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$262 Cheap Flights from Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE)

View $262 flight on Mon, Sep 21, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

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Cheap Flights from Phoenix to Columbia (PHX-CAE)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $262 for one-way flights and $344 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
Fri, Oct 2 - Sat, Oct 3
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$344 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$344
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $344 found 3 days ago
United
Fri, Oct 2 - Sat, Oct 3
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$349 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$349
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $349 found 3 days ago
United
Wed, Jul 29 - Sat, Aug 1
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$354 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$354
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Jul 29 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Aug 1, priced at $354 found 2 hours ago
United
Sat, Nov 7 - Sat, Nov 14
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$359 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$359
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Nov 7 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Nov 14, priced at $359 found 2 days ago
American Airlines
Mon, Aug 31 - Sat, Sep 5
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$375 Roundtrip, just found
$375
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Mon, Aug 31 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Sep 5, priced at $375 just found
Delta
Tue, Aug 11 - Sun, Aug 16
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$375 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$375
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Aug 11 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sun, Aug 16, priced at $375 found 1 hour ago
United
Fri, Oct 2 - Sat, Oct 3
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$378 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$378
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $378 found 3 days ago
United
Fri, Oct 2 - Sat, Oct 3
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$379 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$379
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $379 found 3 days ago
United
Thu, Nov 12 - Thu, Nov 19
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$380 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$380
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Nov 12 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Thu, Nov 19, priced at $380 found 2 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Oct 2 - Sat, Oct 3
PHX
Phoenix
CAE
Columbia
$381 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$381
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Phoenix to Columbia, returning Sat, Oct 3, priced at $381 found 3 days ago

Alternative airports near Columbia

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Columbia Metropolitan CAE. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 12 minutes. Flights from $426
CAE
Columbia Metropolitan
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center12 min
Flights from $426

What you need to know for your flight from Sky Harbor Intl. to Columbia Metropolitan

Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE) at a glance

Travel from Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE) with a selection of airlines offering convenient domestic flights. Explore various options to find the best itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel plans while discovering Columbia's notable attractions and neighborhoods. Check out essential information for flights departing from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to make your journey as smooth as possible.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 5 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
  • Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$460, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Recent traveler bookings highlight the top airlines for flights from Phoenix to Columbia, particularly favored for one-stop and multi-stop itineraries. Common layover points include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with approximately a 1 hour 15 minute layover, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) around 1 hour 30 minutes, and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) also about 1 hour 15 minutes. This variety allows you to tailor your travel plans by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the best route.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop journeys with one-way ticket prices typically falling between $115 and $460. It dominates the route with about 57% of departures, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and a total travel time of around 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
  • Delta: A comprehensive service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares usually ranging from $130 to $490. It holds approximately 35% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight time of 5 hours, and a complete travel duration of about 6 hours and 15 minutes, layover included.
  • United: Another full-service option, United presents one-stop service with one-way fares generally between $120 and $440. It accounts for nearly 8% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and an overall journey time of roughly 6 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.

Best time to fly from Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Phoenix to Columbia are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Columbia reach up to 63.9°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 55°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $235). Flight availability peaks in April, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January, February, July, and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: November usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $235, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: June, May, and December typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $244 to $255.
  • Most flight options: April has the highest number of flights from Phoenix to Columbia, with approximately 13 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January45.9°F (7.7°C)High9$255
February49.8°F (9.9°C)Average9$300
March55.9°F (13.3°C)High11$291
April63.9°F (17.7°C)High13$262
May71.8°F (22.1°C)Average11$255
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Average11$244
July82.2°F (27.9°C)Average9$267
August80.6°F (27.0°C)Low10$260
September75.6°F (24.2°C)Average11$277
October65.7°F (18.7°C)Average10$289
November55.0°F (12.8°C)Low11$235
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Low9$255

*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 Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE)

  • Mesa to Columbia (MSC-CAE): Falcon Field Municipal Airport (MSC) is approximately 16 miles from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
  • Prescott to Columbia (PRC-CAE): Prescott Municipal Airport (PRC) lies around 87 miles away from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
  • Cottonwood to Columbia (CTW-CAE): Cottonwood Airport (CTW) is situated roughly 90 miles from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).

How to find the best prices for flights from Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Phoenix 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 generally available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, between 5 AM and 12 PM, are not only the most popular flight times but also tend to offer lower prices. Additionally, flying on Tuesday provides both cost savings and is a 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 Sky Harbor International Airport

Columbia welcomes travelers from Phoenix 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 to rail connections into the city.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $262 and cheap return flights from $344 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $271 and $1144, and return flights often range between $473 and $1559. 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
May is the cheapest month to fly from Phoenix (PHX) to Columbia (CAE), with average round-trip fares around $460. This fare is about 9% lower than the average price throughout the year, as May typically sees less travel activity. Other affordable months to consider are April and July.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
Enter PHX to CAE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
For flights from Phoenix, AZ (PHX) to Columbia, SC (CAE), May and July are the best months to travel. Average return flight prices are around $460, making these months both affordable and enjoyable, with May offering beautiful spring weather and July providing a lively summer atmosphere.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) typically departs at around 12:15 AM, operated by American Airlines. This flight is part of a seasonal service active in October, allowing you to start your journey early and make the most of your time 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Phoenix (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 32% 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 start your day early and arrive in Columbia with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
A flight from PHX to CAE with a layover takes around 6 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 1,769 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
First class is available on flights from PHX to CAE. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX)?
From Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX), you can fly into Columbia Regional (COU) and Columbia Metropolitan (CAE) in Columbia. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW), Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. (MSP), Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) to Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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
Sky Harbor Intl.
Destination airport
Columbia Metropolitan
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$344
Distance
1769 mi

Book with confidence

Phoenix to Columbia Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Phoenix to Columbia

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix to Columbia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $262 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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.

 

Phoenix to Columbia Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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