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$129 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF)

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport (BUF)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Buffalo (DCA-BUF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $129 for one-way flights and $227 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
American Airlines
American Airlines
American Airlines
Delta
American Airlines
American Airlines
JetBlue Airways
United
Southwest Airlines

Alternative airports near Buffalo

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National to Buffalo Niagara Intl.

Washington (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF) at a glance

Travel from Washington, D.C. (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF) with a variety of airlines on this short domestic route. You can choose between full-service and low-cost carriers, allowing you to find the ideal itinerary that matches your budget and schedule. Discover Buffalo's iconic attractions and neighborhoods while checking the key details for your next flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to Buffalo Niagara International Airport, including options for weekly flights.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
  • Flights per week: around 14 flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $90–$335, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored by passengers traveling from Washington to Buffalo, usually for non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover points include Logan International Airport (BOS) with about a 1h 15m layover, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) also at approximately 1h 15m, and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) with a similar layover time. These options provide the flexibility to balance cost, total travel duration, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This major carrier provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $90 and $335. It dominates the route with around 88% of departures, and non-stop flights typically take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  • JetBlue Airways: As a budget airline, JetBlue offers one-stop routes at one-way fares usually ranging from $90 to $260. It represents approximately 8% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours, leading to a total travel time of around 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • Delta: This full-service airline provides one-stop travel with one-way fares that usually range from $100 to $380. Delta accounts for about 3% of departures on this route, with in-flight times hitting 3 hours and total journey times of roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly fares, Southwest offers one-stop service with one-way prices typically between $220 and $345. It makes up about 1% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total journey time of around 4 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover time.

Travelers flying from Washington to Buffalo have the option to upgrade to first class with American Airlines, which provides premium service on this route.

Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Buffalo are March, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Buffalo reach up to 72°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 64.6°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $167. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. March and April have the fewest flights, with approximately 12 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $167, roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: February, January, and June typically offer average one-way fares of around $178.
  • Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Washington to Buffalo, with approximately 18 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.5°F (-3.6°C)Average13$177
February26.1°F (-3.3°C)Average13$174
March34.3°F (1.3°C)Slightly High12$189
April45.0°F (7.2°C)Average12$187
May57.7°F (14.3°C)Average17$167
June66.0°F (18.9°C)Average16$181
July72.0°F (22.2°C)Slightly High17$184
August70.7°F (21.5°C)Slightly High18$187
September64.6°F (18.1°C)Slightly Low15$185
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Average14$184
November41.4°F (5.2°C)Slightly Low14$202
December33.1°F (0.6°C)Slightly Low14$186

*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 route from Washington (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF)

  • Washington to Buffalo (IAD-BUF): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). For one-way economy tickets on this route, prices generally vary from $90 to $340, influenced by the season and how far in advance you book. Travelers can choose between non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines serving this route include United and budget-friendly Frontier Airlines. Additionally, first class is offered on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m. tend to be less expensive and are also popular. Additionally, flying on Monday generally yields lower prices, while Friday remains the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Buffalo welcomes travelers from Washington with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is roughly a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from central Washington. Here's how to reach Buffalo efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Buffalo, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport, Buffalo-Depew Station, a train station, is located about 2.6 miles away by car, while University Station, a metro station, is situated approximately 6.5 miles from the airport, also reachable by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $129 and cheap return flights from $227 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $165 and $940, and roundtrip flights usually range from $297 to $964. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from DCA to BUF is September 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
You can fly direct from DCA to BUF on American Airlines, with around 27 flights per week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Buffalo, NY (BUF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $473.48. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Buffalo, NY (BUF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, American Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from Washington, DC to Buffalo, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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.
How many flights per day from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
There are approximately 4 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Washington, DC (Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport) to Buffalo (Buffalo Niagara International Airport) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. An early departure like this can help you maximize your time in Buffalo. Note that this service is seasonal and operates in May and June. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Buffalo (BUF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 30% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta, United Airlines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to arrive in Buffalo with a full day ahead of you.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from DCA to BUF typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, covering approximately 296 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 5 hours to your travel time. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
You can fly first class between DCA and BUF. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
From Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF) to reach Buffalo. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Logan Intl. (BOS), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) before reaching Buffalo. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) Buffalo 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Destination airport
Buffalo Niagara Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$227
Distance
295 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 24 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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