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$264 Cheap Flights from Columbia (CAE) to Harrisburg (MDT)

Popular airlines from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Harrisburg Intl. Airport (MDT)

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Cheap Flights from Columbia to Harrisburg (CAE-MDT)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $264 for one-way flights and $299 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Delta
United
United
American Airlines
United
Delta
American Airlines
United
American Airlines

What you need to know for your flight from Columbia Metropolitan to Harrisburg Intl.

Columbia (CAE) to Harrisburg (MDT) at a glance

Travel between Columbia (CAE) and Harrisburg (MDT) with a selection of airlines offering convenient options on this domestic short-haul route. Explore the various Columbia to Harrisburg flights available, comparing full-service carriers to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit to Harrisburg's renowned attractions and neighborhoods, be sure to check the key details for flights from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Harrisburg International Airport (MDT).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$420, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Columbia to Harrisburg, often selected for their one-stop services. Common layover points include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) also with a 1 hour and 15-minute layover, and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), which offers a layover of around 1 hour. These options allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the best itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This renowned full-service airline provides convenient one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $120 and $495. It dominates the route with about 62% of departures, offering a flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of around 4 hours, including layovers.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta features one-stop service with one-way fares usually ranging from $115 to $395. It represents approximately 19% of departures on this route, providing an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of about 4 hours, including layover times.
  • United: United Airlines, a full-service carrier, also offers one-stop service, with one-way fares typically between $130 and $400. It accounts for around 19% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey duration of roughly 4 hours, factoring in layovers.

Alternative routes from Columbia (CAE) to Harrisburg (MDT)

  • Columbia to Harrisburg (CAE-HAR): Capital City Airport (HAR) is located approximately 5 miles from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT).
  • Columbia to Lancaster (CAE-LNS): Lancaster Airport (LNS) is about 25 miles from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT).
  • Columbia to Reading (CAE-RDG): Reading Regional Airport (RDG) is situated roughly 44 miles away from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT).

How to find the best prices for flights from Columbia (CAE) to Harrisburg (MDT)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbia to Harrisburg 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 available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Morning departures, from 5 am to 12 pm, often offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Wednesday provides both cheaper rates and is the most favored 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 Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg International Airport from Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Harrisburg 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. Harrisburg city center is approximately a 15-minute drive (covering about 12 miles) from Harrisburg International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Harrisburg efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Harrisburg, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Harrisburg International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Harrisburg International 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 Harrisburg International Airport, Middletown Station, a train station, is located about 1.8 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers heading into the region.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $264 and cheap return flights from $299 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $218 and $570, and roundtrip flights usually range from $335 to $929. 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from CAE to MDT is October 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
Enter CAE to MDT and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.), 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Columbia (CAE) to Harrisburg (MDT) typically departs at around 5:05 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in November and December, allowing you to start your journey early and enjoy more time in Harrisburg. 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) are in the late morning, from 9am to 12pm. About 30% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to travel after the morning rush and arrive in Harrisburg with time to spare.
How long does it take to fly from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
Flights from CAE to MDT with one stop typically take around 4 hours, covering approximately 494 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from CAE to MDT. 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) 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 Harrisburg from Columbia Metropolitan (CAE)?
From Columbia Metropolitan (CAE), you can fly into Harrisburg Intl. (MDT) to reach Harrisburg. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT) before reaching Harrisburg. 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) 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 Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) 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 Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)?
If you booked your Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) to Harrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.) 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
Harrisburg Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$298
Distance
494 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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