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$78 Cheap Flights from Detroit (DTW) to Washington (DCA)

View $78 flight on Sat, Sep 26, 2026Opens in a new window

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

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Cheap Flights from Detroit to Washington (DTW-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $78 for one-way flights and $155 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$155 Roundtrip, just found
$155
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $155 just found
Frontier Airlines
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$156 Roundtrip, just found
$156
Roundtrip
just found
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $156 just found
Delta
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$157 Roundtrip, just found
$157
Roundtrip
just found
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $157 just found
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Nov 4 - Thu, Nov 5
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$166 Roundtrip, just found
$166
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Nov 4 from Detroit to Washington, returning Thu, Nov 5, priced at $166 just found
Frontier Airlines
Sat, Sep 19 - Mon, Sep 21
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$171 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$171
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 19 from Detroit to Washington, returning Mon, Sep 21, priced at $171 found 4 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Mon, Nov 16 - Tue, Nov 17
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$171 Roundtrip, just found
$171
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Mon, Nov 16 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Nov 17, priced at $171 just found
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$175 Roundtrip, just found
$175
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $175 just found
Delta
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$177 Roundtrip, just found
$177
Roundtrip
just found
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $177 just found
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$180 Roundtrip, just found
$180
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Detroit to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $180 just found
JetBlue Airways
Sat, Oct 3 - Mon, Oct 5
DTW
Detroit
DCA
Washington
$279 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$279
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select JetBlue Airways flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Detroit to Washington, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $279 found 3 hours ago

Alternative airports near Washington

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

Select flight to Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall BWI. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 40 minutes. Flights from $186
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $186
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $305
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $305

Find the cheapest month to fly from Detroit (DTW) to Washington (DCA)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $128 - $209 per traveler.

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

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

Travel from Detroit (DTW) to Washington (DCA) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service or budget-friendly options, you can easily compare choices that align with your travel plans and budget. As you prepare to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of D.C., check out the essential route information for flights departing from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 35+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $90–$345, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

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

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Detroit to Washington are favored for their non-stop and one-stop flights. Popular layover options include Midway International Airport (MDW) with a layover of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) at roughly 55 minutes, and Nashville International Airport (BNA), also around 1 hour and 30 minutes. These choices allow you to tailor your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best itinerary.

  • Delta: As a comprehensive airline, Delta provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $90 and $375. This airline handles around 52% of the departures on this route, typically featuring a non-stop flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service airline, American Airlines offers both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually ranging from $90 to $315. This carrier accounts for about 41% of the route's departures, with a non-stop travel time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known as a budget-friendly option, Southwest Airlines provides one-stop services, with one-way fares typically between $105 and $265. This airline makes up around 6% of departures on this route and has an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, totaling around 4 hours and 30 minutes including layover time.
  • United: This full-service airline offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares generally ranging from $120 to $400. United accounts for roughly 1% of departures along this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes and an overall journey time of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • JetBlue Airways: As a low-cost carrier, JetBlue provides one-stop service, with one-way fares typically ranging from $100 to $335. This airline makes up around 1% of departures on this route, with a flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover.

Travelers flying from Detroit to Washington can upgrade their experience with Delta's first-class and premium economy cabins, or enjoy first-class service with American Airlines.

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

The most popular months for travelers flying from Detroit to Washington are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Washington reach up to 56.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 77.4°F. For better deals, July and August usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $159. Flight availability peaks in November, with approximately 47 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 33 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: July and August usually offer good deals with average one-way fares around $159, roughly 6% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: May and June typically offer average one-way fares of around $163.
  • Most flight options: November has the highest number of flights from Detroit to Washington, with approximately 47 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Average33$180
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Moderately High36$167
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Moderately High39$183
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Moderately High35$181
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Average40$161
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Average39$165
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Average34$159
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Moderately Low34$159
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Moderately Low39$171
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Average38$166
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Average47$178
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Moderately Low36$172

*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 Detroit (DTW) to Washington (DCA)

  • Detroit to Washington (DTW-IAD): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy ticket prices for this route generally vary between $90 and $345, influenced by the booking time and travel season. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Major airlines operating on this route include Delta and United, and first-class service is also offered.

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

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Detroit 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 found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two and eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 AM to 12 PM often offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Thursday generally results in cheaper fares, while Friday is the most popular 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport

Washington welcomes travelers from Detroit 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 and best reached by car. Additionally, Washington Seaport, a seaport, is situated about 4.8 miles away by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $78 and cheap return flights from $155 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $155 and $737, and roundtrip flights usually range from $260 to $884. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Detroit, MI (DTW) to Washington, DC (DCA), with average round-trip fares around $268. This is about 8% lower than the average price throughout the year, likely due to reduced travel after the summer season. Other budget-friendly months include October and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from DTW to DCA:

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

How do I find cheap flights from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 airline to fly with from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Detroit, MI (DTW) to Washington, DC (DCA) 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. Delta offers the most daily flights from DTW to DCA, 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
For flights from Detroit, MI (DTW) to Washington, DC (DCA), September and October are the best months to fly. September offers an average price of about $268 for a return flight, making it an economical choice. October is also popular, ensuring you have plenty of flight options while enjoying the fall scenery.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
You can find approximately 9 nonstop flights per day from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, giving you a chance to start your day early in the nation's capital. 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Detroit (DTW) to Washington, DC (DCA) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 27% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to maximize your day in the capital.
How long does it take to fly from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A nonstop flight from DTW to DCA typically takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, covering approximately 405 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 4 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class seats are offered on the DTW to DCA route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Detroit, MI (DTW) to Washington, DC (DCA) typically costs between $846 - $1,290. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $365 - $525. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW)?
From Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW), 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), Nashville Intl. (BNA), Midway Intl. (MDW) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$151
Distance
404 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 36 mins

Book with confidence

Detroit to Washington Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Detroit to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Detroit 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 Detroit 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 Detroit to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $78 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 Detroit 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 Detroit 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.

 

Detroit to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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