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$261 Cheap Flights from Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE)

Cheap Flights from Austin to Columbia (AUS-CAE)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $261 for one-way flights and $369 for roundtrip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Alternative airports near Columbia

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

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Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE) at a glance

Travel from Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE) with a range of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Discover cheap flights from Austin and compare options among full-service carriers to find the itinerary that best suits your budget and schedule. As you prepare to explore Columbia's renowned sights and neighborhoods, gather essential information for flights departing from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,000 miles (1,610 km)
  • Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$440, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for one-stop flights from Austin to Columbia. Popular layover options include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), with a layover of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), also around 1 hour and 30 minutes. These choices allow you to tailor your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • Delta: As a comprehensive service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way prices generally between $130 and $415. It comprises around 55% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of about 5 hours, including layovers.
  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop options, with one-way fares usually falling between $130 and $460. American Airlines accounts for roughly 36% of departures on this route, boasting an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, alongside an overall journey time of approximately 5 hours, including layovers.
  • United: Offering one-stop services, United's one-way ticket prices typically range from $155 to $590. It represents about 9% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and a complete journey time of around 5 hours, including layovers.

Best time to fly from Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Austin to Columbia are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Columbia reach up to 82.2°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 55°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $215. Flight availability peaks in February, with approximately 12 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 $215, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: June, July, and February typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $218 to $229.
  • Most flight options: February has the highest number of flights from Austin to Columbia, with approximately 12 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
MonthTemperatureDemandWeekly FlightsAverage one-way Fare
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Average11$263
February49.8°F (9.9°C)Average12$229
March55.9°F (13.3°C)High11$284
April63.9°F (17.7°C)High11$268
May71.8°F (22.1°C)Average11$215
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Average10$218
July82.2°F (27.9°C)High11$223
August80.6°F (27.0°C)Average10$243
September75.6°F (24.2°C)Average11$234
October65.7°F (18.7°C)Low10$247
November55.0°F (12.8°C)Low8$246
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Low10$280

*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 Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE)

  • San Antonio to Columbia (SAT-CAE): San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is located approximately 67 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). One-way economy prices for this route generally fall between $130 and $435, influenced by the season and how far in advance you book. This route typically offers both one-stop and multi-stop flights, with common layover points at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT). Major airlines operating on this route include Delta and American Airlines. Additionally, first-class service is available for travelers seeking a more premium experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Austin to Columbia 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. Evening departures (6 PM-12 AM) often offer lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday tends to be cheaper, even though Friday is 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.* Find Columbia hotel and flight deals.
  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 Columbia Metropolitan Airport from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Columbia welcomes travelers from Austin with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Columbia city center is approximately a 15-minute drive (covering about 8 miles) from Columbia Metropolitan Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Columbia efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Columbia, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Columbia Metropolitan Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Columbia Metropolitan 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 Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Columbia Station, a train station, is located about 7.9 miles from the airport and is typically reached by car.

Austin to Columbia Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Austin to Columbia

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 Austin to Columbia are during the month of January. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Austin to Columbia with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

The best time to book a flight from Austin to Columbia

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Austin to Columbia: 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 Austin to Columbia

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 Austin to Columbia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $261 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 Austin to Columbia 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 Austin to Columbia 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) cost?

You can find cheap one-way flights from $261 and cheap return flights $369 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $208 and $754, and roundtrip flights usually range from $387 to $1206. 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

The cheapest month to fly from AUS to CAE is January 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

Enter AUS to CAE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Austin, TX (AUS) to Columbia, SC (CAE), starting from around $193. 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

To find a cheap flight from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan), 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

The earliest flight from Austin, TX (AUS) to Columbia, SC (CAE) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in May, giving you an early start to your travels. 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

The most popular departure times for flights from Austin (AUS) to Columbia (CAE) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta and United, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to maximize your time in Austin before your flight.

How long does it take to fly from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

Flying from AUS to CAE with a connection usually takes about 5 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 1,001 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

You can fly first class between AUS and CAE. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. (AUS)?

When traveling from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. (AUS) to Columbia, you can fly into Columbia Regional (COU) and Columbia Metropolitan (CAE). Some flights may connect through major hubs like George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW) before reaching Columbia. 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?

If you booked your Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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
Austin-Bergstrom Intl. Airport
Destination airport
Columbia Metropolitan Airport
Distance
1,001 miles away
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Popular airline
American Airlines
Roundtrip price
$369
*Available to One Key members.