Cheap Flights to Washington, VA

Popular airlines to Washington

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What you need to know for your flight to Washington

Flights to Washington at a glance

Traveling to Washington is easy—simply choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight schedules and journey times to find the cheapest flights to Washington that align with your budget, itinerary, and plans to discover the city's iconic attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Washington: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
  • Flights per week: 4,400+ flights arriving at Washington airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Washington: around 70+ carriers

Popular airport near Washington

Washington is a vibrant city ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic getaways. Visitors flock here for various reasons, including opportunities for relaxation, wellness, and family-friendly activities. The region is conveniently served by a major airport, making travel to Washington Dulles International Airport a breeze.

  • Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Situated in Loudoun County, Virginia, approximately 42 miles from downtown Washington, this airport caters to both domestic and international travelers. It offers connections to over 200 domestic cities and more than 270 international locations. Passengers have the option to enhance their travel experience by upgrading to first class, business class, or premium economy seating based on their chosen routes and airlines. Major airlines operating here include United, Frontier Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to Washington

  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Washington (IAD), with one-way flights starting at around $100
  • Atlanta (ATL) to Washington (IAD), with one-way tickets available from around $35
  • Orlando (MCO) to Washington (IAD), with one-way flights starting at around $40
  • Dallas (DFW/DAL) to Washington (IAD), with one-way airfare from around $60
  • Seattle (SEA) to Washington (IAD), with one-way fares starting at around $120

Cheapest routes to Washington

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

  • United: This airline operates flights to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), making up approximately 47% of all arrivals in the area. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $420, with options for premium cabins that may include premium economy, business, and first class depending on the route.
  • Delta: Offering service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Delta captures about 11% of arrivals to the city. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of around $400, with premium cabin choices that may feature premium economy, business, and first class depending on the specific route.
  • American Airlines: Flying into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), American Airlines accounts for nearly 6% of arrivals. The average cost for a one-way ticket is roughly $420, with available premium cabins that may include business class and first class, varying by route.
  • Frontier Airlines: With flights to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Frontier Airlines represents about 4% of arrivals to the region. The typical one-way fare is approximately $160, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.
  • Alaska Airlines: Providing service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Alaska Airlines contributes around 3% of arrivals. Average one-way fares are about $300, with premium cabin offerings that may include business and first class 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 53.1°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 43.5°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $289, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? May, November, and December offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $293 to $308, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$424
February35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$324
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$346
April53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$345
May62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$293
June70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$310
July75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$317
August73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$342
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$310
October55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$289
November43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$305
December36.9°F (2.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$308

*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.*
  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 Washington Dulles International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport Metrorail Station (a metro station) is located about 0.2 miles from the airport, providing easy access for travelers.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Washington, with private rides that 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 around Washington

  • Front Royal: Front Royal is located 15 miles drive away from Washington and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This charming city offers breathtaking scenery and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the majestic Shenandoah River, perfect for a scenic getaway, or delve into the depths of Skyline Caverns for an unforgettable adventure. Lake Frederick Boat Launch is ideal for a romantic day by the water amid beautiful landscapes. With its proximity to national parks, Front Royal is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Huntly: Huntly is located 8 miles drive away from Washington and invites travelers to experience its stunning outdoor adventures. Known for its picturesque surroundings, this city is a gateway to the Shenandoah River, where you can enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities. Skyline Caverns offers a thrilling exploration opportunity, while the nearby Shenandoah River State Park is perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. Huntly is a must-visit for nature lovers looking for a refreshing escape.
  • Rileyville: Rileyville is located 24 miles drive away from Washington and is a picturesque destination for outdoor and adventure seekers. Nestled near the stunning Luray Caverns, visitors can explore remarkable underground formations. The Thorton Gap Entrance to Shenandoah National Park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views, making it a top spot for adventurers. Additionally, Hazard Mill Recreation Area provides a family-friendly environment for eco-conscious travelers. Rileyville’s blend of adventure and natural beauty makes it an appealing stop for those looking to connect with the outdoors.

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—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest attire, and organizing outfits thoughtfully. This strategy also helps you bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices prior to boarding.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account potential 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. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may provide the option to select seats even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to reach the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to ensure ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available for use.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Washington?
Plan your trip for 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 busy periods such as major public holidays or events.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Washington?
Land cheap flights to Washington from Boston, Chicago and Atlanta. These cities usually offer the lowest fares to this unique destination. But remember that seasonality, demand and stopovers also influence rates, so remain flexible and book when you see a bargain.
Which US cities fly direct to Washington?
You can fly to Washington without a stopover from 92 US destinations. To find a nonstop journey, select "Direct flights only" when browsing for flights to Washington on Expedia. Then, compare the options and pick the best departure out of one of these cities:

  • Boston
  • Chicago
  • Atlanta
  • New York
  • Orlando

How to find a cheap flight to Washington?
Book early to increase your chances of finding cheap flights to Washington. Also, consider traveling during off-season months like January and March. If you jet off on a Thursday, you'll save 16% on average compared to those departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and create a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll let you know when fares drop.*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?
Staying flexible with your travel plans may help you to find last-minute deals on cheap flights to Washington. To view all the available options, try exploring different ticket types, tweaking your Washington trip dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or going with another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Washington?
Book your flight to Washington two to four months ahead if you're coming in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the timeframe is around 28 days in advance. Lower fares and a greater choice of departure dates, schedules and seating options are just a few of the benefits of booking early.**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 generally get cheap flights to Washington on a Sunday. You can save about 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is often the most expensive day to book.**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?
Washington is connected to 125 airports globally through 38 carriers, with Washington Dulles Intl. Airport (IAD) as its primary gateway. Select from these major airlines to Washington when booking your trip:

  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • Southern Airways Express

Where do you fly into Washington?
The main airport when you fly to Washington is Washington Dulles Intl. Airport (IAD), but there are other nearby choices like Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) and Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD). You can also land at Front Royal, VA (FRR-Front Royal - Warren County) and Culpeper, VA (QCL-Culpeper Regional) when flying to Washington.
How far is the airport from central Washington?
If you're jetting into Washington Dulles Intl. Airport (IAD), you'll be around 40 mi northeast of central Washington.
Can I save money by booking a Washington trip package?
Book a Washington flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can benefit from significant savings. It's a breeze to bundle your flights and accommodations, and you can even add tours and car rentals to create your own personalized Washington break. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Washington?
If you reserved your flight to Washington in the last 24 hours, you can usually cancel or change it for free. After that, additional charges may apply depending on the airline's rules and restrictions. For more information, head to our Customer Service Portal. Keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be issued a credit for future flights rather than a direct refund. When browsing Expedia, select the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" boxes to find fares with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Washington
Destination airport IATA code
DCA

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