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$274 Cheap Flights from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Columbia (CAE)

View $274 flight on Sat, Feb 20, 2027Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

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Cheap Flights from Cedar Rapids to Columbia (CID-CAE)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $274 for one-way flights and $319 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Wed, Oct 28 - Sun, Nov 1
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$319 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$319
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 28 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sun, Nov 1, priced at $319 found 7 hours ago
American Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$321 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$321
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $321 found 6 days ago
United
Wed, Sep 30 - Sat, Oct 3
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$324 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$324
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Sep 30 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $324 found 6 days ago
United
Wed, Nov 11 - Sat, Nov 14
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$329 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$329
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Nov 11 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Nov 14, priced at $329 found 6 days ago
Delta
Wed, Dec 2 - Mon, Dec 7
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$339 Roundtrip, found 16 hours ago
$339
Roundtrip
found 16 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Dec 2 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Mon, Dec 7, priced at $339 found 16 hours ago
United
Wed, Sep 30 - Sat, Oct 3
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$339 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$339
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Sep 30 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $339 found 6 days ago
Delta
Wed, Sep 16 - Sat, Sep 19
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$349 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$349
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Sep 16 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Sep 19, priced at $349 found 4 days ago
Delta
Wed, Jan 6 - Sun, Jan 10
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$354 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$354
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Jan 6 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sun, Jan 10, priced at $354 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Sep 16 - Sat, Sep 19
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$354 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$354
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Sep 16 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Sep 19, priced at $354 found 4 days ago
United
Tue, Jan 5 - Sat, Jan 9
CID
Cedar Rapids
CAE
Columbia
$359 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$359
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Jan 5 from Cedar Rapids to Columbia, returning Sat, Jan 9, priced at $359 found 1 day ago

Alternative airports near Columbia

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

Select flight to Columbia Metropolitan CAE. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 12 minutes. Flights from $642
CAE
Columbia Metropolitan
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center12 min
Flights from $642

What you need to know for your flight from Eastern Iowa to Columbia Metropolitan

Cedar Rapids (CID) to Columbia (CAE) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Columbia (CAE) on this convenient domestic short-haul route. You can compare options from full-service carriers to discover the itinerary that best suits your budget and travel plans while you visit Columbia's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Get all the essential details for your journey from Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 2 hours layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 800 miles (1,290 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$365, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

According to recent traveler bookings, the most popular airlines flying from Cedar Rapids to Columbia typically offer one-stop services, with common layovers at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) for about 2 hours and 15 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) for around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. These options provide you with the flexibility to mix and match prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to create the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, with one-way fares generally falling between $125 and $380. It represents around 66% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, and a total travel time of about 5 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
  • Delta: Known for its full-service offerings, Delta provides one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices typically ranging from $125 to $490. It makes up approximately 18% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 45 minutes and a total journey time of roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes, including the layover.
  • United: As a full-service airline, United also offers one-stop routes, with one-way fares generally between $150 and $410. This carrier accounts for about 16% of the departures on this route, maintaining an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.

Travelers flying from Cedar Rapids to Columbia have the option to upgrade their experience, as American Airlines provides first-class service on this route.

Alternative route from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Columbia (CAE)

  • Waterloo to Columbia (ALO-CAE): Located approximately 58 miles from Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) serves as an alternative departure point.

How to find the best prices for flights from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Columbia (CAE)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Cedar Rapids 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 typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 am and 12 pm tend to offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times, while flying on Thursday provides both affordable rates and is the preferred 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 Eastern Iowa Airport

Columbia welcomes travelers from Cedar Rapids 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $274 and cheap return flights from $319 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $223 and $716, and roundtrip flights usually range from $322 to $948. 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
October is the cheapest month to fly from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Columbia (CAE), with average return fares around $248. This price is about 38% lower than the average throughout the year, as demand tends to be lower in the fall. Other affordable months to consider are January and December.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Enter CID to CAE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID) to Columbia, SC (CAE), with round-trip tickets starting from around $248 with a layover in O'Hare Intl. (ORD). 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The best time to fly from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID) to Columbia, SC (CAE) is typically in October or December. During these months, you can find return flights at around $248, making them the cheapest months to travel. October offers pleasant fall weather, while December can be festive with holiday events, providing a great balance of price and experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from Cedar Rapids, IA (Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (Columbia Metropolitan) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. An early flight allows you to maximize your time in Columbia. This service operates seasonally in October. 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Eastern Iowa (CID) to Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. This accounts for around 40% of total traffic. Major airlines like American Airlines and United Airlines operate flights during this window. Many travelers prefer this timing as it allows for a full day of activities upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
A flight from CID to CAE with a layover takes around 4 hours 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 795 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
You can fly first class between CID and CAE. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) 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 Eastern Iowa (CID)?
From Eastern Iowa (CID), you can fly into Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) and Columbia Regional (COU) in Columbia. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT) 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) 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 Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa) 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
Eastern Iowa
Destination airport
Columbia Metropolitan
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$318
Distance
794 mi

Book with confidence

Cedar Rapids to Columbia Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Cedar Rapids to Columbia

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids to Columbia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $274 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 Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids 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.

 

Cedar Rapids to Columbia Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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