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$264 Cheap Flights from Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH)

View $264 flight on Tue, Dec 1, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH)

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Cheap Flights from Wilmington to Columbus (ILM-CMH)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $264 for one-way flights and $271 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Sat, Oct 24 - Tue, Oct 27
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$271 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$271
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 24 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Tue, Oct 27, priced at $271 found 10 hours ago
United
Thu, Nov 5 - Sat, Nov 7
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$285 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$285
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Nov 5 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Sat, Nov 7, priced at $285 found 4 days ago
Delta
Sat, Oct 24 - Tue, Oct 27
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$291 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$291
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 24 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Tue, Oct 27, priced at $291 found 10 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Oct 21 - Mon, Oct 26
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$294 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$294
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 21 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $294 found 10 hours ago
United
Thu, Nov 5 - Sat, Nov 7
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$297 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$297
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Nov 5 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Sat, Nov 7, priced at $297 found 4 days ago
United
Wed, Jan 20 - Wed, Jan 27
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$299 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Wed, Jan 27, priced at $299 found 4 days ago
United
Sat, Sep 12 - Tue, Sep 15
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$300 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$300
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Sep 12 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Tue, Sep 15, priced at $300 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Wed, Oct 21 - Mon, Oct 26
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$307 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$307
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 21 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $307 found 10 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Oct 31 - Tue, Nov 3
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$312 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$312
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 31 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Tue, Nov 3, priced at $312 found 2 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 24 - Tue, Oct 27
ILM
Wilmington
CMH
Columbus
$314 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$314
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 24 from Wilmington to Columbus, returning Tue, Oct 27, priced at $314 found 10 hours ago

Alternative airports near Columbus

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

Select flight to John Glenn Columbus Intl. CMH. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 10 minutes. Flights from $349
CMH
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center10 min
Flights from $349

Find the cheapest month to fly from Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $198 - $403 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Wilmington Intl. to John Glenn Columbus Intl.

Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance

Travel between Wilmington (ILM) and Columbus (CMH) with a range of airlines offering convenient short-haul flights. You can find affordable flights from Wilmington to Columbus by comparing options from various carriers to discover an itinerary that suits your budget and travel schedule. As you prepare to explore Columbus's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods, here are the essential details for your journey from Wilmington International Airport to John Glenn Columbus International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
  • Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $100–$385, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

According to the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Wilmington to Columbus, typically featuring one-stop services. Popular layover locations include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with approximately a 1h 15m layover, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) also around 1h 15m, and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) at about 1h 15m. These options provide the flexibility to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to identify the best itinerary for your journey.

  • American Airlines: Serving as a comprehensive airline, this carrier provides one-stop options with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $110 and $380. It represents about 89% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight duration of 3 hours and an overall travel time of around 4 hours, including layover.
  • Delta: Another full-service airline, Delta also offers one-stop journeys with one-way fares typically ranging from $100 to $405. It makes up roughly 10% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time close to 4 hours, factoring in the layover.

Best time to fly from Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Wilmington to Columbus are April, May, and August, when peak temperatures in Columbus reach up to 73°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 67.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $170). Flight availability peaks in June and September, with approximately 11 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and March have the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $170, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: February, July, and June typically offer average one-way fares of around $174.
  • Most flight options: June and September have the highest number of flights from Wilmington to Columbus, with approximately 11 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January28.6°F (-1.9°C)Average7$192
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Average9$172
March41.7°F (5.4°C)Slightly Low7$234
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Slightly High9$197
May63.1°F (17.3°C)Slightly High9$187
June70.9°F (21.6°C)Average11$176
July74.7°F (23.7°C)Average10$174
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Slightly High10$208
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Slightly Low11$170
October55.8°F (13.2°C)Average8$177
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Slightly Low10$238
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Average9$184

*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 Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH)

  • Jacksonville to Columbus (OAJ-CMH): Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is approximately 43 miles from Wilmington International Airport (ILM). One-way economy tickets on this route generally fall between $120 and $375, varying by season and advance booking. This route typically features one-stop flights, with common layover locations being Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines serving this route include American Airlines and Delta. Additionally, first-class service is offered for travelers seeking a premium experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Wilmington to Columbus 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. Morning departures, between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., often offer lower prices and are also the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Wednesday usually results in cheaper fares, although Friday remains the busiest 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 John Glenn Columbus International Airport from Wilmington International Airport

Columbus welcomes travelers from Wilmington with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Columbus efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Columbus, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from John Glenn Columbus International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at John Glenn Columbus 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 John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Columbus Bus Station, a bus station, is located about 8.6 miles away by car, providing a convenient option for travelers heading into the city.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $264 and cheap return flights from $271 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $227 and $680, and roundtrip flights usually range from $282 to $906. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Wilmington, NC to Columbus, OH, with average round-trip fares around $278. This is about 9% lower than the average price throughout the year, as travel demand is typically lower after the holiday season. Other cheap months to fly from Wilmington to Columbus include February and April.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Enter ILM to CMH and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Wilmington, NC (ILM) to Columbus, OH (CMH) with a layover in Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), starting from around $218. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 time to fly from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Wilmington (ILM) to Columbus (CMH) is in January or February. Return flights during these months average around $278, making it a cost-effective option. January is particularly appealing as it tends to be less crowded, providing a more relaxed travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in November, making it a convenient option for early travelers heading to Columbus. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 32% 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 start your day early and arrive in Columbus with plenty of time to enjoy the city.
How long does it take to fly from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Flying from ILM to CMH with a connection usually takes about 6 hours 20 minutes, traveling roughly 481 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
You can fly first class between ILM and CMH. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus from Wilmington Intl. (ILM)?
When traveling from Wilmington Intl. (ILM) to Columbus, you can fly into Golden Triangle Regional (GTR), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) and Columbus Metropolitan (CSG). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), Miami Intl. (MIA), Liberty Intl. (EWR) before reaching Columbus. 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) Columbus 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 Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
If you booked your Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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
Wilmington Intl.
Destination airport
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$270
Distance
481 mi

Book with confidence

Wilmington to Columbus Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Wilmington to Columbus

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Wilmington to Columbus

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Wilmington to Columbus: 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 Wilmington to Columbus

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 Wilmington to Columbus in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $264 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 Wilmington to Columbus 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 Wilmington to Columbus 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.

 

Wilmington to Columbus Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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