$147 Cheap Flights from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Columbus (CMH)
Popular airlines from Pittsburgh Intl. Airport (PIT) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH)
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Pittsburgh to Columbus (PIT-CMH)
Alternative airports near Columbus
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Pittsburgh (PIT) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance
Travel from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Columbus (CMH) with a range of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're looking for cheap flights from Pittsburgh or prefer full-service options, you can compare weekly flights to discover the best itinerary for your budget and travel plans. Explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Columbus while finding all the essential details for your journey from Pittsburgh International Airport to John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 150 miles (240 km)
- Flights per week: around 7 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $165–$375, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Pittsburgh to Columbus primarily offer one-stop services. Popular layover options include Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) with approximately a 1-hour layover, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) also around 1 hour, and O'Hare International Airport (ORD), which typically has a 1-hour layover. This variety allows you to mix and match prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to create the best itinerary for your needs.
- United: This comprehensive airline provides a one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $170 and $445. It represents about 53% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of around 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
- Delta: Another full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares commonly ranging from $165 to $370. It accounts for approximately 34% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, totaling about 4 hours and 15 minutes for the complete journey, including any layover.
- Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly option, Southwest provides one-stop services, with one-way fares typically priced between $220 and $365. It comprises roughly 12% of the departures on this route, maintaining an in-flight time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.
Alternative route from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Columbus (CMH)
- Pittsburgh to Columbus (PIT-OSU): The Ohio State University Airport (OSU) is located approximately 11 miles from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH).
How to find the best prices for flights from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Columbus (CMH)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Pittsburgh to Columbus is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Morning departures from 5 am to 12 pm generally offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Sunday often results in cheaper prices, while Thursday remains the most popular travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 Pittsburgh International Airport
Columbus welcomes travelers from Pittsburgh 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 and from the airport.
Pittsburgh to Columbus Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Columbus are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Pittsburgh to Columbus with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Pittsburgh to Columbus
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Columbus in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $147 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $147 and cheap return flights $316 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $192 to $831, and return flights typically cost between $464 and $1112. 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from PIT to CMH is November when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Enter PIT to CMH and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Southern Airways Express is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT) to Columbus, OH (CMH), with round-trip tickets starting from around $410 with a layover in Bradford Regional (BFD). 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) typically departs at around 5:00 AM. Operated by Southwest Airlines, this early flight is a great option for travelers wanting to start their day 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) are in the late morning, from 9am to 12pm. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United, Delta, and Southwest, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows for a convenient travel schedule for both business and leisure travelers.
How long does it take to fly from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Flights from PIT to CMH with one stop typically take around 4 hours 30 minutes, covering approximately 143 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from PIT to CMH. First class cabins are available on:
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT)?
From Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT), you can fly into Columbus Metropolitan (CSG), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) and Golden Triangle Regional (GTR) in Columbus. Some flights may connect through major hubs like LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy Intl. (JFK), O'Hare Intl. (ORD) 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
If you booked your Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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.
Travel information
Origin airport | Pittsburgh Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport |
Distance | 142 miles away |
Airlines serving | Delta, United, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines |
Popular airline | Delta |
Roundtrip price | $316 |