Dallas (DFW) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) is about 1,190 miles and typically takes 2 h 55 min by air. Some carriers have hubs at both ends, which makes frequent nonstops more likely. Call (800) 490-3234 for live fares.
DFW to DCA at a glance
| Route | Dallas (DFW) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) |
|---|---|
| Distance | about 1,190 miles / 1,910 km |
| Typical flight time | 2 h 55 min (estimate) |
| Time difference | 1 hours ahead |
| Route type | Domestic (U.S.) |
| Airlines with hubs here | American Airlines |
About the Dallas to Washington, D.C. route
Dallas to Washington, D.C. covers about 1,190 miles, a mid-length domestic trip that most airlines can serve nonstop or with one easy connection.
Flight time and distance
A typical flight takes about 2 h 55 min gate to gate, with a realistic range of 2 h 40 min to 3 h 25 min depending on wind, routing and aircraft. That is an estimate based on the distance of roughly 1,190 miles (1,910 km), not a published schedule.
Washington, D.C. is 1 hour ahead of Dallas on standard time, so the arrival time on your ticket will look different from the flight duration.
Among the 200 routes in our guides, DFW to DCA is longer than about 44% of them.
For comparison, Dallas to Los Angeles (DFW to LAX) is about 1,230 miles, so Washington, D.C. is a bit closer away from DFW.
The airports
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW is American Airlines' largest hub, so nearly every itinerary through Texas can be built with one connection. Full DFW guide.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Reagan National is the closest airport to downtown Washington and sits just across the Potomac River. Full DCA guide.
Other airports are worth a look: around Dallas, Dallas Love Field; and around Washington, D.C., Dulles (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington (BWI). Comparing them can change the price or the travel time to your final destination.
Airlines on this route
American Airlines has a hub at both ends, so it is the most likely to offer frequent nonstop service and easy rebooking on this route.
Airlines add and drop frequencies throughout the year. Our agents can check what is actually scheduled on your dates.
Common connection points
Connecting itineraries on this route often look like American Airlines via Charlotte (CLT), which adds about 80 miles (6% beyond the direct distance). Choose the connection with the best weather odds for your travel month and leave a comfortable layover; our layover guide explains how much time is realistic.
Best time to fly
For this trip, keep in mind that at DCA, congress's schedule and cherry blossom season in late March and April push prices up. At DFW, spring thunderstorms are the most common cause of delays; hail and severe weather can disrupt the hub for hours.
Ground transport
Getting to and from DFW
Trinity Metro's TEXRail and DART's Orange Line both reach the airport.
Getting to and from DCA
The Metro Blue and Yellow lines stop at the terminal and reach central Washington in minutes.
Booking tips
Fares on routes with strong business demand rarely drop sharply at the last minute. Book once your dates are firm and review the 24-hour rule in case plans change.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from Dallas to Washington, D.C.?
A typical DFW to DCA flight takes about 2 h 55 min, with a likely range of 2 h 40 min to 3 h 25 min. Actual time depends on wind, routing, aircraft and whether you connect.
How far is Washington, D.C. from Dallas by air?
The great-circle distance between DFW and DCA is about 1,190 miles (1,910 km).
Which airlines fly from Dallas to Washington, D.C.?
American Airlines has a major presence at DFW or DCA, and service varies by season. Ask us to check current nonstop and connecting options.
What is the time difference between Dallas and Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C. is 1 hour ahead of Dallas on standard time. Daylight saving time can change the gap for part of the year.
Are there other airports near Dallas?
Yes. Nearby alternatives include Dallas Love Field. Comparing them can change both fare and travel time.
When is the best time to book DFW to DCA?
Domestic fares are often competitive one to three months ahead, while international trips benefit from more lead time. Compare several dates, since fares are priced flight by flight.
Explore related routes
More flights involving Dallas (DFW)
- Atlanta to DallasATL to DFW
- Charlotte to DallasCLT to DFW
- Chicago to DallasORD to DFW
- Dallas to BostonDFW to BOS
- Dallas to Las VegasDFW to LAS
- Dallas to MiamiDFW to MIA
More flights involving Washington, D.C. (DCA)
- Boston to Washington, D.C.BOS to DCA
- Chicago to Washington, D.C.ORD to DCA
- Miami to Washington, D.C.MIA to DCA
- New York to Washington, D.C.LGA to DCA
- Washington, D.C. to CharlotteDCA to CLT
- Washington, D.C. to Los AngelesDCA to LAX
Last reviewed October 22, 2026. FlighTicketHub provides general information; confirm details with the airline before you travel.