Portland (PDX) to Madison (MSN) at a glance

Explore a range of options for flights to Madison as you travel from Portland International Airport (PDX) to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service airlines or budget-friendly carriers, you can compare itineraries to find the best fit for your budget and schedule. Get ready to discover Madison's renowned attractions and neighborhoods while planning your next flight from Portland to Madison.

• Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 5 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
• Route distance: roughly 1,600 miles (2,570 km)
• Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$510, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Portland International Airport (PDX) to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)

According to the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Portland to Madison, primarily offering one-stop services. Many routes feature popular layovers at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with around a one-hour connection, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) with approximately a one hour and 45 minute layover, and Denver International Airport (DEN) with about a two-hour stop. This variety allows you to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to discover the ideal itinerary.

• United: This full-service airline provides one-stop travel options, with one-way fares generally ranging from $145 to $700. United operates about 41% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
• Delta: As another full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way prices typically between $130 and $620. It accounts for around 31% of departures along this route, boasting a flight time of 5 hours and a total journey time of about 6 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layovers.
• American Airlines: This full-service carrier presents one-stop services, with one-way fares typically falling between $130 and $430. American Airlines makes up roughly 24% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and a total journey time nearing 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
• Alaska Airlines: A full-service airline providing one-stop options, Alaska Airlines has one-way fares that usually range from $215 to $440. It represents approximately 2% of departures on this route, with a flying time of 5 hours and a total travel duration of around 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
• Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares generally ranging from $130 to $220. This airline accounts for about 2% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and a total journey time of roughly 6 hours and 30 minutes, inclusive of layovers.

Travelers flying from Portland to Madison have the option to upgrade their flight, with United offering first-class service, while Delta provides both first class and premium economy seating.

Best time to fly from Portland (PDX) to Madison (MSN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Portland to Madison are April, May, and August, when peak temperatures in Madison reach up to 69.8°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 20.7°F. For better deals, February and August usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $247. Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 16 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

• Cheapest time to fly: February and August usually offer good deals with average one-way fares around $247, roughly 17% cheaper than the yearly average.
• Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Portland to Madison, with approximately 16 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	18.7°F (-7.4°C)	Average	10	$283
February	20.7°F (-6.3°C)	Slightly Low	9	$247
March	34.7°F (1.5°C)	Average	10	$363
April	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Slightly High	11	$291
May	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Slightly High	16	$292
June	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Average	13	$353
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Average	14	$295
August	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Slightly High	15	$247
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Average	14	$275
October	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Average	14	$285
November	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Slightly Low	11	$312
December	26.6°F (-3.0°C)	Slightly Low	13	$336

*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 Portland (PDX) to Madison (MSN)

• Portland to Appleton (PDX-ATW): Located approximately 88 miles from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), Appleton International Airport (ATW) offers a range of one-way economy fares between $125 and $495, influenced by the season and advance booking. Flights on this route generally include one-stop options, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Major airlines operating on this route are United and Delta, with first-class service also available.

How to find the best prices for flights from Portland (PDX) to Madison (MSN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Portland to Madison 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures (6 PM-12 AM) tend to be less expensive, even though morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Friday generally offers lower prices, while Thursday 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 Dane County Regional Airport from Portland International Airport

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

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Madison, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car from Dane County Regional Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Dane County Regional 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 Dane County Regional Airport, Madison Station, a train station, is located about 7.2 miles away by car, while Madison Dutch Mill Park and Ride, a bus station, is situated approximately 9.2 miles away by car, providing convenient options for both rail and bus travel.