A church with two tall spires and a snow-covered park in the foreground.

$180 Cheap Flights from Columbus (CMH) to Ottawa (YOW)

View $180 flight on Fri, Jan 8, 2027Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH) to Ottawa International Airport (YOW)

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Cheap Flights from Columbus to Ottawa (CMH-YOW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $180 for one-way flights and $378 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
Fri, Jan 8 - Sat, Jan 9
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$378 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$378
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Jan 8 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Sat, Jan 9, priced at $378 found 6 days ago
United
Tue, Dec 1 - Sat, Dec 5
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$381 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$381
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Sat, Dec 5, priced at $381 found 1 day ago
United
Fri, Aug 14 - Wed, Aug 19
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$395 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$395
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Aug 14 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Wed, Aug 19, priced at $395 found 5 days ago
United
Fri, Aug 28 - Sun, Aug 30
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$405 Roundtrip, found 16 hours ago
$405
Roundtrip
found 16 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $405 found 16 hours ago
Air Canada
Fri, Oct 2 - Tue, Oct 6
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$409 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$409
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Air Canada flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Tue, Oct 6, priced at $409 found 5 days ago
Air Canada
Fri, Sep 18 - Sun, Sep 20
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$411 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$411
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Air Canada flight, departing Fri, Sep 18 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Sun, Sep 20, priced at $411 found 2 days ago
United
Wed, Nov 25 - Sat, Nov 28
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$412 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$412
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Nov 25 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Sat, Nov 28, priced at $412 found 2 days ago
Air Canada
Mon, Sep 7 - Wed, Sep 9
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$414 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$414
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Air Canada flight, departing Mon, Sep 7 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $414 found 3 days ago
American Airlines
Tue, Dec 1 - Sat, Dec 5
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$684 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$684
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Sat, Dec 5, priced at $684 found 1 day ago
WestJet
Sat, Oct 17 - Tue, Oct 20
CMH
Columbus
YOW
Ottawa
$1,183 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$1,183
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select WestJet flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Columbus to Ottawa, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $1,183 found 4 days ago

Alternative airports near Ottawa

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

Select flight to Macdonald-Cartier Intl. YOW. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 15 minutes. Flights from $405
YOW
Macdonald-Cartier Intl.
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center15 min
Flights from $405

What you need to know for your flight from John Glenn Columbus Intl. to Macdonald-Cartier Intl.

Columbus (CMH) to Ottawa (YOW) at a glance

Explore a range of options for flights from Columbus (CMH) to Ottawa (YOW) on this international short-haul route. Whether you're looking for the cheapest flights from Columbus or prefer a full-service experience, you can easily compare itineraries to find the best fit for your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit to Ottawa's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods, check out the essential details for flights from John Glenn Columbus International Airport to Macdonald-Cartier International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (800 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $190–$555, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)

Recent traveler bookings reveal the most popular airlines for routes from Columbus to Ottawa, primarily favored for their one-stop services. Common layover points include Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) with a layover of about 50 minutes, Pearson International Airport (YYZ) at approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with a 1 hour and 45 minute layover. These options allow you to balance cost, total travel time, and cabin class for your ideal itinerary.

  • United: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, dominating the route with about 70% of departures. One-way fares generally range from $190 to $835, offering an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time of around 4 hours, including layover time.
  • Air Canada: Another full-service option, Air Canada covers roughly 30% of flights on this route. Its one-way fares typically fall between $220 and $520, with a flight time of 3 hours and a total journey duration of about 4 hours, factoring in the layover.

Alternative route from Columbus (CMH) to Ottawa (YOW)

  • Columbus to Gatineau (CMH-YND): Ottawa Executive Airport (YND) is located approximately 14 miles from Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW).

How to find the best prices for flights from Columbus (CMH) to Ottawa (YOW)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbus to Ottawa 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 (5 am-12 pm) tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally results in cheaper rates, although Thursday is the most sought-after 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 Macdonald-Cartier International Airport from John Glenn Columbus International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Ottawa, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Macdonald-Cartier International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Macdonald-Cartier 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 Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, several transport options are conveniently located nearby. Greenboro Station, a metro station, is about 3.6 miles from the airport by car, while Ottawa Fallowfield Station, a train station, is approximately 7 miles away by car. Additionally, Ottawa Seaport, a seaport, is around 9.2 miles from the airport and can also be reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $180 and cheap return flights from $378 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $155 to $897, and return flights typically cost between $442 and $2015. 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from CMH to YOW is January 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
Enter CMH to YOW 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
Air Canada is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) to Macdonald-Cartier Intl. (YOW), with round-trip tickets starting from around $339.48. 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
The earliest flight from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) typically departs at around 5:30 AM, operated by United Airlines. This seasonal service is active in March, allowing you to start your journey to Ottawa early. 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Columbus, OH (CMH) to Ottawa, ON (YOW) are in the late morning, from 9am to noon. About 44% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Air Canada, and Delta Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day in Columbus and arrive in Ottawa with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
Flying from CMH to YOW with a connection usually takes about 4 hours, traveling roughly 519 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
Business class seats are offered on the CMH to YOW route with Air Canada and United Airlines.First class is available with United Airlines and Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier 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 Ottawa from John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH)?
If you're planning to travel to Ottawa from John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), you can fly into Macdonald-Cartier Intl. (YOW) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW), LaGuardia (LGA), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) before reaching Ottawa. 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.) Ottawa 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 Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier Intl.)?
If you booked your Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) to Ottawa, ON (YOW-Macdonald-Cartier 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
Macdonald-Cartier Intl.
Airlines serving
Air Canada, American Airlines, United, WestJet
Roundtrip price
$378
Distance
519 mi

Book with confidence

Columbus to Ottawa Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Columbus to Ottawa

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 Ottawa are during the month of January. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Columbus to Ottawa with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Columbus to Ottawa

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Columbus to Ottawa: 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 Ottawa

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 Ottawa in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $180 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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.

 

Columbus to Ottawa Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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