$121 Cheap Flights from Birmingham (BHM) to Washington (DCA)
Popular airlines from Birmingham International Airport (BHM) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
UnitedUnited
Be in the knowGet alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
Book smarterSave up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
Cheap Flights from Birmingham to Washington (BHM-DCA)
Alternative airports near Washington
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Book with confidence
Birmingham (BHM) to Washington (DCA) at a glance
Travel between Birmingham (BHM) and Washington (DCA) with a range of airlines servicing this domestic short-haul route. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options or full-service flights, compare different carriers to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel schedule. Uncover the key details for flights from Birmingham International Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, making it easy to explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Washington.
- Fastest flight duration: around 2 hours non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
- Flights per week: around 14 flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$415, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Birmingham International Airport (BHM) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Birmingham to Washington, focusing on both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layovers include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with about a 1-hour layover, Nashville International Airport (BNA) with approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Midway International Airport (MDW) featuring a 1-hour layover. These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal travel itinerary.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $125 and $435. It operates about 75% of the flights on this route, and the typical non-stop flight duration is around 2 hours.
- Southwest Airlines: Known as a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest offers one-stop services with one-way fares typically ranging from $120 to $405. It makes up roughly 13% of departures along this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total travel duration of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
- Delta: This full-service airline provides one-stop service options, with one-way fares usually ranging from $120 to $475. Delta accounts for about 12% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total journey time of around 4 hours and 30 minutes, incorporating layover time.
Travelers flying from Birmingham to Washington have the option to upgrade their experience. American Airlines offers first class, while Delta provides both first class and premium economy class for added comfort.
Best time to fly from Birmingham (BHM) to Washington (DCA)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Birmingham to Washington are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Washington 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, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $209. Flight availability peaks in May and November, with approximately 17 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 12 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $209, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: September, December, and June typically offer average one-way fares of around $224.
- Most flight options: May and November have the highest number of flights from Birmingham to Washington, with approximately 17 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 35.1°F (1.7°C) | High | 13 | $243 |
| February | 38.3°F (3.5°C) | Average | 12 | $256 |
| March | 45.7°F (7.6°C) | High | 16 | $259 |
| April | 56.3°F (13.5°C) | High | 14 | $248 |
| May | 65.7°F (18.7°C) | Average | 17 | $209 |
| June | 74.3°F (23.5°C) | Average | 15 | $229 |
| July | 79.5°F (26.4°C) | Low | 14 | $237 |
| August | 77.4°F (25.2°C) | Low | 14 | $240 |
| September | 71.1°F (21.7°C) | Low | 14 | $219 |
| October | 59.9°F (15.5°C) | Average | 15 | $244 |
| November | 47.8°F (8.8°C) | Average | 17 | $250 |
| December | 40.6°F (4.8°C) | Average | 15 | $225 |
*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 Birmingham (BHM) to Washington (DCA)
- Birmingham to Washington (BHM-IAD): Located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) serves as a key gateway. One-way economy fares for this journey generally fall between $130 and $515, influenced by the time of year and booking timing. Travelers can expect one-stop options predominantly featuring layovers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT). Delta and American Airlines are among the leading carriers for this route, and first-class service is also available.
How to find the best prices for flights from Birmingham (BHM) to Washington (DCA)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Birmingham to Washington 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures from 6 PM to 12 AM tend to offer lower prices, although morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally provides cheaper rates, while Friday 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Birmingham International Airport
Washington welcomes travelers from Birmingham with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Washington city center is approximately a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Washington efficiently:
- 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 from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Ronald Reagan Washington National 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, travelers will find National Airport Station, a metro station, just about 0.2 miles away on foot, while Alexandria Station, a train station, is located approximately 3.8 miles from the airport by car. For those heading to the waterfront, Washington Seaport, a seaport, is around 4.8 miles away by car.
Birmingham to Washington Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Birmingham to Washington
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 Birmingham to Washington are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Birmingham to Washington with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Birmingham to Washington
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Birmingham to Washington: 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 Birmingham to Washington
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 Birmingham to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $121 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 Birmingham to Washington 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 Birmingham to Washington 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $121 and cheap return flights $189 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $171 and $727, and roundtrip flights usually range from $372 to $1147. 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The cheapest month to fly from BHM to DCA is October 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
You can fly direct from BHM to DCA on American Airlines, with around 25 flights per week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Birmingham, AL (BHM) to Washington, DC (DCA), with return tickets starting from around $115. 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National), 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Birmingham, AL (BHM) to Washington, DC (DCA) 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 also offers the most daily flights from BHM to DCA, 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
There are approximately 4 nonstop flights per day from Birmingham Intl. (BHM) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Sort flights by "Departure (earliest)" on Expedia to find the earliest flight from BHM to DCA. To compare more early flights, use the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Birmingham, AL (BHM) to Washington, DC (DCA) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 31% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it lets you arrive in Washington, DC with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Flying nonstop from BHM to DCA takes around 2 hours, with the route covering approximately 653 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 4 hours longer than direct options. 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
You can fly first class between BHM and DCA. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How much is a business class flight from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Birmingham, AL (BHM) to Washington, DC (DCA) typically costs between $811 - $1,304. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $1,107 - $1,553. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) if you opt for a connecting flight.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington from Birmingham Intl. (BHM)?
When traveling from Birmingham Intl. (BHM) to Washington, you can fly into Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) before reaching Washington. 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) Washington 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 Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Birmingham, AL (BHM-Birmingham Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 | Birmingham International Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport |
Distance | 652 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $189 |
Average flight time | 2 hours 20 mins |