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$284 Cheap Flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE)

View $284 flight on Tue, Oct 13, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Cheap Flights from Madison to Columbia (MSN-CAE)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $284 for one-way flights and $339 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Tue, Oct 20
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$339 Roundtrip, just found
$339
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Madison to Columbia, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $339 just found
Delta
Tue, Oct 13 - Tue, Oct 20
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$339 Roundtrip, just found
$339
Roundtrip
just found
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Madison to Columbia, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $339 just found
American Airlines
Wed, Mar 24 - Wed, Apr 7
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$340 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$340
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Mar 24 from Madison to Columbia, returning Wed, Apr 7, priced at $340 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Oct 14 - Wed, Oct 21
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$344 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$344
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Madison to Columbia, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $344 found 10 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Mar 24 - Fri, Apr 9
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$349 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$349
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Mar 24 from Madison to Columbia, returning Fri, Apr 9, priced at $349 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Oct 14 - Wed, Oct 21
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$349 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$349
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Madison to Columbia, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $349 found 10 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Oct 24 - Mon, Oct 26
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$369 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$369
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 24 from Madison to Columbia, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $369 found 4 hours ago
Delta
Fri, Dec 4 - Mon, Dec 7
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$379 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$379
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Dec 4 from Madison to Columbia, returning Mon, Dec 7, priced at $379 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Mar 24 - Wed, Apr 7
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$384 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$384
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Mar 24 from Madison to Columbia, returning Wed, Apr 7, priced at $384 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Mar 24 - Wed, Apr 7
MSN
Madison
CAE
Columbia
$389 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$389
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Mar 24 from Madison to Columbia, returning Wed, Apr 7, priced at $389 found 1 day ago

What you need to know for your flight from Dane County Regional to Columbia Metropolitan

Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE) at a glance

Travelers can choose from a range of airlines offering flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE) on this domestic short-haul route. Compare options from various carriers to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule while you discover Columbia’s iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Here, you'll find essential information about flights from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 45m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 800 miles (1,290 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$450, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines commonly selected for flights from Madison to Columbia, typically featuring one-stop services. Popular layover options include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with about a 1-hour and 15-minute layover, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) offering roughly a 2-hour layover, and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) with an approximately 2-hour and 45-minute layover. These choices provide the flexibility to balance cost, total travel time, and cabin class when planning your trip.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $125 and $395. It makes up about 51% of the departures on this route, boasting an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes, including the layover.
  • Delta: As a full-service carrier, Delta offers one-stop services, with typical one-way fares ranging from $130 to $510. It comprises around 28% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the overall journey takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.
  • United: Another full-service option, United provides one-stop service with one-way fares usually between $140 and $510. It represents roughly 22% of the departures on this route, with an in-air time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the total journey lasts about 5 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.

Travelers can enhance their journey from Madison to Columbia by opting for Delta's premium economy class service on this route for a more comfortable flying experience.

Alternative routes from Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE)

  • Waukesha to Columbia (UES-CAE): Located approximately 56 miles from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), Waukesha County Airport (UES) serves as a convenient departure point.
  • Rockford to Columbia (RFD-CAE): Greater Rockford Airport (RFD) is about 66 miles from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), providing another viable travel option.

How to find the best prices for flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Madison to Columbia 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 2 to 8 weeks in advance, coinciding with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM often offer lower prices and are quite popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday tends to provide both cheaper rates and is the most favored 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.* Find Columbia hotel and flight deals.
  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 Columbia Metropolitan Airport from Dane County Regional Airport

Columbia welcomes travelers from Madison 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 from the airport and is typically reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $284 and cheap return flights from $339 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $231 and $616, and roundtrip flights usually range from $345 to $1083. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Madison, WI (MSN) to Columbia, SC (CAE), with average round-trip fares around $288. This price is about 35% lower than the average throughout the year, as January often has less travel activity. Other affordable months to consider are May and December.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Enter MSN to CAE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE), with round-trip tickets starting from around $636 with a layover in O'Hare Intl. (ORD). 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The best times to fly from Madison (MSN) to Columbia (CAE) are January and May, with average return flight prices around $288. January typically offers lower fares, while May brings pleasant weather, making it a great time for travel.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. An early departure like this can help you maximize your time in Columbia. This service operates seasonally in June. 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Madison, WI (MSN) to Columbia, SC (CAE) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 39% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and maximize your time in Columbia.
How long does it take to fly from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Flying from MSN to CAE with a connection usually takes about 5 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 774 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
First class seats are offered on the MSN to CAE route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Dane County Regional (MSN)?
From Dane County Regional (MSN), you can fly into Columbia Regional (COU) and Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) in Columbia. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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
Dane County Regional
Destination airport
Columbia Metropolitan
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$338
Distance
774 mi

Book with confidence

Madison to Columbia Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Madison to Columbia

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison to Columbia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $284 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 Madison 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 Madison 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.

 

Madison to Columbia Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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