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$116 Cheap Flights from Richmond (RIC) to Columbus (CMH)

Popular airlines from Richmond Intl. Airport (RIC) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH)

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Cheap Flights from Richmond to Columbus (RIC-CMH)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $116 for one-way flights and $274 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
Southwest Airlines
United
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
American Airlines
American Airlines
Delta
JetBlue Airways

Alternative airports near Columbus

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

What you need to know for your flight from Richmond Intl. to John Glenn Columbus Intl.

Richmond (RIC) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance

Travel from Richmond (RIC) to Columbus (CMH) with a range of airlines offering convenient domestic flights. You can explore cheap flights from Richmond and compare options from both full-service and budget carriers to discover the itinerary that best aligns with your needs and budget. As you prepare to experience Columbus's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods, you’ll find all the essential details for flights departing from Richmond International Airport to John Glenn Columbus International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 350 miles (565 km)
  • Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $110–$380, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Richmond International Airport (RIC) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the most popular airlines flying from Richmond to Columbus, often selected for their one-stop services. Common layover points include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with about a 1-hour layover, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) also around 1 hour, and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) with approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute layover. These options allow you to tailor your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class to discover the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop travel options, with one-way tickets usually priced between $110 and $365. It represents about 48% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours, including layover.
  • Delta: Offering one-stop services, Delta is a full-service airline with one-way fares generally ranging from $110 to $380. It accounts for around 23% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and a total journey duration of roughly 4 hours, factoring in the layover.
  • United: As a full-service carrier, United provides one-stop options, with one-way fares typically between $145 and $440. This airline makes up about 20% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total travel time of around 4 hours, including layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: A low-cost airline, Southwest offers one-stop travel with one-way fares generally ranging from $110 to $360. It covers approximately 10% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and a total journey time of about 4 hours, including layover.

Travelers flying from Richmond to Columbus can opt to enhance their journey with an upgrade. Delta offers premium economy service, while American Airlines provides first-class seating.

Best time to fly from Richmond (RIC) to Columbus (CMH)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Richmond to Columbus are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Columbus reach up to 52°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 67.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $197). Flight availability peaks in June, July, September, and December, with approximately 12 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and February have the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $197, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August, June, and February typically offer average one-way fares of around $202.
  • Most flight options: June, July, September, and December have the highest number of flights from Richmond 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)Slightly Low9$225
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Slightly High9$204
March41.7°F (5.4°C)Slightly High10$267
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Slightly High10$245
May63.1°F (17.3°C)Average11$221
June70.9°F (21.6°C)Average12$199
July74.7°F (23.7°C)Average12$206
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Average11$199
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Slightly Low12$197
October55.8°F (13.2°C)Average11$227
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Slightly Low11$246
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Average12$240

*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 Richmond (RIC) to Columbus (CMH)

  • Richmond to Columbus (RIC-OSU): Ohio State University Airport (OSU) lies approximately 11 miles from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), making it a convenient option for travelers.
  • Richmond to Columbus (RIC-LCK): Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) is located about 13 miles from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), providing another viable route for your journey.

How to find the best prices for flights from Richmond (RIC) to Columbus (CMH)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Richmond 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 coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Tuesday often results in cheaper fares, 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 Richmond International Airport

Columbus welcomes travelers from Richmond with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Richmond International Airport is roughly a 15-minute drive (covering about 9 miles) from central Richmond. 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 a convenient option for longer-distance travel.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $116 and cheap return flights from $274 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $166 and $563, and roundtrip flights usually range from $319 to $1002. 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
February is the cheapest month to fly from Richmond, VA (RIC) to Columbus, OH (CMH), with average return fares around $306. This price is about 15% lower than the average throughout the year, as February typically sees less travel demand after the holiday season. Other cheap months to fly from Richmond to Columbus include April and May.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Enter RIC to CMH and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Richmond, VA (RIC) to Columbus, OH (CMH) is typically in February or April. During these months, you can find return flights at around $306, making them the cheapest options. February is ideal as it falls outside the busy holiday season, while April offers pleasant spring weather, allowing you to enjoy your trip without the crowds.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Richmond International Airport (RIC) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This service is seasonal, active in March, and an early departure allows you to maximize your time 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Richmond, VA (RIC) to Columbus, OH (CMH) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 35% 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 arrive in Columbus with a full day ahead.
How long does it take to fly from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Flying from RIC to CMH with a connection usually takes about 5 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 345 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from RIC to CMH. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Spirit Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond 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 Richmond Intl. (RIC)?
From Richmond Intl. (RIC), you can fly into Golden Triangle Regional (GTR), Columbus Metropolitan (CSG) and John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) in Columbus. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Liberty Intl. (EWR), O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
If you booked your Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond 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
Richmond Intl.
Destination airport
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$274
Distance
344 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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