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$138 Cheap Flights from Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP)

Popular airlines from John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH) to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP)

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Cheap Flights from Columbus to Panama City (CMH-ECP)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $138 for one-way flights and $275 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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

Alternative airports near Panama City

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

What you need to know for your flight from John Glenn Columbus Intl. to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.

Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP) at a glance

Explore a range of options for flights from Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP) on this convenient domestic short-haul route. Whether you're looking for the lowest fares from Columbus or prefer full-service airlines, you can easily compare itineraries that align with your budget and travel plans. With multiple weekly flights connecting John Glenn Columbus International Airport to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing all that Panama City has to offer.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
  • Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$375, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)

Explore the top airlines flying from Columbus to Panama City, favored for both non-stop and one-stop journeys. Common layovers include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Nashville International Airport (BNA) with a shorter layover of approximately 55 minutes. These options allow you to balance price, overall travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal itinerary for your trip.

  • Delta: This full-service airline provides a seamless one-stop travel experience, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $120 and $365. Delta handles roughly 47% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and an overall travel time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service option, American Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $130 to $400. It represents around 28% of departures for this route, with a flight time of about 3 hours and a total journey duration of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in layovers.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest Airlines provides both non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way fares generally priced between $120 and $355. It accounts for nearly 21% of departures on this route, featuring a typical in-flight time of 3 hours and a total travel duration of about 4 hours and 15 minutes.
  • United: This full-service airline offers one-stop services, with one-way fares usually ranging from $120 to $355. United makes up approximately 4% of departures on this route, boasting an in-flight time of 3 hours and a comprehensive journey lasting around 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover periods.

Travelers flying from Columbus to Panama City can opt for an upgrade, as American Airlines provides first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Columbus to Panama City are March, April, and June, when peak temperatures in Panama City reach up to 81.1°F in June. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 62.4°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $166. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: October usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $166, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $180.
  • Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Columbus to Panama City, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January54.1°F (12.3°C)Low7$199
February57.9°F (14.4°C)Average9$204
March62.8°F (17.1°C)High13$244
April68.4°F (20.2°C)High10$225
May75.0°F (23.9°C)Average12$195
June81.1°F (27.3°C)High11$213
July82.6°F (28.1°C)Average13$206
August82.8°F (28.2°C)Average14$196
September79.5°F (26.4°C)Average13$180
October72.0°F (22.2°C)Average10$166
November62.4°F (16.9°C)Low9$191
December58.1°F (14.5°C)Low9$259

*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 Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP)

  • Columbus to Fort Walton Beach (CMH-VPS): Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) is located approximately 46 miles from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP). On this route, one-way economy fares usually fall between $105 and $350, influenced by the season and how early you book. Travelers can typically choose a one-stop flight option, 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, with business and first-class service also available.

How to find the best prices for flights from Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbus to Panama City 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 by booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures (12pm-6pm) often offer lower prices, although morning flights (5am-12pm) remain the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday typically provides cheaper options, while Saturday 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.*
  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 Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport from John Glenn Columbus International Airport

Panama City welcomes travelers from Columbus with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Panama City efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Panama City, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Northwest Florida Beaches 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $138 and cheap return flights from $275 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $157 and $518, and return flights often range between $325 and $1072. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP), with average round-trip fares around $324. This is about 15% lower than the average price throughout the year, as January typically sees a dip in travel demand. Other economical months to consider are August and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
Enter CMH to ECP and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Columbus, OH (CMH) to Panama City, FL (ECP), with round-trip tickets starting from around $397. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The ideal months to fly from Columbus (CMH) to Panama City (ECP) are January and September. Return flights in January average around $324, making it a cost-effective choice right after the holiday rush. September also offers good prices and a chance to enjoy the beach as summer winds down.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
There are approximately 1 nonstop flights per day from John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. (ECP). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The earliest flight from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in March, allowing you to enjoy a full day at the beach upon arrival. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Columbus, OH (CMH) to Panama City, FL (ECP) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 47% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and maximize your time at your destination.
How long does it take to fly from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from CMH to ECP takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 686 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 3 hours 40 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from CMH to ECP. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Panama City from John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH)?
From John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), you can fly into Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. (ECP) and Tocumen Intl. (PTY) in Panama City. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), Midway Intl. (MDW) before reaching Panama City. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
If you booked your Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
Destination airport
Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$274
Distance
686 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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