Cheap Flights from Columbus to Pittsburgh (CMH-PIT)
Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $142 for one-way flights and $299 for roundtrip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT)
February is typically the cheapest month to flyFebruary is typically the cheapest month to fly
From $264 - $593 per traveler.
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Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT) at a glance
Travel from Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT) with a selection of airlines on this popular domestic short-haul route. You can explore options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to find the best fit for your budget and schedule. Whether you're searching for a cheap ticket from Columbus or planning your trip from Columbus to Pittsburgh, this comprehensive guide will provide you with essential flight details from John Glenn Columbus International Airport to Pittsburgh International Airport.
Fastest flight duration: around 2h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
Route distance: roughly 150 miles (240 km)
Flights per week: around 7 departures on average
Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $105–$390, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for routes from Columbus to Pittsburgh, particularly for their one-stop services. Popular layover options include Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with about a 1-hour layover, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) also around 1 hour, and Midway International Airport (MDW) with a similar layover time. This variety allows travelers to customize their journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best itinerary.
Delta: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $105 and $385. Delta is responsible for about 43% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of around 3 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
United: Offering one-stop service, United is another full-service carrier with one-way fares typically ranging from $170 to $390. It accounts for approximately 34% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and a total journey duration of about 3 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in the layover.
Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest provides one-stop services with one-way fares usually between $125 and $410. It comprises around 23% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 2 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel period of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
Alternative routes from Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT)
Columbus to Pittsburgh (OSU-PIT): Ohio State University Airport (OSU) is located approximately 11 miles from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH).
Columbus to Pittsburgh (LCK-PIT): Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) can be found around 13 miles away from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH).
How to find the best prices for flights from Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbus to Pittsburgh is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
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 between 5 AM and 12 PM often provide lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Thursday offers both cheaper rates and is the most favored travel day.
Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
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.
Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
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 Pittsburgh International Airport from John Glenn Columbus International Airport
Pittsburgh welcomes travelers from Columbus with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Pittsburgh efficiently:
Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Pittsburgh, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
Columbus to Pittsburgh Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Columbus to Pittsburgh
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 Columbus to Pittsburgh are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Columbus to Pittsburgh with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Columbus to Pittsburgh
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Columbus to Pittsburgh: 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 Columbus to Pittsburgh
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 Columbus to Pittsburgh in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $142 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 Columbus to Pittsburgh 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 Columbus to Pittsburgh 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $142 and cheap return flights $299 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $162 and $859, and return flights often range between $435 and $1172. 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from CMH to PIT 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
Enter CMH to PIT 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
Southwest is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT), with round-trip tickets starting from around $585. 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
The earliest flight from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This early flight can help you make the most of your time in Pittsburgh. This service operates seasonally in February. 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Columbus (CMH) to Pittsburgh (PIT) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Airlines like Southwest Airlines and United Airlines operate flights during this period. This timing is favored because it allows travelers to maximize their time in Pittsburgh.
How long does it take to fly from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
Flying from CMH to PIT with a connection usually takes about 6 hours, traveling roughly 143 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from CMH to PIT. First class cabins are available on:
United Airlines
American Airlines
Delta Air Lines
How do I earn miles on a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh from John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH)?
From John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), you can fly into Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT) to reach Pittsburgh. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) before reaching Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) Pittsburgh 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.)?
If you booked your Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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. Airport
Destination airport
Pittsburgh Intl. Airport
Distance
142 miles away
Airlines serving
Delta, United, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Breeze Airways