Flying from Columbus to Washington DC: what you need to know
Begin your trip planning by checking out the most convenient departure point for your flight from Columbus to Washington DC. Explore the options for setting off from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) or Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), two of the city's main airports.
Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) are the major arrival points in Washington DC.
Around 1 hour 20 minutes is how long you'll be travelling on a direct Columbus to Washington DC flight.
Columbus and Washington DC are in the UTC-4 timezone. This means you won't need to account for any time differences.
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) is the most popular route that connects these two cities. There are 37 weekly departures to pick from. If you prefer a later start to the day, the last flight from Columbus to Washington DC is with American Airlines at 20:14. Opt for the first CMH to DCA departure with American Airlines at 05:17 to make the most of your arrival in Washington DC.
Leave plenty of time to catch your Columbus to Washington DC flight. As a general rule, turn up two hours before international departures and an hour ahead for domestic flights.
During popular months such as July, you'll want to get to the airport earlier than usual. Arrive two hours before domestic departures and four hours ahead of an international flight whenever you're flying during peak periods in general.
How to find the cheapest flights from Columbus to Washington DC
Right now, $124 is the best price we've seen for a one-way ticket from Columbus to Washington DC. The cheapest price for a return flight is $277. Remember fares may change due to demand at the time of booking.
To secure cheap Columbus to Washington DC flights, reserve your trip three months before your planned departure.
The best month for scoring cheap plane tickets from Columbus to Washington DC is June. Use the 'Whole month' tool to compare prices, then choose the dates that offer the biggest savings.
Save time searching for cheap flights from Columbus to Washington DC by setting up a Price Alert. You'll receive an email or notification through the app when a lower fare becomes available.
Choose your ideal arrival and departure times, number of stops and airlines by using the filters. Alternatively, sort your Columbus to Washington DC flight results by 'Cheapest,' 'Fastest' or 'Best.'
Flying from Columbus
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
You can travel directly to Washington DC leaving from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). Here are some airports you can jet right into when searching for your flight from Columbus to Washington DC:
Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA)
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Baltimore/Wash International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
You can choose from a range of carriers offering direct Columbus to Washington DC plane tickets with departures from CMH, including:
Located around 10 kilometres from central Columbus, CMH can be reached in about 10 minutes by car (depending on traffic). The journey on public transport takes roughly 1 hour 5 minutes.
Want a relaxed start to your travels? Stay near John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Whether you've booked an early flight from Columbus to Washington DC or just don't like being rushed, these hotels are the answer:
Of the departures from John Glenn Columbus International Airport, 79.5% arrive as scheduled at their destination.
The address for CMH is 4600 International Gateway.
Arriving in Washington DC
Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA)
Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) to central Washington DC takes about 15 minutes by car. The centre is roughly 5 kilometres away.
Travelling to the centre by public transport typically takes 45 minutes.
Consider booking a hotel near DCA if you're coming in on a late flight from Columbus to Washington DC. Pick one of these accommodation options and avoid the hassle of a long transfer:
Say yes to new adventures by picking up a Ronald Reagan National Airport rental car. Grab your wheels from Thrifty, Sixt or Dollar and explore beyond Washington DC's main sights.
Get the best deal by reserving your vehicle from Ronald Reagan National Airport about four weeks in advance of your trip.
You'll find DCA at 1 Aviation Circle.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is around 40 kilometres from central Washington DC. Following your flight from Columbus to Washington DC, it takes approximately 50 minutes to get to the heart of the city in a cab or ride-share.
If you hop on public transport, you'll reach the centre in 1 hour 10 minutes or so.
After your flight from Columbus to Washington DC, tuck yourself in at a hotel near IAD. These are some comfortable options that'll help you get into relaxation mode:
The quickest way to reach your destination is with a Washington Dulles International Airport rental car. Pick up a set of wheels from Dollar, Thrifty or Sixt and set off in the blink of an eye.
Avoid paying extra. Securing your ride one week before your arrival at IAD will help you stay within budget.
You'll find Washington Dulles International Airport at 1 Saarinen Circle.
Baltimore/Wash International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
Set off for the city centre after your flight from Columbus to Washington DC has arrived. Central Washington DC is around 40 kilometres from Baltimore/Wash International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and takes roughly 50 minutes to reach by car.
The journey will take roughly 1 hour 30 minutes on public transport.
Enjoy a restful, unhurried start to your trip by checking in to a hotel near BWI after your Columbus to Washington DC flight. Recharge after a day of travel or simply take a moment to get your bearings in a new city at:
Whether you want a budget-friendly compact for a solo trip or a spacious SUV to fit the family, you'll find the ideal Baltimore/Wash International Thurgood Marshall Airport rental car for your needs. Check out wheels available here from names such as Dollar, Thrifty and Budget.
About two weeks ahead of your flight from Columbus to Washington DC is a good time to secure your vehicle from BWI. You're likely to snag a better deal or get access to early bird discounts.
Best time to go to Washington DC
February is the busiest month for flights from Columbus to Washington DC. To steer clear of the crowds, go to Washington DC in May.
When booking your Columbus to Washington DC tickets, think about the kind of weather forecast you're hoping for. July is the warmest month in Washington DC, with temperatures ranging from 19ºC to 33ºC.
Look for cheap flights from Columbus to Washington DC in January if you'd rather travel during cooler conditions. Temperatures are at their lowest then, ranging between -6ºC and 10ºC on average.
More about Washington DC
Start your Washington DC trip right by choosing the ideal place to stay. Once you've booked your flight from Columbus to Washington DC, explore our selection of hotels including:
All great journeys should include a little sightseeing. White House Historical Association, The White House and National Mall are must-do's during your Washington DC adventure.
Explore more of United States
You've visited Washington DC, now it's time to explore more of United States. Travel around 322 kilometres north-east to New York to check off its top attractions. From Statue of Liberty to Central Park and Empire State Building, you've got a jam-packed schedule ahead.
If you're interested in discovering another corner of United States, head for Philadelphia, roughly 193 kilometres north-east of Washington DC. Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and Philadelphia Museum of Art are among the biggest draws.