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$163 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Columbia (CAE)

View $163 flight on Sun, Sep 6, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Columbia (DCA-CAE)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $163 for one-way flights and $249 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$249 Roundtrip, just found
$249
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $249 just found
American Airlines
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$259 Roundtrip, just found
$259
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $259 just found
American Airlines
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$264 Roundtrip, just found
$264
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $264 just found
Delta
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$269 Roundtrip, just found
$269
Roundtrip
just found
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $269 just found
American Airlines
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$274 Roundtrip, just found
$274
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $274 just found
American Airlines
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$279 Roundtrip, just found
$279
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $279 just found
Delta
Mon, Aug 3 - Tue, Aug 11
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$284 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$284
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Aug 3 from Washington to Columbia, returning Tue, Aug 11, priced at $284 found 7 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Nov 18 - Sat, Nov 21
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$287 Roundtrip, found 17 hours ago
$287
Roundtrip
found 17 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Nov 18 from Washington to Columbia, returning Sat, Nov 21, priced at $287 found 17 hours ago
American Airlines
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$289 Roundtrip, just found
$289
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $289 just found
United
Fri, Oct 2 - Mon, Oct 5
DCA
Washington
CAE
Columbia
$417 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$417
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Washington to Columbia, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $417 found 1 hour 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 $284
CAE
Columbia Metropolitan
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center12 min
Flights from $284

Find the cheapest month to fly from Washington (DCA) to Columbia (CAE)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $189 - $427 per traveler.

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

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

Travel from Washington (DCA) to Columbia (CAE) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Explore various options to find the best fit for your budget and schedule as you prepare to discover Columbia's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Check out essential information for flights departing from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) and uncover some cheap flights from DCA to Columbia to enhance your travel plans.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $95–$360, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Washington to Columbia, particularly for non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover points include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, about a 1-hour layover), Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT, roughly 1 hour), and LaGuardia Airport (LGA, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes). These choices allow you to mix and match price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the best travel itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, generally charging one-way fares between $95 and $370. It dominates this route, comprising about 97% of all departures, with a direct flight lasting roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way ticket prices typically between $125 and $400. It represents around 3% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours, including layover.

Travelers flying from Washington to Columbia can opt for an upgrade to first class, with American Airlines providing premium service on this route.

Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Columbia (CAE)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Columbia are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Columbia reach up to 63.9°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 79.2°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $170). Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. March and August have the fewest flights, with approximately 11 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: June usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $170, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: May, August, and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $180.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Washington to Columbia, with approximately 18 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Average12$194
February49.8°F (9.9°C)Moderately High13$183
March55.9°F (13.3°C)Moderately High11$202
April63.9°F (17.7°C)Moderately High12$218
May71.8°F (22.1°C)Moderately Low13$176
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderately Low12$170
July82.2°F (27.9°C)Moderately Low13$194
August80.6°F (27.0°C)Average11$183
September75.6°F (24.2°C)Average14$193
October65.7°F (18.7°C)Average18$183
November55.0°F (12.8°C)Average13$199
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Average14$200

*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 Washington (DCA) to Columbia (CAE)

  • Washington to Columbia (IAD-CAE): Located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) serves this route. One-way economy fares generally fall between $95 and $375, influenced by the time of year and booking period. Travelers can choose between non-stop and one-stop flights. The leading airlines providing service on this route include United and Delta, with first-class options also available.

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

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington 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. Departures in the morning, from 5 AM to 12 PM, tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times, while flying on Fridays provides both affordable rates and is the most favored 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Columbia welcomes travelers from Washington with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is roughly a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from central Washington. 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 away by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $163 and cheap return flights from $249 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $221 and $751, and return flights often range between $268 and $957. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Columbia, SC (CAE), with average round-trip fares around $298. This price is about 15% lower than the average throughout the year, as demand typically drops after the holiday season. Other budget-friendly months include May and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
American Airlines offers around 22 weekly direct flights from DCA to CAE.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Columbia Metropolitan (CAE), with round-trip tickets starting from around $188. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Columbia, SC (CAE) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, American Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines also offers the most daily flights from DCA to CAE, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
For flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Columbia, SC (CAE), January and September are the best months to fly, with average return flight prices around $298. These months are less busy, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience at a lower cost.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
There are approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Columbia Metropolitan (CAE). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in May, giving you a chance to maximize your time in Columbia. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Columbia, SC (CAE) are from 6am to 9am. About 39% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to start your day early and make the most of your time in Columbia.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Flying nonstop from DCA to CAE takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 408 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 30 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Business class seats are offered on the DCA to CAE route with American Airlines.First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Washington, DC (DCA) to Columbia, SC (CAE) typically costs between $636 - $869. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
When traveling from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Columbia, you can fly into Columbia Regional (COU) and Columbia Metropolitan (CAE). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Liberty Intl. (EWR), Miami Intl. (MIA), LaGuardia (LGA) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Destination airport
Columbia Metropolitan
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$249
Distance
407 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 38 mins

Book with confidence

Washington to Columbia Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Washington to Columbia

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington to Columbia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $163 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 Washington 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 Washington 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.

 

Washington to Columbia Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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