Southwest® flights from Washington D.C. Reagan National to Austin from $180

A flight from Washington, D.C. to Austin connects you with one of Texas' most vibrant cities. Whether you’re traveling for a conference, a university visit, a live event, a weekend getaway, or just a look at the world’s largest urban bat colony (it’s here!), Southwest welcomes you with convenient routes from DCA to Austin that fit your schedule.

Washington D.C. (DCA) to Austin, TX (AUS) flight duration, distance, and route details

It helps to know what to expect from your DCA to AUS flight, whether you're finalizing a business presentation on the way to a tech conference or planning your South By schedule for a long weekend. Here are the details for your flight from Washington D.C. to Austin:

• Average flight time: About 3.5 to 4 hours
• Miles traveled (approximate): 1,300 to 1,500
• Time zone change: one hour (Eastern to Central Time)

Remember to claim your Southwest Rapid Rewards points on qualifying flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to Austin—and if you’re not already a Rapid Rewards member, activate your free membership today to enjoy perks like complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi.

Business and event travel between Washington, D.C. and Austin

DC to Austin flights are common for government, tech, startup, university, and conference travel. Major events like SXSW, Austin City Limits, and Formula 1 weekends also significantly increase flight and hotel demand throughout the year, so book ahead, especially if you're flying close to a major event. If you travel this route often, make sure to grab your Rapid Rewards points and check out our Business Travel page for ways to save more.

Getting from AUS to Austin and nearby areas

When your flight from Washington D.C. to Austin lands at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), getting downtown is straightforward. Trips by car typically take about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic, but you’ve got a variety of transportation choices:

• CapMetro public transit: Take the airport bus route for an affordable, direct ride into downtown from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, with stops near major hotels and attractions.
• Rideshares and taxis: Follow signs to the designated pickup area just outside baggage claim to request an Uber, Lyft, or taxi for a quick, door-to-door trip.
• Private car services and hotel shuttles: Book a ride in advance with a private car service, or check with your hotel ahead of time to see if they offer scheduled airport shuttle pickups.
• Rental cars: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility if you’re planning to explore areas beyond downtown like The Domain, Round Rock, or the Hill Country. Reserve your car ahead to make sure your wheels are good to go when you land.