$139 Cheap Flights from Richmond (RIC) to Fresno (FAT)
Popular airlines from Richmond Intl. Airport (RIC) to Fresno Yosemite Intl. Airport (FAT)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
UnitedUnited
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
DeltaDelta
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Richmond to Fresno (RIC-FAT)
Find the cheapest month to fly from Richmond (RIC) to Fresno (FAT)
January is typically the cheapest month to flyJanuary is typically the cheapest month to fly
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Richmond (RIC) to Fresno (FAT) at a glance
Travel from Richmond (RIC) to Fresno (FAT) with a variety of airlines on this domestic long-haul route. Explore options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel schedule. Whether you're seeking weekly flights or looking for the best flight prices, you can easily plan your adventure to experience Fresno's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Find essential details for flights departing from Richmond International Airport to Fresno Yosemite International Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 6h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 2,300 miles (3,700 km)
- Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $155–$555, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Richmond International Airport (RIC) to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines for flights from Richmond to Fresno, favored for both one-stop and multi-stop itineraries. Common layover spots include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with an average layover of about 2 hours and 45 minutes, Denver International Airport (DEN) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), also approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This flexibility allows you to mix and match options based on price, total travel time, and cabin class to find the ideal travel plan.
- American Airlines: This established full-service airline provides both one-stop and multi-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $155 and $550. It represents about 52% of flights on this route, featuring an average in-flight duration of 6 hours and 45 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes.
- Delta: Another prominent full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop and multi-stop services, with one-way fares typically ranging from $175 to $510. It makes up roughly 20% of the departures along this route, boasting a typical in-flight time of 6 hours and 45 minutes and a total journey duration of about 8 hours and 15 minutes.
- United: This full-service carrier specializes in one-stop journeys, with one-way ticket prices generally between $195 and $560. United accounts for around 18% of departures on this route, providing an in-flight experience of 6 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
- Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly option, Southwest Airlines offers both one-stop and multi-stop services, with one-way fares usually ranging from $175 to $555. It comprises about 10% of departures on this route, with an average multi-stop flight time of 7 hours and 45 minutes, resulting in a total trip duration of around 10 hours and 15 minutes.
Best time to fly from Richmond (RIC) to Fresno (FAT)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Richmond to Fresno are April, May, and December, when peak temperatures in Fresno reach up to 70°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 84.4°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $268). Flight availability peaks in December, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. March has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $268, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: May, September, and July typically offer average one-way fares of around $282.
- Most flight options: December has the highest number of flights from Richmond to Fresno, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 49.5°F (9.7°C) | Moderately Low | 8 | $394 |
| February | 50.9°F (10.5°C) | Average | 9 | $301 |
| March | 55.4°F (13.0°C) | Average | 7 | $357 |
| April | 62.1°F (16.7°C) | Moderately High | 9 | $367 |
| May | 70.0°F (21.1°C) | Moderately High | 8 | $278 |
| June | 79.5°F (26.4°C) | Average | 9 | $296 |
| July | 86.0°F (30.0°C) | Average | 8 | $285 |
| August | 84.4°F (29.1°C) | Moderately Low | 8 | $268 |
| September | 78.8°F (26.0°C) | Average | 9 | $280 |
| October | 67.6°F (19.8°C) | Average | 9 | $308 |
| November | 55.9°F (13.3°C) | Moderately Low | 9 | $419 |
| December | 48.7°F (9.3°C) | Moderately High | 14 | $437 |
*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 Fresno (FAT)
- Richmond to Visalia (RIC-VIS): Visalia Municipal Airport (VIS) is located approximately 35 miles from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT).
- Richmond to Merced (RIC-MCE): Merced Municipal Airport (MCE) lies around 57 miles from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT).
- Richmond to Mammoth Lakes (RIC-MMH): Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is positioned about 76 miles from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT).
How to find the best prices for flights from Richmond (RIC) to Fresno (FAT)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Richmond to Fresno is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- 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. Evening departures (6 PM-12 AM) tend to offer lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday generally results in cheaper fares, although Saturday remains the busiest 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 Fresno Yosemite International Airport from Richmond International Airport
Fresno 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 Fresno efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Fresno, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Fresno Yosemite International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Fresno Yosemite 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 Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Fresno Station, a train station, is located about 5.6 miles away by car, providing convenient access to train services for travelers.
Richmond to Fresno Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Richmond to Fresno
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 Richmond to Fresno are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Richmond to Fresno with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Richmond to Fresno
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Richmond to Fresno: 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 Richmond to Fresno
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 Richmond to Fresno in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $139 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 Richmond to Fresno 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 Richmond to Fresno 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $139 and cheap return flights $353 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $201 and $1070, and return flights often range between $474 and $1617. 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
February is the cheapest month to fly from Richmond, VA (RIC) to Fresno, CA (FAT), with average round-trip fares around $394. This is about 27% lower than the average price throughout the year, as February typically has lower travel demand. Other budget-friendly months to consider are January and October.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
Enter RIC to FAT and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Richmond, VA (RIC) to Fresno, CA (FAT), with round-trip tickets starting from around $748 with a layover in Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI). 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 Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
For flights from Richmond, VA (RIC) to Fresno, CA (FAT), January and February are the best months to fly. January has an average price of about $394, making it an affordable choice, while February also offers good rates. These months are ideal as they typically see lower travel demand, allowing for better prices and more flight options.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Richmond, VA (Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (Fresno Yosemite Intl.) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in December, allowing you to maximize your time in California. 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 54% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and maximize your time in Fresno.
How long does it take to fly from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
Flying from RIC to FAT with a connection usually takes about 8 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 2,315 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
You can fly first class between RIC and FAT. First class cabins are available on:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite 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 Fresno from Richmond Intl. (RIC)?
From Richmond Intl. (RIC), you can fly into Fresno Yosemite Intl. (FAT) to reach Fresno. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI) before reaching Fresno. 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) Fresno 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 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.)?
If you booked your Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.) to Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite 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. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Fresno Yosemite Intl. Airport |
Distance | 2,315 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, United, Alaska Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $353 |