$177 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Wilmington (ILM)
Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM)
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Cheap Flights from Washington to Wilmington (DCA-ILM)
Alternative airports near Wilmington
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Washington (DCA) to Wilmington (ILM) at a glance
Travel from Washington (DCA) to Wilmington (ILM) on this domestic short-haul route, where you'll find a range of airlines offering various flight options. Whether you prefer full-service carriers or are on the lookout for affordable flights from Washington, you can easily compare itineraries to match your budget and schedule. Explore Wilmington's renowned attractions and neighborhoods as you plan your journey from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Wilmington International Airport (ILM).
- Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
- Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$395, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Wilmington International Airport (ILM)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Washington to Wilmington, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover spots include LaGuardia Airport (LGA, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes), Logan International Airport (BOS, around 1 hour 30 minutes), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, about 1 hour). This variety allows you to balance cost, total travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal itinerary for your journey.
- American Airlines: This major carrier provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $120 and $405. It represents around 97% of the departures on this route, with a standard non-stop travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Delta: Another full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop service with one-way fares usually ranging from $120 to $375. It makes up about 3% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
Travelers flying from Washington to Wilmington can opt for an upgrade, as American Airlines provides first-class service on this route.
Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Wilmington (ILM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Wilmington are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Wilmington reach up to 63.5°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 52°F. For better deals, June usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $226. Flight availability peaks in June, with approximately 11 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. September has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: June usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $226, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: December, July, and November typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $234 to $246.
- Most flight options: June has the highest number of flights from Washington to Wilmington, with approximately 11 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 47.5°F (8.6°C) | Average | 9 | $258 |
| February | 50.7°F (10.4°C) | Slightly High | 8 | $259 |
| March | 55.8°F (13.2°C) | Slightly High | 9 | $262 |
| April | 63.5°F (17.5°C) | Slightly High | 9 | $279 |
| May | 70.9°F (21.6°C) | Average | 10 | $260 |
| June | 77.5°F (25.3°C) | Average | 11 | $226 |
| July | 80.6°F (27.0°C) | Average | 10 | $240 |
| August | 79.5°F (26.4°C) | Average | 10 | $249 |
| September | 75.4°F (24.1°C) | Slightly Low | 7 | $254 |
| October | 66.7°F (19.3°C) | Average | 10 | $256 |
| November | 56.8°F (13.8°C) | Slightly Low | 9 | $246 |
| December | 52.0°F (11.1°C) | Slightly Low | 9 | $234 |
*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 Wilmington (ILM)
- Washington to Wilmington (IAD-ILM): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). On this route, one-way economy prices generally fluctuate between $35 and $570, influenced by the season and how far in advance you make your reservation. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights, with common layovers at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines operating on this route include American Airlines and the budget-friendly Avelo Airlines.
How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Wilmington (ILM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington to Wilmington is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Departures in the afternoon (12 PM-6 PM) are typically cheaper and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Saturday often results in lower prices, while Friday remains the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.* Find Wilmington hotel and flight deals.
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 Wilmington International Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Wilmington 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 Wilmington efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Wilmington, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Wilmington International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Wilmington 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 Wilmington International Airport, Laura W. Padgett Bus Station, a bus station, is located about 4.1 miles away by car, while Wilmington Seaport, a seaport, is situated approximately 4.7 miles away by car, providing convenient transport options for travelers heading to these destinations.
Washington to Wilmington Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Washington to Wilmington
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 Wilmington are during the month of March. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Washington to Wilmington with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Washington to Wilmington
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Washington to Wilmington: 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 Wilmington
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 Wilmington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $177 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $177 and cheap return flights $418 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $233 and $717, and roundtrip flights usually range from $365 to $1047. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
February is the cheapest month to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Wilmington, NC (ILM), with average return fares around $407. This price is about 11% lower than the average fare throughout the year, likely due to lower travel demand in winter. Other budget-friendly months for this route include May and October.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
American Airlines operates around 20 direct flights from DCA to ILM every week.
How do I find cheap flights from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington 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 airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Wilmington, NC (ILM) 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 ILM, 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Wilmington (ILM) is in February or May. February offers the lowest average price at around $407, while May is also a popular month for travel. This combination of good prices and flight options makes these months ideal for your trip.
*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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
You can find approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Wilmington Intl. (ILM). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA) to Wilmington, NC (ILM) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in April, helping you get an early start on your trip. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Wilmington, NC (ILM) are from 6am to 9am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Wilmington with plenty of time to enjoy your day.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
Direct flights from DCA to ILM usually take about 1 hour 30 minutes, traveling roughly 320 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours to your journey. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from DCA to ILM. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington 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 Wilmington from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
From Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into New Castle (ILG) and Wilmington Intl. (ILM) in Wilmington. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Logan Intl. (BOS) before reaching Wilmington. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) Wilmington 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington 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 | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Wilmington Intl. Airport |
Distance | 320 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $418 |
Average flight time | 1 hour 34 mins |