$159 Cheap Flights from Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA)

View $159 flight on Fri, Apr 10, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

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Cheap Flights from Columbia to Washington (CAE-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $159 for one-way flights and $229 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Sat, May 23 - Wed, May 27
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$229 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$229
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, May 23 from Columbia to Washington, returning Wed, May 27, priced at $229 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, May 22 - Thu, May 28
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$229 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$229
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, May 22 from Columbia to Washington, returning Thu, May 28, priced at $229 found 4 days ago
Delta
Fri, Jun 5 - Mon, Jun 8
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$237 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$237
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Jun 5 from Columbia to Washington, returning Mon, Jun 8, priced at $237 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Thu, Apr 2 - Sat, Apr 4
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$244 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$244
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Apr 2 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sat, Apr 4, priced at $244 found 3 hours ago
American Airlines
Thu, Apr 16 - Sun, Apr 19
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$254 Roundtrip, just found
$254
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Apr 16 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Apr 19, priced at $254 just found
American Airlines
Fri, Mar 27 - Sun, Mar 29
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$259 Roundtrip, found 17 hours ago
$259
Roundtrip
found 17 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Mar 27 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Mar 29, priced at $259 found 17 hours ago
Delta
Fri, Apr 24 - Tue, Apr 28
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$262 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$262
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Apr 24 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Apr 28, priced at $262 found 5 days ago
Delta
Tue, Mar 24 - Tue, Mar 31
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$264 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$264
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Mar 24 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Mar 31, priced at $264 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 25
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$267 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$267
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $267 found 1 hour ago
United
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 25
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$425 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$425
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $425 found 1 hour ago

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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 $509
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $509
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $342
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $342

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA)

September is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $189 - $427 per traveler.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $159 and cheap return flights from $229 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $219 and $633, and return flights often range between $294 and $911. 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The cheapest month to fly from CAE to DCA is May 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
American Airlines operates around 22 direct flights from CAE to DCA every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), with round-trip tickets starting from around $168. 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Columbia, SC (CAE) 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 CAE 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
There are approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) typically leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in April, allowing you to make the most of your day 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Columbia (CAE) to Washington, DC (DCA) are in the afternoon, from 3pm to 6pm. About 22% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to travel after a busy day in Columbia.
How long does it take to fly from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Direct flights from CAE to DCA usually take about 1 hour 50 minutes, traveling roughly 408 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class seats are offered on the CAE to DCA route. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia Metropolitan (CAE)?
When traveling from Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) to Washington, you can fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Philadelphia Intl. (PHL) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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
Columbia Metropolitan
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$228
Distance
407 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 44 mins

Book with confidence

Columbia to Washington Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Columbia to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Columbia 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 Columbia 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 Columbia to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $159 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 Columbia 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 Columbia 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.

 

Columbia to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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*Available to One Key members.