Cheap Flights to Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and one of the country's most visited destinations for government, business, history, and culture. Home to the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and countless monuments and memorials, the city welcomes millions of domestic and international visitors every year. The Washington metropolitan area is served by three major commercial airports, giving travelers flexibility based on airline, destination, and budget. Travobooker compares fares across every Washington-area airport and hundreds of airlines, helping you find the best available flight in minutes. Every fare includes taxes, fuel surcharges, and our service fee, with no hidden charges added during checkout.

Washington, D.C. Airports

Three major commercial airports serve the Washington metropolitan area. Choosing the right airport depends on where you are staying, your airline, and whether you are traveling domestically or internationally.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is the closest airport to Downtown Washington, D.C., located approximately 5 miles south of the National Mall along the Potomac River. The airport primarily serves domestic destinations and a limited number of international routes with U.S. Customs preclearance. American Airlines maintains a major hub at DCA, alongside services from Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines. The airport is directly connected to the Washington Metro Blue and Yellow Lines, allowing passengers to reach Downtown Washington in approximately 20 minutes.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Washington Dulles International Airport is located approximately 26 miles west of Downtown Washington in Northern Virginia and serves as the region's primary international gateway. It is a major hub for United Airlines and offers nonstop service to destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Travelers can reach the city using the Washington Metro Silver Line, airport shuttle services, taxis, ride-share options, and rental cars. Dulles is the preferred airport for most long-haul international flights.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Baltimore/Washington International Airport is situated approximately 32 miles northeast of Downtown Washington and serves both the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas. Southwest Airlines operates its largest East Coast base at BWI, while American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and several international carriers also provide scheduled service. MARC and Amtrak rail connections, combined with shuttle buses, make travel to Washington convenient for many visitors.

Popular Routes to Washington, D.C.

New York to Washington, D.C.
Boston to Washington, D.C.
Chicago to Washington, D.C.
Atlanta to Washington, D.C.
Miami to Washington, D.C.
Orlando to Washington, D.C.
Dallas to Washington, D.C.
Houston to Washington, D.C.
Denver to Washington, D.C.
Phoenix to Washington, D.C.
Seattle to Washington, D.C.
San Francisco to Washington, D.C.
Los Angeles to Washington, D.C.
Toronto to Washington, D.C.
Montreal to Washington, D.C.
London to Washington, D.C.
Paris to Washington, D.C.
Frankfurt to Washington, D.C.
Tokyo to Washington, D.C.
Doha to Washington, D.C.

Airlines Flying to Washington, D.C.

The following airlines operate regular services to Washington, D.C. across Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore/Washington International Airport. Available airlines vary depending on route and travel dates.

United Airlines
American Airlines
Delta Air Lines
Southwest Airlines
JetBlue
Alaska Airlines
Spirit Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Air Canada
British Airways
Lufthansa
Air France
KLM
Turkish Airlines
Qatar Airways
Emirates
Virgin Atlantic
Icelandair
Aer Lingus
ANA
Ethiopian Airlines
Swiss International Air Lines

Best Time to Visit Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a year-round destination, with each season offering different attractions, events, and travel experiences.

Spring (March to May) is widely considered the best time to visit. The city's famous cherry blossoms bloom around the Tidal Basin, attracting visitors from around the world. Comfortable temperatures make it ideal for walking the National Mall, visiting museums, and exploring historic neighborhoods. Airfare and hotel rates increase during the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures and higher humidity. Families visit during school holidays to explore the Smithsonian museums, monuments, and government landmarks. Independence Day celebrations on July 4 attract particularly large crowds, making early booking advisable.

Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds than spring. September and October are excellent months for sightseeing, while hotel availability generally improves after the busy summer travel season.

Winter (December to February) is the quietest tourism period outside the holiday season. Visitors enjoy festive decorations, museum visits, and shorter queues at major attractions. January and February often provide some of the year's lowest airfare.

Tips for Booking Cheap Flights to Washington, D.C.

Compare fares across all three Washington-area airports before booking.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is the most convenient for Downtown Washington, D.C.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) offers the widest selection of international flights.
Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) frequently provides excellent value on domestic routes.

January, February, September, and early November generally offer some of the lowest airfare. Spring during the Cherry Blossom Festival, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and major political events typically increase travel demand.

Booking your flight four to seven weeks before departure often provides good value for domestic travel. International travelers generally benefit from booking several months in advance, particularly during peak tourism periods.

Travobooker's flexible payment option allows you to reserve your booking by paying 50% upfront and settle the remaining balance up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airport should I fly into for Washington, D.C.?

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is the most convenient option for Downtown Washington. Washington Dulles International Airport is the preferred airport for most international flights, while Baltimore/Washington International Airport often offers competitive fares for domestic travelers.

How do I get from Washington Dulles International Airport to Downtown Washington?

The Washington Metro Silver Line provides direct rail access between Dulles Airport and Downtown Washington. Taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and rental cars are also available.

What is the best time of year to visit Washington, D.C.?

Spring is the most popular season thanks to the National Cherry Blossom Festival and comfortable weather. Autumn also offers pleasant temperatures, smaller crowds, and excellent sightseeing conditions.

Which airlines operate the most flights to Washington, D.C.?

United Airlines operates a major hub at Washington Dulles International Airport, while American Airlines maintains a significant hub at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Southwest Airlines has a large presence at Baltimore/Washington International Airport, alongside numerous domestic and international carriers.

Is Washington, D.C. a good destination for international travelers?

Yes. Washington Dulles International Airport offers nonstop service to major cities across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, making the capital easily accessible from destinations around the world.