid traveling during peak periods such as school vacation time or public holidays.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Washington?
Generally, Boston, Chicago and Atlanta have cheap flights to Washington. Flexibility, however, is key to scoring the best prices. Plan your trip during the off-peak season or midweek to keep costs to a minimum.
Which US cities fly direct to Washington?
Take your pick of 92 US cities with direct flights to Washington. When booking on Expedia, select "Direct flights only" to compare nonstop routes. Fly to Washington from any of these major cities:
  • Boston
  • Chicago
  • Atlanta
  • New York
  • Orlando
How to find a cheap flight to Washington?
Book your trip early to snag cheap flights to Washington. Also, consider traveling during off-peak months like December and January. If you jet off on a Thursday, you can save 16% on average compared to departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and create a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll update you when fares change.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Washington?
It's possible to get good deals on last-minute departures to Washington, especially if your travel plans are flexible. Consider your options for flying from a different airport, changing your trip dates or choosing another airline to get a cheap flight to Washington.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Washington?
Find the departure dates you want and a fare that suits your budget by booking your domestic flight to Washington up to 28 days in advance. Lock in tickets two to four months ahead if you're jetting to Washington from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Washington?
You can usually find cheap flights to Washington on a Sunday. Travelers can save about 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day to purchase tickets.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Washington?
There are 7 carriers connecting Washington with 98 airports all over the world. The primary gateway to this city is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Travel with any of these well-known airlines to Washington:
  • JetBlue Airways
  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
Where do you fly into Washington?
When flying to Washington, the main airport to arrive at is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). You can also jet into nearby hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. Airport (IAD), Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) or College Park, MD (CGS). Another good option worth keeping in mind when you fly to Washington is Camp Springs, MD (ADW-Andrews Air Force Base).
How far is the airport from central Washington?
If you're flying into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), you'll be roughly 4 mi south of the center of Washington.
Can I save money by booking a Washington trip package?
Book a Washington flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could make significant savings. It's a breeze to bundle your flights and accommodations, and you can add activities and car rentals to create your own customized Washington vacation. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Washington?
If you booked your flight to Washington within the last 24 hours, you can usually cancel or change it without fees. After that, additional costs may apply depending on the airline's terms and conditions. To learn more, head to our Customer Service Portal. Bear in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may receive a credit toward a future flight instead of a direct refund. When browsing Expedia, select the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters to see tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

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Tips to find the cheapest flights to Washington

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Washington on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

September is the cheapest month to fly to Washington. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Washington. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Washington, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Washington

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Washington in 2026 starts from from $73, while one-way tickets start from from $34. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Washington. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Washington

Frontier Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Washington. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Washington and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Washington, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Washington. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Washington plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Washington

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Washington.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Washington are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Washington. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Washington for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Washington. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Washington flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Washington. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Washington

Travel information

Destination airport
Washington Dulles Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
IAD
Destination city name
Washington
Roundtrip price
$72

Trending flights to Washington

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $34 for one-way flights and $73 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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