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$135 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Madison (MSN)

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Madison (DCA-MSN)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $135 for one-way flights and $323 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
American Airlines
Delta
American Airlines
United
American Airlines
United
United
United

Alternative airports near Madison

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 Dane County Regional

Washington (DCA) to Madison (MSN) at a glance

Travel from Washington (DCA) to Madison (MSN) with a range of airlines offering convenient options on this domestic short-haul route. You can compare various flights from Washington to Madison, including choices from both full-service and low-cost carriers, to discover an itinerary that suits your budget and travel schedule. Get ready to explore Madison's iconic attractions and neighborhoods while you find essential details about your flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to Dane County Regional Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$480, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Washington to Madison are favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Many travelers opt for convenient layovers at O'Hare International Airport (ORD, about 1-hour layover), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW, roughly 55 minutes), and Denver International Airport (DEN, around 50 minutes). These choices allow you to tailor your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class to find the best option for your journey.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $130 and $450. It represents around 58% of departures on this route, and the average non-stop flight duration is 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta offers non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way fares typically ranging from $125 to $535. It accounts for roughly 36% of departures on this route, featuring a standard non-stop flight time of 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • United: Operating as a full-service carrier, United provides one-stop flights with one-way fares generally between $155 and $515. It makes up about 5% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of roughly 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Frontier offers one-stop service, with one-way fares typically ranging from $125 to $200. It accounts for about 2% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in a layover.

Travelers flying from Washington to Madison can opt for flight upgrades. Delta provides first class and premium economy class, while American Airlines offers first class service.

Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Madison (MSN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Madison are April, July, and October, when peak temperatures in Madison reach up to 71.6°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 26.6°F. For better deals, August and September usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $241. Flight availability peaks in October and November, with approximately 17 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and June have the fewest flights, with approximately 11 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August and September usually offer good deals with average one-way fares around $241, roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: July and October typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $246 to $263.
  • Most flight options: October and November have the highest number of flights from Washington to Madison, with approximately 17 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January18.7°F (-7.4°C)Average11$280
February20.7°F (-6.3°C)Average12$264
March34.7°F (1.5°C)Average12$280
April45.3°F (7.4°C)Moderately High13$282
May57.9°F (14.4°C)Moderately Low14$288
June67.6°F (19.8°C)Moderately Low11$269
July71.6°F (22.0°C)Moderately High15$246
August69.8°F (21.0°C)Average14$241
September62.8°F (17.1°C)Average13$241
October50.0°F (10.0°C)Moderately High17$263
November37.0°F (2.8°C)Average17$267
December26.6°F (-3.0°C)Moderately Low14$267

*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 Madison (MSN)

  • Washington to Madison (IAD-MSN): Located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) serves as a key departure point for this route. One-way economy ticket prices typically fall between $130 and $540, influenced by the season and the timing of your booking. Most flights on this route are one-stop options, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). United and Delta are the leading airlines operating this route, and first-class service is also offered.

How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Madison (MSN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington to Madison 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Departures in the evening (6 PM-12 AM) often offer lower prices, even though afternoon (12 PM-6 PM) flights are more popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally provides cheaper rates, while Friday remains the most favored 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 Dane County Regional Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Madison 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 Madison efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Madison, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Dane County Regional Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Dane County Regional 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 Dane County Regional Airport, travelers can easily reach Madison Station (a train station), located about 7.2 miles away by car, and Madison Dutch Mill Park and Ride (a bus station), which is approximately 9.2 miles away by car, providing convenient public transport options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $135 and cheap return flights from $323 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $165 to $623, and return flights typically cost between $357 and $1106. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
The cheapest month to fly from DCA to MSN is June 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from DCA to MSN:

  • American Airlines operates around 23 direct flights from DCA to MSN every week
  • Delta operates around 7 direct flights from DCA to MSN every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
Delta is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional), with round-trip tickets starting from around $238.96. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional), 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Madison, WI (MSN) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Delta offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Delta typically offers the lowest fares. United offers the most daily flights from DCA to MSN, 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
You can find approximately 4 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Dane County Regional (MSN). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
The earliest flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) usually departs at around 5:00 AM. This seasonal service is available in April, May, and June, giving you an early start to your trip to Madison. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Madison, WI (MSN) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta, United and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored because it allows you to arrive in Madison early, giving you a full day to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
Direct flights from DCA to MSN usually take about 2 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 706 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 20 minutes to your journey. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
First class is available on flights from DCA to MSN. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Washington, DC (DCA) to Madison, WI (MSN) typically costs between $1,388 - $1,742. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
If you're planning to travel to Madison from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into Dane County Regional (MSN) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Logan Intl. (BOS), Liberty Intl. (EWR), Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) before reaching Madison. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) Madison 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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
Dane County Regional
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$323
Distance
705 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 21 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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