$302 Cheap Flights from Columbia (CAE) to Phoenix (PHX)
Popular airlines from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
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Cheap Flights from Columbia to Phoenix (CAE-PHX)
Alternative airports near Phoenix
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Columbia (CAE) to Phoenix (PHX) at a glance
Explore a range of options for flights from Columbia (CAE) to Phoenix (PHX) on this domestic short-haul route. You can compare various airlines, from full-service carriers to budget-friendly choices, ensuring you find the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel needs. Discover essential information for your journey from Columbia Metropolitan Airport to Sky Harbor International Airport as you plan your visit to Phoenix's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.
- Fastest flight duration: around 5h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
- Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$515, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines for flights from Columbia to Phoenix are often selected for their one-stop services. Common layover points include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with an approximate 1 hour 15 minute layover, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) also around 1 hour 15 minutes, and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with about a 1 hour 30 minute layover. This variety allows you to weigh options for price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.
- American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, commanding about 49% of the flights on this route. One-way fares generally fall between $130 and $550. Expect an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 45 minutes, with an overall travel time of around 7 hours, including a layover.
- Delta: Another full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights and captures approximately 41% of departures for this route. One-way ticket prices usually range from $140 to $530. You'll spend about 5 hours and 45 minutes in the air, totaling roughly 7 hours of travel time, including layover.
- United: This full-service carrier provides one-stop services, accounting for around 9% of departures on this route. One-way fares typically range from $130 to $475. The flight time is about 5 hours and 45 minutes, with a complete journey lasting approximately 7 hours, including the layover.
Travelers flying from Columbia to Phoenix can enhance their experience by upgrading their seats. Delta provides first class and premium economy options, while American Airlines offers first class service exclusively.
Best time to fly from Columbia (CAE) to Phoenix (PHX)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Columbia to Phoenix are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Phoenix reach up to 74.5°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 92.3°F. For better deals, July usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $223. Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. March and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: July usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $223, roughly 23% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $244.
- Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Columbia to Phoenix, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 55.4°F (13.0°C) | Average | 10 | $268 |
| February | 58.6°F (14.8°C) | Moderately High | 11 | $266 |
| March | 66.0°F (18.9°C) | Moderately High | 9 | $317 |
| April | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Moderately High | 12 | $345 |
| May | 82.0°F (27.8°C) | Average | 14 | $244 |
| June | 92.3°F (33.5°C) | Moderately Low | 10 | $280 |
| July | 95.7°F (35.4°C) | Average | 11 | $223 |
| August | 94.8°F (34.9°C) | Average | 10 | $253 |
| September | 89.8°F (32.1°C) | Average | 10 | $302 |
| October | 77.7°F (25.4°C) | Average | 11 | $312 |
| November | 65.5°F (18.6°C) | Moderately Low | 10 | $340 |
| December | 55.4°F (13.0°C) | Moderately Low | 9 | $333 |
*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.
Alternative routes from Columbia (CAE) to Phoenix (PHX)
- Columbia to Scottsdale (CAE-SCF): Located roughly 14 miles from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Scottsdale Airport (SCF) serves as a convenient option for travelers.
- Columbia to Mesa (CAE-AZA): Phoenix - Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) lies about 22 miles from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), making it a practical choice for connections.
- Aiken to Phoenix (AIK-PHX): Aiken Municipal Airport (AIK) is positioned approximately 38 miles from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), offering an essential route to the area.
How to find the best prices for flights from Columbia (CAE) to Phoenix (PHX)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbia to Phoenix is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book two to eight weeks ahead. Afternoon flights (12 PM to 6 PM) often have lower prices, even though morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally yields cheaper prices, while Friday remains the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.
Arriving at Sky Harbor International Airport from Columbia Metropolitan Airport
Phoenix welcomes travelers from Columbia with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Columbia Metropolitan Airport is roughly a 15-minute drive (covering about 8 miles) from central Columbia. Here's how to reach Phoenix efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Phoenix, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Sky Harbor International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sky Harbor International Airport on Expedia.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
- Public transportation: From Sky Harbor International Airport, key transport links are conveniently located nearby; Terminal 3 Station, a metro station, is about 0.1 miles from the airport on foot, while the Phoenix Airport Bus Stop, a bus station, is situated about 0.2 miles away on foot.
Columbia to Phoenix Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Columbia to Phoenix
On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Columbia to Phoenix are during the month of February. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Columbia to Phoenix with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Columbia to Phoenix
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Columbia to Phoenix: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.
How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Columbia to Phoenix
Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Columbia to Phoenix in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $302 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.
Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Columbia to Phoenix flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.
You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Columbia to Phoenix airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.
*Terms apply.
Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $302 and cheap return flights $379 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $230 and $1143, and roundtrip flights usually range from $457 to $1448. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.
*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from CAE to PHX is February when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
Enter CAE to PHX and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) with a layover in Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), starting from around $238. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM. This is a seasonal service operated by American Airlines, giving you a great opportunity to arrive in Phoenix early and enjoy a full day ahead. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
How long does it take to fly from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
A flight from CAE to PHX with a layover takes around 8 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 1,769 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
You can fly first class between CAE and PHX. First class cabins are available on:
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
How do I earn miles on a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Phoenix from Columbia Metropolitan (CAE)?
From Columbia Metropolitan (CAE), you can fly into Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX) to reach Phoenix. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT) before reaching Phoenix. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) Phoenix Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
If you booked your Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.
Travel information
Origin airport | Columbia Metropolitan Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport |
Distance | 1,769 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $379 |