$135 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Champaign (CMI)

View $135 flight on Tue, Jun 30, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Champaign (DCA-CMI)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $135 for one-way flights and $270 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Tue, Sep 1 - Sat, Sep 5
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$270 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$270
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Sep 1 from Washington to Champaign, returning Sat, Sep 5, priced at $270 found 8 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Sat, Aug 22
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$306 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$306
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Sat, Aug 22, priced at $306 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Jun 30 - Wed, Jul 1
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$310 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$310
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jun 30 from Washington to Champaign, returning Wed, Jul 1, priced at $310 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Thu, Dec 17
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$314 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$314
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Thu, Dec 17, priced at $314 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Sat, Aug 22
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$323 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$323
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Sat, Aug 22, priced at $323 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Sat, Aug 22
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$342 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$342
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Sat, Aug 22, priced at $342 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Thu, Dec 17
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$345 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$345
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Thu, Dec 17, priced at $345 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Sat, Jul 18 - Mon, Jul 20
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$350 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$350
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Jul 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Mon, Jul 20, priced at $350 found 7 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Sat, Dec 19
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$358 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$358
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Sat, Dec 19, priced at $358 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Sat, Aug 22
DCA
Washington
CMI
Champaign
$359 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$359
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Washington to Champaign, returning Sat, Aug 22, priced at $359 found 18 hours ago

What you need to know for your flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National to University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard

Washington (DCA) to Champaign (CMI) at a glance

Travel from Washington (DCA) to Champaign (CMI) with a full-service carrier on this convenient domestic route. Discover the best itinerary that aligns with your schedule as you uncover the notable sights and neighborhoods of Champaign. Check out essential information regarding flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport (CMI) to plan your journey effectively.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 600 miles (970 km)
  • Flights per week: around 7 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$410, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport (CMI)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Washington to Champaign are typically favored for their one-stop services, often connecting through O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a layover of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This allows you to conveniently compare prices, travel times, and cabin classes to discover the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This major carrier provides full-service travel with one-stop options, typically charging one-way fares that fall between $115 and $450. It dominates this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, and a total trip time of approximately 5 hours, including the layover.

Alternative routes from Washington (DCA) to Champaign (CMI)

  • Washington to Bloomington (DCA-BMI): Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) is located approximately 46 miles from University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport (CMI). One-way economy ticket prices for this journey generally fall between $180 and $355, varying with the season and time of booking. Typically, this route features one-stop flights, often connecting through O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines operating this route include American Airlines and Delta, with first-class service also offered.
  • Washington to Decatur (DCA-DEC): Decatur Airport (DEC) lies about 35 miles from University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport (CMI). One-way economy fares for this route usually range from $145 to $420, influenced by the season and how early tickets are purchased. This route primarily provides one-stop flight options, predominantly connecting through O'Hare International Airport (ORD). United Airlines is the leading carrier on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Champaign (CMI)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington to Champaign 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 at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book their flights two to eight weeks out. Departures in the morning, between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., not only offer lower prices but are also the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Fridays tends to be both more affordable and a 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 Champaign 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 University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Champaign 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. Champaign city center is approximately a 15-minute drive (covering about 7 miles) from University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Champaign efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Champaign, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard 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 University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign-Urbana Station, a train station, is located about 7.4 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers heading into the city.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $135 and cheap return flights from $270 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $184 and $671, and roundtrip flights usually range from $429 to $1492. 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
The cheapest month to fly from DCA to CMI is September 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
Enter DCA to CMI and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Champaign, IL (CMI), with round-trip tickets starting from around $940 with a layover in Akron-Canton (CAK). 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard), 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
The earliest flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard Airport (CMI) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in May, providing a convenient option for early risers looking to maximize their time in Champaign. 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Champaign (CMI) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 38% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to start your day early and make the most of your time in Champaign.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
Flights from DCA to CMI with one stop typically take around 7 hours, covering approximately 604 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
First class seats are offered on the DCA to CMI route with American Airlines.
How do I earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) 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 Champaign from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
If you're planning to travel to Champaign from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard (CMI) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Miami Intl. (MIA), Hopkins Intl. (CLE), Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL) before reaching Champaign. 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) 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 Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) 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
University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard
Airlines serving
American Airlines
Roundtrip price
$270
Distance
603 mi

Book with confidence

Washington to Champaign Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Washington to Champaign

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Washington to Champaign

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

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 Champaign in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $135 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 Champaign 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 Champaign 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 Champaign Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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