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$95 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Detroit (DTW)

View $95 flight on Wed, Nov 18, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Detroit (DCA-DTW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $95 for one-way flights and $190 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Sat, Dec 5 - Sat, Dec 12
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$190 Roundtrip, found 22 hours ago
$190
Roundtrip
found 22 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, Dec 5 from Washington to Detroit, returning Sat, Dec 12, priced at $190 found 22 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Wed, Nov 4 - Tue, Nov 10
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$201 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$201
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Wed, Nov 4 from Washington to Detroit, returning Tue, Nov 10, priced at $201 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Nov 4 - Tue, Nov 10
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$206 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$206
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Nov 4 from Washington to Detroit, returning Tue, Nov 10, priced at $206 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Nov 4 - Tue, Nov 10
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$211 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$211
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Nov 4 from Washington to Detroit, returning Tue, Nov 10, priced at $211 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Dec 2 - Tue, Dec 8
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$212 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$212
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Dec 2 from Washington to Detroit, returning Tue, Dec 8, priced at $212 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Dec 10 - Wed, Dec 16
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$214 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$214
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Dec 10 from Washington to Detroit, returning Wed, Dec 16, priced at $214 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Nov 7 - Tue, Nov 17
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$215 Roundtrip, found 17 hours ago
$215
Roundtrip
found 17 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Nov 7 from Washington to Detroit, returning Tue, Nov 17, priced at $215 found 17 hours ago
Delta
Tue, Dec 1 - Wed, Dec 9
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$229 Roundtrip, found 20 hours ago
$229
Roundtrip
found 20 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Washington to Detroit, returning Wed, Dec 9, priced at $229 found 20 hours ago
United
Sat, Oct 10 - Sun, Oct 11
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$408 Roundtrip, just found
$408
Roundtrip
just found
Select United flight, departing Sat, Oct 10 from Washington to Detroit, returning Sun, Oct 11, priced at $408 just found
JetBlue Airways
Thu, Jan 7 - Tue, Jan 12
DCA
Washington
DTW
Detroit
$459 Roundtrip, found 22 hours ago
$459
Roundtrip
found 22 hours ago
Select JetBlue Airways flight, departing Thu, Jan 7 from Washington to Detroit, returning Tue, Jan 12, priced at $459 found 22 hours ago

Alternative airports near Detroit

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

Select flight to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County DTW. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 26 minutes. Flights from $289
DTW
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center26 min
Flights from $289

What you need to know for your flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County

Washington (DCA) to Detroit (DTW) at a glance

Travel from Washington (DCA) to Detroit (DTW) with a range of airlines offering a variety of options on this short domestic route. Whether you're seeking cheap flights from Washington, D.C. to Detroit or looking for low fares from Washington, you can compare both full-service and budget carriers to find the travel itinerary that suits your schedule and budget. Discover essential information about flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) as you plan your visit to Detroit's iconic attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 30+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $90–$360, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Washington to Detroit, focusing on non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover points include Midway International Airport (MDW) with a layover of about 1 hour and 45 minutes, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Nashville International Airport (BNA) also for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. This variety allows you to tailor your itinerary by balancing price, travel time, and cabin class.

  • Delta: This comprehensive airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flight options, with one-way ticket prices generally ranging from $90 to $405. Delta represents about 49% of the departures on this route, typically completing non-stop flights in around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service provider, American Airlines offers both non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way fares usually between $90 and $350. It contributes to roughly 43% of flights on this route, with a standard non-stop travel duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest Airlines provides one-stop service, with one-way fares commonly priced from $100 to $240. It accounts for about 6% of departures along this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, culminating in a total journey time of approximately 5 hours, including layover.
  • United: This full-service airline offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $185 to $435. United's in-flight duration is around 3 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total travel time of roughly 5 hours, factoring in the layover.
  • JetBlue Airways: A low-cost option, JetBlue Airways presents one-stop services with one-way fares generally between $90 and $160. Passengers can expect an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, resulting in an overall journey time of about 5 hours, including any layover.

Travelers flying from Washington to Detroit have the option to upgrade their flight experience. American Airlines offers first-class service, while Delta provides both first-class and premium economy cabins. United also features first-class service for a more luxurious journey.

Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Detroit (DTW)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Detroit are March, April, and November, when peak temperatures in Detroit reach up to 46.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 59.4°F. For better deals, February usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $172. Flight availability peaks in November, with approximately 44 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 27 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $172, roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: May, September, and August typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $173 to $184.
  • Most flight options: November has the highest number of flights from Washington to Detroit, with approximately 44 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Average27$196
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Average29$172
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Slightly High33$210
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Slightly High30$209
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Slightly Low33$173
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Slightly Low36$188
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Slightly Low34$188
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Average34$184
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Average34$177
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Average35$187
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Slightly High44$193
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Average36$187

*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 Detroit (DTW)

  • Washington to Detroit (IAD-DTW): Located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) serves as a key departure point for this route. One-way economy ticket prices generally vary from $90 to $345, influenced by factors such as the season and how far in advance you book. Travelers can choose between non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines on this route include United and Delta, with first-class service also available for those seeking a more premium experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Detroit (DTW)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington to Detroit 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. typically offer lower prices and are also popular, while flying on Tuesday generally results in cheaper rates, despite Friday being 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.*
  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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Detroit 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. Here's how to reach Detroit efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Detroit, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County 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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Dearborn Station, a train station, is located about 8.3 miles away.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $95 and cheap return flights from $190 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $145 to $623, and return flights typically cost between $268 and $887. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Detroit, MI (DTW), with average return fares around $262. This fare is about 14% lower than the average price for the year, as travel tends to slow down after the summer. Other affordable months include January and February.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
2 airlines operate nonstop service from DCA to DTW:

  • Delta operates around 34 direct flights from DCA to DTW every week
  • American Airlines operates around 32 direct flights from DCA to DTW every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW), with round-trip tickets starting from around $430. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County), 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Detroit, MI (DTW) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Delta offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. United offers the most daily flights from Washington, DC to Detroit, 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
When flying from Washington, DC (DCA) to Detroit, MI (DTW), September and February are your best bets. September features an average price of about $262 for a return flight, making it a cost-effective choice. February, while less busy, can also offer good deals, allowing you to enjoy Detroit without the crowds.*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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
You can find approximately 9 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The earliest flight from Washington, DC (Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport) to Detroit (Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service can be a great option if you want to start your day early and maximize your time in Detroit. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Detroit with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
A nonstop flight from DCA to DTW typically takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, covering approximately 405 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 3 hours 10 minutes to your travel time. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
First class seats are offered on the DCA to DTW route. First class cabins are available on:

  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Washington, DC (DCA) to Detroit (DTW) typically costs between $811 - $1,156. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $331 - $523. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
From Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) to reach Detroit. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Liberty Intl. (EWR), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) before reaching Detroit. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) Detroit 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$190
Distance
404 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 38 mins

Book with confidence

Washington to Detroit Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Washington to Detroit

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Washington to Detroit

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

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 Detroit in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $95 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 Detroit 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 Detroit 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 Detroit Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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