Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) serves Washington, D.C., VA. Dulles is United's main hub for the nation's capital and handles most long-haul international service for the region. Call (800) 490-3234 to check live fares.
IAD at a glance
| Airport code | IAD |
|---|---|
| Serves | Washington, D.C., VA |
| Location | 38.95°, -77.46° |
| Standard time zone | Eastern (UTC-5) |
| Airline hubs | United Airlines |
| Nearby airports | Washington, D.C. (DCA), Baltimore (BWI) |
About Washington Dulles International Airport
Dulles is United's main hub for the nation's capital and handles most long-haul international service for the region. It is about 26 miles from downtown.
Airlines at IAD
United Airlines has a hub or major base here, which usually means more nonstop options and easier rebooking if a flight is disrupted.
Getting to and from IAD
Metro's Silver Line now runs to the airport, offering a rail option into Washington.
Best time to fly
International demand peaks in summer; weather disruptions are generally milder than in the Northeast.
Arrival and security tips
Plan to arrive about two hours before departure, and add time on holiday weekends, early mornings or when you check bags. Bring REAL ID-compliant identification or a passport. Our guide on arrival times covers the details.
Popular flights from and to IAD
Explore our guides for routes involving Washington, D.C.:
- Washington, D.C. to DenverIAD to DEN
- Washington, D.C. to Los AngelesIAD to LAX
- Washington, D.C. to San FranciscoIAD to SFO
- Washington, D.C. to SeattleIAD to SEA
Frequently asked questions about IAD
Which airlines operate at IAD?
United Airlines has a hub or major operation at IAD. Other carriers also serve it, and schedules change by season.
How do I get from IAD to Washington, D.C.?
Metro's Silver Line now runs to the airport, offering a rail option into Washington.
How early should I arrive at IAD?
A common guideline is about two hours before departure, and longer during holiday periods or when you are checking bags. Check your airline's cutoff times.
When is the best time to fly to Washington, D.C.?
International demand peaks in summer; weather disruptions are generally milder than in the Northeast.
Are there other airports near Washington, D.C.?
Yes. Options include Reagan National (DCA) and Baltimore/Washington (BWI). Compare fares and ground transport before choosing.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026. FlighTicketHub provides general information; confirm details with the airline before you travel.