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$278 Cheap Flights from Columbia (COU) to Washington (DCA)

View $278 flight on Fri, Oct 16, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

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Cheap Flights from Columbia to Washington (COU-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $278 for one-way flights and $328 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
Fri, Apr 9 - Sun, Apr 11
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$328 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$328
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Apr 9 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Apr 11, priced at $328 found 5 hours ago
American Airlines
Mon, Jan 4 - Mon, Jan 11
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$343 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$343
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Mon, Jan 4 from Columbia to Washington, returning Mon, Jan 11, priced at $343 found 3 days ago
United
Thu, Oct 15 - Sat, Oct 17
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$349 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$349
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 15 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $349 found 1 day ago
United
Thu, Oct 8 - Sun, Oct 11
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$350 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$350
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Oct 11, priced at $350 found 4 days ago
United
Fri, Oct 23 - Mon, Oct 26
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$351 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$351
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 23 from Columbia to Washington, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $351 found 1 day ago
United
Fri, Apr 9 - Sun, Apr 11
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$352 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$352
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Apr 9 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Apr 11, priced at $352 found 5 hours ago
United
Fri, Oct 16 - Sat, Oct 17
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$353 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$353
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $353 found 1 day ago
United
Tue, Dec 22 - Sat, Jan 2
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$354 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$354
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Dec 22 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sat, Jan 2, priced at $354 found 1 day ago
United
Thu, Oct 8 - Sun, Oct 11
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$355 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$355
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Oct 11, priced at $355 found 4 days ago
United
Fri, Oct 16 - Sun, Oct 18
COU
Columbia
DCA
Washington
$356 Roundtrip, just found
$356
Roundtrip
just found
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Columbia to Washington, returning Sun, Oct 18, priced at $356 just found

Alternative airports near Washington

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

Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $358
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $358

What you need to know for your flight from Columbia Regional to Ronald Reagan Washington National

Columbia (COU) to Washington (DCA) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines providing flights from Columbia Regional Airport (COU) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're seeking cheap flights from Columbia or convenient airfares to Washington DCA, you can compare various options from full-service carriers. Find the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule as you prepare to discover the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of Washington.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 45m 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 $130–$535, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Columbia Regional Airport (COU) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Based on recent travel bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Columbia to Washington, often favored for their one-stop services. A common layover is at O'Hare International Airport (ORD), with an average stop duration of about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This offers travelers the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides a convenient one-stop experience, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $130 and $370. United operates around 56% of flights on this route, featuring an in-air duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
  • American Airlines: As another full-service option, American Airlines offers one-stop flights, typically priced between $175 and $580 for one-way journeys. It accounts for roughly 44% of departures along this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel duration of about 5 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.

Alternative routes from Columbia (COU) to Washington (DCA)

  • Jefferson City to Washington (JEF-DCA): Located approximately 16 miles from Columbia Regional Airport (COU), Jefferson City Memorial Airport (JEF) serves as a convenient departure point.
  • Columbia to Washington (COU-IAD): Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is roughly 23 miles away from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), offering travelers multiple options.
  • Fort Leonard Wood to Washington (TBN-DCA): St. Robert Regional Airport (TBN) is about 75 miles distant from Columbia Regional Airport (COU), making it a viable choice for flights to the capital.

How to find the best prices for flights from Columbia (COU) to Washington (DCA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Columbia to Washington 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 to 8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Morning departures between 5 am and 12 pm are not only the most popular but also often the least expensive. Additionally, flying on Wednesday can provide both lower prices and high traveler demand.
  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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Columbia Regional Airport

Washington welcomes travelers from Columbia with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Washington city center is approximately a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Washington efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Washington, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Ronald Reagan Washington National 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, National Airport Station, a metro station, is located about 0.2 miles away on foot, while Alexandria Station, a train station, is approximately 3.8 miles from the airport by car. For those heading to the waterfront, Washington Seaport, a seaport, is situated about 4.8 miles away by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $278 and cheap return flights from $328 Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $268 and $933, and return flights often range between $539 and $1490. 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The cheapest month to fly from COU to DCA is April 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Enter COU to DCA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Columbia Regional (COU) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), with round-trip tickets starting from around $238. 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 Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National), 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Columbia, MO (Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (Ronald Reagan Washington National) typically departs at around 5:55 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in April and May, making it a great option for early risers looking to reach the capital. An early departure allows you to arrive in Washington, DC with plenty of time to explore. 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) are from 6am to 9am. About 48% 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 arrive in Washington, DC in time for morning meetings or sightseeing.
How long does it take to fly from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Flights from COU to DCA with one stop typically take around 6 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 816 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class seats are offered on the COU to DCA route with American Airlines and United Airlines.
How do I earn miles on a Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington from Columbia Regional (COU)?
From Columbia Regional (COU), you can fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) in Washington. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW), Denver Intl. (DEN) before reaching Washington. 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) Washington 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 Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Regional
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
American Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$322
Distance
816 mi

Book with confidence

Columbia to Washington Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Columbia to Washington

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Columbia to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Columbia to Washington: 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 Columbia to Washington

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 Columbia to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $278 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 Columbia to Washington 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 Columbia to Washington 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.

 

Columbia to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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