$160 Cheap Flights from Appleton (ATW) to Columbus (CMH)
Popular airlines from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH)
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UnitedUnited
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Cheap Flights from Appleton to Columbus (ATW-CMH)
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Appleton (ATW) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance
Travel from Appleton International Airport (ATW) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) with a range of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Discover options for Appleton to Columbus flights, comparing full-service and budget carriers to find the itinerary that best suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Appleton or simply want the most convenient schedule, key details for your journey to Columbus's vibrant neighborhoods and attractions are just a click away.
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
- Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$375, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Appleton International Airport (ATW) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for one-stop flights from Appleton to Columbus. Common layover options include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a layover of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with about a 2-hour and 15-minute layover, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a layover of around 2 hours and 30 minutes. These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best itinerary.
- United: This full-service airline provides one-stop service with one-way fares generally between $120 and $385. It represents about 51% of all departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of around 4 hours, including layover.
- American Airlines: As a full-service carrier, American Airlines offers one-stop options with one-way fares ranging from $130 to $365. It accounts for roughly 30% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes and a total journey time of about 4 hours, factoring in the layover.
- Delta: This full-service airline features one-stop service, with one-way fares typically priced between $115 and $360. Delta constitutes approximately 19% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes and an overall travel time of around 4 hours, including layover.
Best time to fly from Appleton (ATW) to Columbus (CMH)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Appleton to Columbus are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Columbus reach up to 52°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 35.4°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $149. Flight availability peaks in June and October, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $149, roughly 27% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: December typically offers an average one-way fare of around $165.
- Most flight options: June and October have the highest number of flights from Appleton to Columbus, with approximately 10 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 28.6°F (-1.9°C) | Average | 7 | $199 |
| February | 31.5°F (-0.3°C) | High | 8 | $216 |
| March | 41.7°F (5.4°C) | High | 9 | $206 |
| April | 52.0°F (11.1°C) | High | 7 | $246 |
| May | 63.1°F (17.3°C) | Average | 7 | $149 |
| June | 70.9°F (21.6°C) | Low | 10 | $222 |
| July | 74.7°F (23.7°C) | Average | 8 | $185 |
| August | 73.0°F (22.8°C) | Average | 7 | $184 |
| September | 67.3°F (19.6°C) | Low | 7 | $248 |
| October | 55.8°F (13.2°C) | Average | 10 | $214 |
| November | 43.2°F (6.2°C) | Average | 7 | $228 |
| December | 35.4°F (1.9°C) | Low | 7 | $165 |
*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 Appleton (ATW) to Columbus (CMH)
- Green Bay to Columbus (GRB-CMH): Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) lies approximately 25 miles from Appleton International Airport (ATW). On this route, one-way economy ticket prices generally fall between $115 and $400, influenced by the season and the timing of your booking. Flights typically involve one-stop options, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Major airlines operating on this route include United and Delta. Additionally, business class service is offered for travelers seeking an upgraded experience.
How to find the best prices for flights from Appleton (ATW) to Columbus (CMH)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Appleton to Columbus 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 found when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday generally yields cheaper prices, even though Thursday is 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 John Glenn Columbus International Airport from Appleton International Airport
Columbus welcomes travelers from Appleton with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Columbus efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Columbus, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from John Glenn Columbus International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at John Glenn Columbus 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 John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Columbus Bus Station, a bus station, is located about 8.6 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers needing to continue their journey.
Appleton to Columbus Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Appleton to Columbus
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 Appleton to Columbus are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Appleton to Columbus with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Appleton to Columbus
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Appleton to Columbus: 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 Appleton to Columbus
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 Appleton to Columbus in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $160 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 Appleton to Columbus 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 Appleton to Columbus 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $160 and cheap return flights $319 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $172 and $610, and roundtrip flights usually range from $314 to $935. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ATW to CMH is November 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Enter ATW to CMH and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.), with round-trip tickets starting from around $596. This flight includes a layover in O'Hare Intl. (ORD). 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Appleton (ATW) to Columbus (CMH) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in February, and an early departure can help you make the most of your time in Columbus. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Appleton, WI (ATW) to Columbus, OH (CMH) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 39% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Columbus with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
A flight from ATW to CMH with a layover takes around 5 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 412 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from ATW to CMH. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus from Appleton Intl. (ATW)?
When traveling from Appleton Intl. (ATW) to Columbus, you can fly into Columbus Metropolitan (CSG), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) and Golden Triangle Regional (GTR). Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD) before reaching Columbus. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) Columbus 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
If you booked your Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 | Appleton, WI |
|---|---|
Destination airport | John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport |
Distance | 411 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $319 |