$239 Cheap Flights from Madison (MSN) to Washington (DCA)

View $239 flight on Tue, Aug 18, 2026Opens in a new window

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

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Cheap Flights from Madison to Washington (MSN-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $239 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
Tue, Jul 7 - Mon, Jul 13
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$323 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$323
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jul 7 from Madison to Washington, returning Mon, Jul 13, priced at $323 found 6 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Jul 2 - Mon, Jul 13
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$328 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$328
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Jul 2 from Madison to Washington, returning Mon, Jul 13, priced at $328 found 6 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Sun, Jun 28 - Tue, Jun 30
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$349 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$349
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sun, Jun 28 from Madison to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 30, priced at $349 found 6 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Tue, Jul 7 - Tue, Jul 14
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$368 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$368
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jul 7 from Madison to Washington, returning Tue, Jul 14, priced at $368 found 6 days ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 25
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$373 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$373
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Madison to Washington, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $373 found 5 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Jul 2 - Sun, Jul 12
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$378 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$378
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Jul 2 from Madison to Washington, returning Sun, Jul 12, priced at $378 found 6 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Aug 8 - Sat, Aug 15
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$385 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$385
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 8 from Madison to Washington, returning Sat, Aug 15, priced at $385 found 3 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Tue, Jul 7 - Sat, Jul 11
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$389 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$389
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jul 7 from Madison to Washington, returning Sat, Jul 11, priced at $389 found 6 days ago
Delta
Sat, Aug 8 - Sat, Aug 15
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$405 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$405
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Aug 8 from Madison to Washington, returning Sat, Aug 15, priced at $405 found 3 hours ago
United
Sat, Aug 8 - Sat, Aug 15
MSN
Madison
DCA
Washington
$405 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$405
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Aug 8 from Madison to Washington, returning Sat, Aug 15, priced at $405 found 3 hours ago

Alternative airports near Washington

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

Select flight to Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall BWI. Average driving time to city center is 40 minutes. Flights from $727
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $727
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $897
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $897

What you need to know for your flight from Dane County Regional to Ronald Reagan Washington National

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

Travel between Madison (MSN) and Washington (DCA) with a range of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're looking for the cheapest flights from Madison or more comprehensive services, you'll have options from both low-cost and full-service carriers to suit your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit to Washington's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, check the essential details for flights from Dane County Regional Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$470, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

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

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Madison to Washington are favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover options include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with an approximate 1-hour layover, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) featuring around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) offering about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This variety allows you to customize your trip by considering price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $130 and $470. It operates about 70% of flights on this route, offering a typical non-stop flight duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Delta: Another full-service airline, Delta offers non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually ranging from $130 to $505. This carrier accounts for around 24% of departures on this route, with non-stop travel time also averaging 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • United: Focused on one-stop service, United Airlines presents one-way fares typically between $140 and $625. It covers about 5% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, resulting in a total journey duration of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time.

Travelers can opt to upgrade their flight from Madison to Washington, with American Airlines offering first class and Delta providing both first class and premium economy service.

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

The most popular months for travelers flying from Madison to Washington are March, April, and October, when peak temperatures in Washington reach up to 59.9°F in October. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 40.6°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $214. Flight availability peaks in October and November, with approximately 19 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 11 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $214, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $223.
  • Most flight options: October and November have the highest number of flights from Madison to Washington, with approximately 19 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Average11$263
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Average13$268
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Moderately High17$293
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Moderately High14$256
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Moderately Low17$265
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Moderately Low12$248
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Average16$240
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Average16$221
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Average17$214
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Moderately High19$225
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Average19$246
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Moderately Low17$237

*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 Madison (MSN) to Washington (DCA)

  • Madison to Washington (MSN-IAD): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) lies approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy ticket prices for this journey generally fall between $140 and $510, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Flights on this route are predominantly one-stop, with common layover points including O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Major airlines servicing this route include United and Delta. Additionally, first class seating is offered for travelers seeking a premium experience.

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

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Madison to Washington 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 found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures between 12 PM and 6 PM tend to be less expensive and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday often 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Dane County Regional Airport

Washington welcomes travelers from Madison 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, National Airport Station (a metro station) is located about 0.2 miles away on foot, while Alexandria Station (a train station) is approximately 3.8 miles from the airport and typically reached by car. Additionally, Washington Seaport (a seaport) is situated about 4.8 miles away by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $239 and cheap return flights from $323 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $174 and $666, and roundtrip flights usually range from $337 to $1031. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The cheapest month to fly from MSN to DCA is July 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from MSN to DCA:

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

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Madison (MSN) to Washington, DC (DCA), with round-trip tickets starting from around $239. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Madison, WI (MSN) 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. United offers the most daily flights from MSN 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
On average, there are around 4 nonstop flights per day from Dane County Regional (MSN) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Dane County Regional (MSN) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) usually departs at around 5:00 AM. Operated by American Airlines, this seasonal service allows you to begin your day early in Washington, DC. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 32% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, American Airlines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Washington, DC with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A nonstop flight from MSN to DCA typically takes around 2 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 706 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 4 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class is available on flights from MSN to DCA. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Madison, WI (MSN) to Washington, DC (DCA) typically costs between $935 - $1,245. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Dane County Regional (MSN)?
When traveling from Dane County Regional (MSN) 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), Liberty Intl. (EWR), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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
Dane County Regional
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$323
Distance
705 mi
Average flight time
3 hours 10 mins

Book with confidence

Madison to Washington Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Madison 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 Madison to Washington are during the month of July. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Madison to Washington with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Madison to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $239 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 Madison 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 Madison 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.

 

Madison to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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