$145 Cheap Flights from Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA)

View $145 flight on Wed, Jul 1, 2026Opens in a new window

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

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Columbia to Washington (CAE-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $145 for one-way flights and $249 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Fri, Nov 13 - Sun, Nov 15
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$249 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$249
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Nov 15, priced at $249 found 1 hour ago
American Airlines
Tue, Jun 30 - Tue, Jul 7
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$259 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$259
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jun 30 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Jul 7, priced at $259 found 1 hour ago
American Airlines
Sat, Jul 18 - Tue, Jul 21
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$263 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$263
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Jul 18 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Jul 21, priced at $263 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Nov 13 - Sun, Nov 15
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$264 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$264
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Nov 15, priced at $264 found 1 hour ago
Delta
Sat, Nov 21 - Sun, Nov 22
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$269 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$269
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Nov 21 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Nov 22, priced at $269 found 1 hour ago
American Airlines
Sat, Jul 18 - Tue, Jul 21
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$273 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$273
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Jul 18 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Jul 21, priced at $273 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Wed, Jul 1 - Mon, Jul 6
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$274 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$274
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Jul 1 from Columbia to Washington, returning Mon, Jul 6, priced at $274 found 1 hour ago
American Airlines
Thu, Jun 18 - Tue, Jun 23
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$278 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$278
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Jun 18 from Columbia to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 23, priced at $278 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Jun 19 - Sun, Jun 21
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$279 Roundtrip, just found
$279
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Jun 19 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Jun 21, priced at $279 just found
United
Sat, Nov 21 - Sun, Nov 22
CAE
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$412 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$412
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Nov 21 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Nov 22, priced at $412 found 1 hour 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. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 40 minutes. Flights from $479
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $479
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $667
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $667

What you need to know for your flight from Columbia Metropolitan to Ronald Reagan Washington National

Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA) at a glance

Travel from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) with a range of airlines offering one-way flights. Compare your options to find the best itinerary that suits your budget and travel plans as you prepare to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of Washington, D.C. Whether you're seeking a cheap ticket from CAE or looking for convenient schedules, you'll have plenty of choices for your journey from Columbia to Washington.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $95–$350, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

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

Recent traveler bookings reveal the most popular airlines flying from Columbia to Washington, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Many prefer connecting flights with layovers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) for around 1 hour, and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to explore different combinations of price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: As a comprehensive airline, it provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $95 and $360. This carrier is responsible for around 95% of departures on this route, with a standard non-stop flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: This full-service airline offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically ranging from $110 to $400. Delta accounts for about 5% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.

Travelers flying from Columbia to Washington can opt to enhance their experience with an upgrade. American Airlines provides first class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Columbia 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 time to visit with temperatures around 77.4°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $159). Flight availability peaks in September, with approximately 17 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: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $159, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: June, September, and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $166.
  • Most flight options: September has the highest number of flights from Columbia to Washington, 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
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Average11$210
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Moderately High12$182
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Moderately High12$194
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Moderately High13$201
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Average13$170
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Average13$161
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderately Low13$176
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Moderately Low15$159
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Average17$170
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Average14$174
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Moderately Low14$172
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Average12$194

*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 Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA)

  • Columbia to Washington (CAE-IAD): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy ticket prices on this route generally fall between $95 and $360, influenced by the time of year and when you book. Travelers can typically choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines operating on this route include United and Delta. Additionally, first-class service is offered on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Columbia (CAE) to Washington (DCA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbia 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 aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Departures in the morning, between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., tend to be the most affordable and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Friday not only offers lower prices but is also 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 Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Washington welcomes travelers from Columbia with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Columbia Metropolitan Airport is roughly a 15-minute drive (covering about 8 miles) from central Columbia. 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. Additionally, Washington Seaport, a seaport, is situated around 4.8 miles away by car, providing various travel options for your journey.

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 $145 and cheap return flights from $249 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 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 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
Roundtrip price
$249
Distance
407 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 38 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 November. 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 $145 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.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia