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$219 Cheap Flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH)

View $219 flight on Sat, Dec 19, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH)

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Cheap Flights from Madison to Columbus (MSN-CMH)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $219 for one-way flights and $266 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
Tue, Dec 1 - Tue, Dec 8
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$266 Roundtrip, found 16 hours ago
$266
Roundtrip
found 16 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Madison to Columbus, returning Tue, Dec 8, priced at $266 found 16 hours ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 17 - Wed, Oct 21
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$271 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$271
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Madison to Columbus, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $271 found 6 hours ago
Delta
Wed, Oct 21 - Sat, Oct 24
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$271 Roundtrip, found 20 hours ago
$271
Roundtrip
found 20 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Oct 21 from Madison to Columbus, returning Sat, Oct 24, priced at $271 found 20 hours ago
United
Tue, Dec 1 - Tue, Dec 8
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$274 Roundtrip, found 16 hours ago
$274
Roundtrip
found 16 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Madison to Columbus, returning Tue, Dec 8, priced at $274 found 16 hours ago
United
Sat, Oct 17 - Wed, Oct 21
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$278 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$278
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Madison to Columbus, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $278 found 6 hours ago
United
Thu, Dec 10 - Sat, Dec 12
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$280 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$280
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Dec 10 from Madison to Columbus, returning Sat, Dec 12, priced at $280 found 2 days ago
United
Fri, Oct 30 - Sat, Oct 31
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$285 Roundtrip, found 20 hours ago
$285
Roundtrip
found 20 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 30 from Madison to Columbus, returning Sat, Oct 31, priced at $285 found 20 hours ago
Delta
Tue, Dec 1 - Tue, Dec 8
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$291 Roundtrip, found 16 hours ago
$291
Roundtrip
found 16 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Madison to Columbus, returning Tue, Dec 8, priced at $291 found 16 hours ago
United
Mon, Jan 25 - Mon, Feb 1
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$294 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$294
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select United flight, departing Mon, Jan 25 from Madison to Columbus, returning Mon, Feb 1, priced at $294 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Oct 2 - Sun, Oct 4
MSN
Madison
CMH
Columbus
$299 Roundtrip, just found
$299
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Madison to Columbus, returning Sun, Oct 4, priced at $299 just found

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 $329
CMH
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center10 min
Flights from $329

Find the cheapest month to fly from Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $228 - $368 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Dane County Regional to John Glenn Columbus Intl.

Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH) on this convenient domestic short-haul route. Evaluate options from various carriers to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule as you plan your visit to Columbus's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Stay informed with key details regarding flights from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), ensuring a smooth travel experience.

  • Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $100–$400, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for one-stop flights from Madison to Columbus. Common layover points include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with approximately a 50-minute stop, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) also with a 1 hour and 15-minute layover. These options provide the flexibility to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to help you find your ideal itinerary.

  • United: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $120 and $445. It represents about 48% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 4 hours, including layover.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service option, American Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares usually ranging from $100 to $390. It accounts for roughly 36% of the departures on this route, ensuring an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes and a total journey time close to 4 hours, factoring in layover.
  • Delta: Delta also provides full-service one-stop journeys, with one-way fares typically spanning from $100 to $550. It constitutes about 16% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of around 4 hours, including layover.

Travelers flying from Madison to Columbus can opt for an upgraded experience, as American Airlines provides first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Madison to Columbus are March, April, and October, when peak temperatures in Columbus reach up to 55.8°F in October. If you prefer quieter travel, consider January, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 28.6°F. For better deals, December usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $213. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 12 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February, July, and September have the fewest flights, with approximately 8 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: December usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $213, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: September, November, and January typically offer average one-way fares of around $227.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Madison to Columbus, with approximately 12 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)Low9$232
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Average8$238
March41.7°F (5.4°C)High11$233
April52.0°F (11.1°C)High10$237
May63.1°F (17.3°C)Average10$232
June70.9°F (21.6°C)Low9$275
July74.7°F (23.7°C)Low8$238
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Average9$262
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Average8$222
October55.8°F (13.2°C)High12$275
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Average9$223
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Average11$213

*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 Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH)

  • Madison to Columbus (MSN-OSU): Ohio State University Airport (OSU) lies approximately 11 miles from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), providing convenient access for travelers.

How to find the best prices for flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Madison 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 found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM tend to be less expensive and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Saturday generally offers cheaper prices, while 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 Dane County Regional Airport

Columbus welcomes travelers from Madison 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 convenient access for travelers heading to various destinations.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $219 and cheap return flights from $266 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $152 to $644, and return flights typically cost between $303 and $979. 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 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
April is the cheapest month to fly from Madison, WI (MSN) to Columbus, OH (CMH), with average return fares around $308. This fare is about 15% lower than the average price throughout the year, as April typically has lower travel demand. Other budget-friendly months to consider are February and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Enter MSN to CMH 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Dane County Regional (MSN) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) starting from around $433. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 airline to fly with from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Madison, WI (MSN) to Columbus, OH (CMH) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, United typically offers the lowest fares. United offers the most daily flights from MSN to CMH, 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Madison, WI (MSN) to Columbus, OH (CMH) is in April or November. During these months, return flights average around $308, making them budget-friendly options. April brings the beauty of spring, while November offers a quieter travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Dane County Regional (MSN) to John Glenn Columbus International (CMH) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in November, giving you an early start for your trip to Ohio. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Madison (MSN) to Columbus (CMH) are from 6am to 9am. About 30% of passengers prefer this time window. Major carriers like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to make the most of your day in Columbus.
How long does it take to fly from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from MSN to CMH typically takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, covering approximately 398 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 4 hours 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the MSN to CMH route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Dane County Regional (MSN)?
When traveling from Dane County Regional (MSN) to Columbus, you can fly into John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), Columbus Metropolitan (CSG) and Golden Triangle Regional (GTR). Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Liberty Intl. (EWR), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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 Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
If you booked your Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional) 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
Dane County Regional
Destination airport
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$266
Distance
398 mi

Book with confidence

Madison to Columbus Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Madison to Columbus

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison to Columbus in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $219 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 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 Madison 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.

 

Madison to Columbus Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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