$170 Cheap Flights from Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH)

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Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance

Embark on your journey from Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH) with a range of airlines offering this popular domestic short-haul route. You can compare options for cheap flights from Memphis, whether you prefer full-service or low-cost carriers, to discover the best itinerary for your budget and schedule. With multiple daily fares and weekly flights from Memphis, planning your visit to Columbus's renowned attractions and vibrant neighborhoods is effortless. Get ready to explore all that Columbus has to offer!

• Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
• Route distance: roughly 500 miles (800 km)
• Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$380, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for one-stop flights from Memphis to Columbus. Popular layover spots include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with an approximately 1-hour layover, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with about a 1 hour and 15 minutes layover, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a 1-hour layover. These options allow you to tailor your travel experience by balancing price, total journey time, and cabin class for the best itinerary.

• Delta: Delta is a prominent full-service airline providing one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices usually ranging from $120 to $410. It represents about 39% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a complete travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• American Airlines: This full-service airline offers one-stop service, with one-way fares generally falling between $140 and $390. It constitutes around 29% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and a total journey time of roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest Airlines provides one-stop services, with one-way fares typically ranging from $145 to $380. This airline accounts for about 21% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and an overall travel duration of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• United: United Airlines is a full-service carrier that offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares often between $120 and $355. It makes up roughly 12% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total journey time of around 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from Memphis to Columbus can opt to upgrade to first-class service with American Airlines on this route.

Best time to fly from Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Memphis to Columbus are March, April, and May, when peak temperatures in Columbus reach up to 63.1°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 73°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $190). Flight availability peaks in May and August, with approximately 12 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February, April, June, July, and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

• Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $190, roughly 21% cheaper than the yearly average.
• Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $198.
• Most flight options: May and August have the highest number of flights from Memphis to Columbus, with approximately 12 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

*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 Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH)

• Memphis to Columbus (MEM-LCK): Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) is located approximately 13 miles from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), providing convenient access to the city.

How to find the best prices for flights from Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Memphis 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 usually available when booking at least 2 months in advance, although most travelers tend to book 2-8 weeks ahead. Afternoon departures (12pm-6pm) often provide lower prices, while morning flights (5am-12pm) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday typically offers cheaper rates, though Sunday 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 Memphis International Airport

Columbus welcomes travelers from Memphis 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 from the airport and is most conveniently accessed by car.

Memphis to Columbus Flights

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

The best time to book a flight from Memphis to Columbus

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Memphis 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 Memphis 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 Memphis to Columbus in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $170 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 Memphis 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 Memphis 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?

You can find cheap one-way flights from $170 and cheap return flights $317 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $184 and $561, and return flights often range between $353 and $1011. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

May is the cheapest month to fly from Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH), with average round-trip fares around $321. This price is about 23% lower than the average fare for the year, as demand is typically lower in spring. Other budget-friendly months for this route include January and August.

*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.

Which airlines fly direct from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

Enter MEM to CMH and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Memphis Intl. (MEM) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), with round-trip tickets starting from around $377. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

To find a cheap flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

When flying from Memphis, TN (MEM) to Columbus, OH (CMH), May and August are the best months to consider. Return flights during these months average around $321, making them the most affordable options. May is particularly nice as it offers pleasant spring weather, while August allows for summer travel before the fall season.

*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.

What is the earliest flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

The earliest flight from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) typically departs at around 5:00 AM local time, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in February, May, and June. An early departure allows you to make the most of your time in 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

The most popular departure times for flights from Memphis (MEM) to Columbus (CMH) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 41% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is great for business travelers who want to maximize their day in Columbus.

How long does it take to fly from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

Flights from MEM to CMH with one stop typically take around 5 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 518 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

First class is available on flights from MEM to CMH. First class cabins are available on:

• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis 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 Memphis Intl. (MEM)?

From Memphis Intl. (MEM), you can fly into Columbus Metropolitan (CSG) and John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) in Columbus. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?

If you booked your Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis 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.