The Washington, DC, area has three major airports. Washington Dulles International Airport is the most popular, with the most domestic and international flights in and out of
northern Virginia. However, it is less convenient for those living on the Maryland side of DC.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is another option near the heart of DC that’s both convenient and affordable.
Some visitors to DC will also choose to fly into Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. It’s also a reasonable choice for people heading to Northern Virginia.
If you live in DC, are relocating here, or just visiting, here is everything you need to know about Washington DC airports.
Dulles International Airport: Best for International Flights
Dulles International Airport was opened in 1962 and named after John Foster Dulles, who served as the U.S. Secretary of State from 1953 to 1959. It was built to serve as a more modern and convenient alternative to the congested National Airport (now Reagan National Airport) in Washington, D.C.
Throughout its history, Dulles International Airport has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in the region. Today, Dulles is a central hub for United Airlines and one of the country’s busiest airports, serving over 25 million passengers annually.
Location
The airport is located in Dulles, Virginia, 26 miles (42 km) west of downtown Washington D.C.
Airlines Served
Dulles International Airport is served by many major airlines, including:
- United Airlines (major hub)
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
- Air France
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- Emirates
- Turkish Airlines
- Etihad Airways
- Qatar Airways
Additionally, several regional and low-cost airlines operate flights to and from Dulles International Airport, such as JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. The airport also serves as a hub for several cargo airlines, including UPS and FedEx.
Airline Traffic
The number of planes that go through the airport varies daily and depends on many factors, such as weather conditions, air traffic control restrictions, and flight schedules. However, on average, Dulles International Airport handles around 700-800 arrivals and departures daily.
Traveling to the airport from Downtown D.C.
There are several ways to get from downtown Washington D.C. to Dulles International Airport, including:
- Metro Rail: The Silver Line of the Washington D.C. metro system provides direct service from downtown D.C. to Dulles. The Silver Line operates from L’Enfant Plaza and makes several stops along the way, including Rosslyn and Tysons Corner.
- Shuttle Bus: The 5A Metrobus operates between Dulles and the West Falls Church Metro Station, with stops at L’Enfant Plaza and other locations in D.C.
- Taxi or ride-hailing service: Taxis and ride-hailing services, such as Uber or Lyft, are available for passengers who prefer a more private transportation option. The estimated taxi fare from downtown D.C. to Dulles airport is approximately $60-70, depending on traffic conditions.
- Private car service: Several private car services also operate between downtown Washington D.C. and Dulles for those who prefer a more luxurious transportation experience.
Uber costs from Downtown D.C. to Dulles
The average Uber cost from downtown D.C. to Dulles is estimated to be around $60-$80. However, this can vary based on several factors, such as the time of day, traffic conditions, and the type of Uber service you choose.
Remember that prices change frequently and may be higher during peak travel times. It’s always best to check the Uber app for the most up-to-date and accurate fare estimate for your trip.
Airport Logistics
Dulles has four terminals (A, B, C, and D) connected by a mobile lounge system. The terminals are home to various shops, restaurants, and services for passengers.
- Restaurants: Dulles offers a wide range of dining options, including fast food chains, sit-down restaurants, and cafes. Some popular options include Starbucks, Five Guys, Uptown Market, and Fire Stone Kitchen.
- Parking Cost: Dulles International Airport offers several parking options for passengers, including hourly, daily, and long-term parking. Hourly parking rates start at $4 per hour, while daily parking rates start at $17 per day. Long-term parking rates start at $10 per day.
- Busiest Times: The busiest times are typically during the morning and evening rush hours, as well as weekends and holidays. It is always best to check the airport’s website for the most up-to-date information on wait times and potential delays.
- On-Time Records: According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics, Dulles International Airport had an on-time arrival rate of approximately 80% in recent years. However, this can vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic control restrictions, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: If You Need Convenience
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) was built in 1941 as a military airfield and later renamed Washington National Airport in 1948. The airport was renamed again in 1998 to honor former President Ronald Reagan.
In the 1980s, Ronald Reagan airport underwent significant renovations and upgrades, including new terminals, parking facilities, and other improvements. Recently, the airport has grown and evolved, adding new airlines and destinations.
Today, this airport is one of the busiest in the United States, serving over 20 million passengers annually. The airport offers flights to destinations across the United States and internationally, making it an essential gateway to the Washington, D.C., area. It is a hub for American Airlines and a focus city for Southwest Airlines.
Location
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located in Arlington County, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The airport’s physical address is 2401 Smith Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22202.
It is easily accessible from several major highways, including Interstates 395, 66, and 95, and several public transportation options, such as the Metrorail system and local bus service.
Airlines Served
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
- United Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Alaska Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Sun Country Airlines
The airport is also served by several regional airlines that operate under the banners of the major airlines. These airlines offer flights to various destinations, both domestically and internationally. The airlines and destinations served may change from time to time, so it is always best to check the airport’s website or contact the airlines directly for the most up-to-date information.
Airline Traffic
The average number of flights per day can vary greatly depending on many factors, such as seasonality, regional events, and changes in the airline industry. However, according to data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in 2019, the airport had an average of approximately 350-400 flights per day.
Traveling to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Downtown D.C.
The best way to get to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) from downtown D.C. depends on several factors, such as your personal preference, budget, and the time you have available. However, the following options are popular and convenient ways to get to the airport from downtown D.C.:
- Metrorail: Metrorail’s Yellow Line provides service to and from the airport, connecting to other lines in the Metrorail system. The airport is just a few stops away from downtown D.C. and provides a convenient, affordable, and fast option for getting to the airport.
- Taxi or ride-sharing services: Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown D.C. and can provide a convenient option for getting to the airport. These services are typically more expensive than public transportation, but they offer door-to-door service and can be more suitable for some travelers.
- Shuttle services: Several shuttle services are available for transportation to and from the airport, including hotel shuttle buses and private car services.
- Private car service: Several private car services also operate between downtown Washington D.C. and Reagan for those who prefer a more luxurious transportation experience.
Uber costs from Downtown D.C. to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
The cost of an Uber ride from downtown D.C. to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of day, demand, and the type of Uber service you choose.
The estimated cost of an UberX ride from downtown D.C. to DCA is approximately $15-$20, while an UberBLACK ride may be closer to $30-$40. These costs are subject to change, and using the Uber app or website is best to get an accurate trip fare estimate. Remember that surge pricing may apply during peak travel times or high demand.
Airport Logistics
- Airport Layout: DCA is relatively small, with three concourses (A, B, and C) and approximately 30 gates. The airport has a variety of shops, restaurants, and services for travelers, including a duty-free shop, newsstands, and several food and beverage options.
- Restaurants: DCA offers a range of dining options for travelers, including sit-down restaurants, cafes, and fast food options. Popular dining options at the airport include Five Guys, Legal Sea Foods, and Jamba Juice, among others.
- Parking Costs: DCA offers a variety of parking options, including hourly, daily, and long-term parking. The cost of parking varies depending on the lot type and length of stay, but as of 2022, daily parking in the terminal garages starts at around $25 per day.
- Busiest Times: DCA is a busy airport, and the busiest times are typically during peak travel, such as holidays and weekends. It is always best to check the airport’s website or contact the airport directly for the most up-to-date information on wait times and passenger volumes.
- On-Time Records: DCA is known for its high on-time performance, with flights departing and arriving on schedule more often than not. According to recent data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, DCA consistently ranks among the top airports in the U.S. for on-time performance.
Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) was initially established in 1950 as Friendship International Airport and was later renamed Baltimore-Washington International Airport in 1973.
In 1997, the airport was renamed Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport to honor the late Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.
Over the years, BWI has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building in the 1980s and the expansion of the terminal and parking facilities in the 1990s and 2000s.
BWI is now a significant airport in the mid-Atlantic region, serving over 27 million passengers annually with flights to destinations across the U.S. and internationally. The airport is known for its convenient location, easy access, and high on-time performance.
Location
The Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is located in Linthicum, Maryland, just south of Baltimore and north of Washington, D.C. The airport is situated in Anne Arundel County and is easily accessible from major highways and interstates in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, including I-95, I-195, and I-295.
Airlines Served
The Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is served by many major airlines, including:
- American Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Frontier Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
In addition to these major airlines, BWI also serves several regional airlines and charters. The airport offers flights to destinations throughout the United States and several international locations in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada.
Airline Traffic
BWI is a busy airport and handles about 650 flights each day. To get the most up-to-date information on BWI’s current flight schedule and traffic, you can check the airport’s website or contact the airport directly.
Traveling to Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport from Downtown D.C.
There are several options for traveling from downtown Washington, D.C. to Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). The best choice for you depends on your travel needs and preferences, including your trip’s cost, convenience, and time sensitivity.
Here are some of the most popular options for traveling from downtown D.C. to BWI:
- Driving: You can drive to BWI and park in one of the airport’s parking garages or lots. This option provides the most flexibility and control over your travel schedule but can also be time-consuming, especially during peak traffic hours.
- Ridesharing services: You can use a ridesharing service, such as Uber or Lyft, to get from downtown D.C. to BWI. This option is typically more convenient and time-sensitive than driving and can be less expensive than taking a taxi.
- Public transportation: You can take the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metrorail system to the Greenbelt station and transfer to the BWI Express bus, which provides service to BWI. This option is typically less expensive than taking a taxi or ridesharing service, but it may take longer and require multiple transfers.
- Taxi service: You can take a taxi from downtown D.C. to BWI. This option provides direct and convenient transportation to the airport, but it is typically more expensive than other options.
It is recommended to plan ahead and allow enough time for your travel, especially during peak traffic hours or inclement weather conditions.
Uber costs from Downtown D.C. to Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
The cost of an Uber from downtown Washington, D.C. to Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of day, demand for rides, traffic conditions, and the type of Uber service you choose (e.g., UberX, UberXL, UberBLACK).
As a rough estimate, an UberX ride from downtown D.C. to BWI can range from $35 to $50, while an UberBLACK ride can range from $60 to $90 or more. These estimates are based on normal traffic conditions and do not account for potential surge pricing during times of high demand.
It’s important to note that these estimates are subject to change. It’s always a good idea to check the estimated fare in the Uber app before confirming your ride to get the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
Airport Logistics
Layout: Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) has a single terminal with several concourses, each with multiple gates. The terminal has a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, including a post office, ATMs, and baggage storage facilities.
Restaurants: BWI has various dining options, including fast-food restaurants, cafes, and sit-down restaurants. Some popular options include Starbucks, Subway, Au Bon Pain, and Five Guys.
Parking Cost: BWI offers several parking options, including hourly, daily, and long-term parking. Hourly parking is located closest to the terminal and costs $4 per hour. Daily parking is a short shuttle ride from the terminal and costs $18 daily. Long-term parking is farther from the terminal and costs $12 daily.
Busiest times: The busiest times at BWI are typically on weekday mornings, evenings, and weekends. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and allow extra time for security checks and parking during these periods.
On-time records: The on-time performance of flights at BWI varies depending on the airline and the time of year. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics, BWI has a relatively high on-time arrival rate compared to other airports, with an average of 80% of flights arriving on time in recent years.
Which Washington DC Airport is Best?
It depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Reagan National Airport (DCA) is the closest airport to downtown Washington D.C. and is most convenient for travelers looking to be close to the city’s attractions.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located in the suburbs of Northern Virginia and is the best option for international travelers. It also has more direct flights to destinations across the world.
Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) is located in Baltimore, Maryland, and is a good choice for travelers looking for budget-friendly options, as flights to BWI can often be less expensive than those to DCA or IAD.
Are You Moving to Washington, DC?
If you’re relocating to the Washington, DC area (or already live here) and are looking for a home convenient to your favorite airport, let one of our experienced realtors at Eng Garica Properties help you find the best home for you!