$274 Cheap Flights from Indianapolis (IND) to Columbia (CAE)
Popular airlines from Indianapolis Intl. Airport (IND) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
DeltaDelta
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
UnitedUnited
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Cheap Flights from Indianapolis to Columbia (IND-CAE)
Alternative airports near Columbia
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Indianapolis (IND) to Columbia (CAE) at a glance
Travel from Indianapolis (IND) to Columbia (CAE) on this domestic short-haul route, where you can explore various airlines offering flights from Indianapolis. Evaluate options from full-service carriers to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule while you visit Columbia's iconic attractions and neighborhoods. Check out the essential details for flights from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
- Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $105–$385, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Indianapolis to Columbia, favored for their one-stop services. Common layover points include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) at approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), also around 1 hour and 15 minutes. These options allow you to tailor your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.
- Delta: This full-service airline provides one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices usually between $105 and $405. Delta makes up about 44% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
- American Airlines: Offering one-stop service as a full-service airline, American Airlines has one-way fares that generally range from $115 to $370. It represents around 41% of departures along this route, with a flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes and a complete journey time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in layovers.
- United: As a full-service carrier, United offers one-stop service with one-way fares typically priced between $105 and $400. This airline accounts for roughly 15% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes and a total trip time of nearly 4 hours and 15 minutes, including any layover.
Travelers flying from Indianapolis to Columbia can opt for an upgrade, as Delta provides premium economy service on this route for added comfort.
Best time to fly from Indianapolis (IND) to Columbia (CAE)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Indianapolis to Columbia are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Columbia reach up to 63.9°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 75.6°F. For better deals, July usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $164. Flight availability peaks in June and October, with approximately 12 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 8 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: July usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $164, roughly 25% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Most flight options: June and October have the highest number of flights from Indianapolis to Columbia, with approximately 12 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 45.9°F (7.7°C) | Average | 8 | $243 |
| February | 49.8°F (9.9°C) | Slightly High | 10 | $195 |
| March | 55.9°F (13.3°C) | Slightly High | 10 | $266 |
| April | 63.9°F (17.7°C) | Slightly High | 11 | $244 |
| May | 71.8°F (22.1°C) | Average | 11 | $192 |
| June | 79.2°F (26.2°C) | Average | 12 | $220 |
| July | 82.2°F (27.9°C) | Average | 11 | $164 |
| August | 80.6°F (27.0°C) | Average | 11 | $190 |
| September | 75.6°F (24.2°C) | Slightly Low | 9 | $206 |
| October | 65.7°F (18.7°C) | Average | 12 | $235 |
| November | 55.0°F (12.8°C) | Slightly Low | 10 | $216 |
| December | 49.6°F (9.8°C) | Slightly Low | 10 | $257 |
*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 routes from Indianapolis (IND) to Columbia (CAE)
- Columbus to Columbia (CLU-CAE): Columbus Municipal Airport (CLU) is located approximately 38 miles from Indianapolis International Airport (IND).
- Indianapolis to Aiken (IND-AIK): Aiken Municipal Airport (AIK) lies about 38 miles from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).
- Anderson to Columbia (AID-CAE): Anderson Municipal Airport (AID) is roughly 46 miles away from Indianapolis International Airport (IND).
How to find the best prices for flights from Indianapolis (IND) to Columbia (CAE)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Indianapolis to Columbia 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 at least two months in advance, even though most travelers tend to book within two weeks. Morning departures from 5 am to 12 pm often provide lower prices and are quite popular, while flying on Saturdays generally offers cheaper options, despite Friday being the most favored 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 Columbia 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 Columbia Metropolitan Airport from Indianapolis International Airport
Columbia welcomes travelers from Indianapolis with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Columbia city center is approximately a 15-minute drive (covering about 8 miles) from Columbia Metropolitan Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Columbia efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Columbia, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Columbia Metropolitan Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Columbia Metropolitan 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 Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Columbia Station, a train station, is located about 7.9 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers heading into the city.
Indianapolis to Columbia Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Indianapolis to Columbia
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 Indianapolis to Columbia are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Indianapolis to Columbia with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Indianapolis to Columbia
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Indianapolis to Columbia: 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 Indianapolis to Columbia
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 Indianapolis to Columbia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $274 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 Indianapolis to Columbia 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 Indianapolis to Columbia 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $274 and cheap return flights $313 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $198 to $642, and return flights typically cost between $312 and $995. 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The cheapest month to fly from IND to CAE is November when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Enter IND to CAE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Indianapolis, IN (IND) to Columbia, SC (CAE) with a layover in O'Hare Intl. (ORD), starting from around $190 for a round-trip ticket. 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan), 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Columbia Metropolitan typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in June, and an early departure allows you to make the most of your day in Columbia. 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 37% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Columbia with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Flights from IND to CAE with one stop typically take around 4 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 490 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
You can fly first class between IND and CAE. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Columbia from Indianapolis Intl. (IND)?
From Indianapolis Intl. (IND), you can fly into Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) and Columbia Regional (COU) in Columbia. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Liberty Intl. (EWR), Philadelphia Intl. (PHL) before reaching Columbia. 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) 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 | Indianapolis Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Columbia Metropolitan Airport |
Distance | 490 miles away |
Airlines serving | Delta, American Airlines, United |
Popular airline | Delta |
Roundtrip price | $313 |