$112 Cheap Flights from Albany (ALB) to Washington (DCA)
Popular airlines from Albany Intl. Airport (ALB) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
JetBlue AirwaysJetBlue Airways
UnitedUnited
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Cheap Flights from Albany to Washington (ALB-DCA)
Alternative airports near Washington
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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November is typically the cheapest month to flyNovember is typically the cheapest month to fly
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Albany (ALB) to Washington (DCA) at a glance
Experience a range of options for flights from Albany (ALB) to Washington (DCA) on this popular domestic short-haul route. Whether you're seeking full-service airlines or low-cost carriers, you can easily compare choices to find the best Albany to Washington airfare that aligns with your budget and travel schedule. Get ready to explore Washington's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods as you gather all the essential details for your journey from Albany International Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
- Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $90–$340, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Albany International Airport (ALB) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Explore the top airlines flying from Albany to Washington, favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Popular connecting options often include layovers at Midway International Airport (MDW), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), each with approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of downtime. These choices provide you the flexibility to consider various factors like price, total travel duration, and cabin class to help you craft the best travel itinerary.
- American Airlines: This major airline provides full-service options, featuring both non-stop and one-stop flights. One-way ticket prices generally fall between $90 and $350. It dominates this route, responsible for around 94% of departures, with a standard non-stop flight duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly airline, Southwest offers one-stop services, with one-way fares usually ranging from $90 to $380. It captures about 3% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 4 hours, resulting in an overall travel time of approximately 5 hours when accounting for layovers.
- Delta: Delta operates as a full-service airline providing one-stop journeys, with one-way fares typically between $105 and $360. It makes up roughly 2% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight time of 4 hours and a total journey duration of around 5 hours, including layover time.
Travelers flying from Albany to Washington can enhance their journey by upgrading to first class with American Airlines, providing an elevated level of service on this route.
Best time to fly from Albany (ALB) to Washington (DCA)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Albany to Washington are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Washington reach up to 56.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 77.4°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $158. Flight availability peaks in May and June, with approximately 17 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. December 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 $158, roughly 15% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $174.
- Most flight options: May and June have the highest number of flights from Albany 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) | Average | 13 | $177 |
| February | 38.3°F (3.5°C) | Moderately High | 13 | $217 |
| March | 45.7°F (7.6°C) | Moderately High | 15 | $188 |
| April | 56.3°F (13.5°C) | Moderately High | 16 | $209 |
| May | 65.7°F (18.7°C) | Average | 17 | $158 |
| June | 74.3°F (23.5°C) | Average | 17 | $195 |
| July | 79.5°F (26.4°C) | Average | 14 | $208 |
| August | 77.4°F (25.2°C) | Moderately Low | 15 | $174 |
| September | 71.1°F (21.7°C) | Moderately Low | 14 | $180 |
| October | 59.9°F (15.5°C) | Average | 16 | $186 |
| November | 47.8°F (8.8°C) | Average | 14 | $186 |
| December | 40.6°F (4.8°C) | Moderately Low | 12 | $181 |
*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 Albany (ALB) to Washington (DCA)
- Albany to Washington (ALB-IAD): Located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) serves as a key hub for travelers. One-way economy fares on this route generally vary between $95 and $370, influenced by the season and how early you make your booking. The route commonly features both non-stop and one-stop flight options, with United and Delta being the most frequently chosen airlines.
How to find the best prices for flights from Albany (ALB) to Washington (DCA)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Albany 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 available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures (5 am-12 pm) often provide lower prices, while afternoon flights (12 pm-6 pm) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday typically results in cheaper rates, although Friday remains the most traveled 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 Albany International Airport
Washington welcomes travelers from Albany with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Albany International Airport is roughly a 15-minute drive (covering about 9 miles) from central Albany. 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 by car. For those looking to reach the waterfront, Washington Seaport is situated about 4.8 miles away by car.
Albany to Washington Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Albany 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 Albany to Washington are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Albany to Washington with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Albany to Washington
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $112 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $112 and cheap return flights $176 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $142 and $743, and roundtrip flights usually range from $273 to $1752. 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The cheapest month to fly from ALB to DCA 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
American Airlines operates around 35 direct flights from ALB to DCA every week.
How do I find cheap flights from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Albany, NY (ALB) 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 ALB 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
You can find approximately 5 nonstop flights per day from Albany Intl. (ALB) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Albany International Airport (ALB) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in February and March, giving you the chance to start your day early and make the most of your time in Washington, DC. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
How long does it take to fly from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Direct flights from ALB to DCA usually take about 1 hour 50 minutes, traveling roughly 318 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours 10 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class seats are offered on the ALB to DCA route. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
How much is a business class flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Albany, NY (ALB) to Washington, DC (DCA) typically costs between $741 - $1,102. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $339 - $588. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany Intl. (ALB)?
From Albany Intl. (ALB), you can fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) in Washington. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI), Midway Intl. (MDW), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Albany, NY (ALB-Albany 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 | Albany Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport |
Distance | 317 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airways, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $176 |
Average flight time | 1 hour 38 mins |