Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) sits just across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, only about 4 miles from downtown DC, making it the closest major airport to any US capital city.
The Only DC Airport on the Metro
DCA has its own Metro station on the Blue and Yellow lines, a direct ride into downtown DC in about 15 to 20 minutes with no shuttle or rental car required, a real advantage over Dulles or BWI.
A Federal Perimeter Rule Shapes Its Routes
Federal rules have historically limited most nonstop flights from DCA to destinations within about 1,250 miles, though a limited number of exceptions allow some longer routes. This keeps DCA focused mostly on shorter domestic hops rather than long-haul or international flights.
Small, Busy, and Weather-Sensitive
DCA’s compact size and river-adjacent runways mean it’s more prone to weather-related delays than the region’s other airports, so building in extra connection time is worth it if your itinerary is tight.
DCA vs. Dulles vs. BWI
Choose DCA for the shortest possible trip into downtown DC on a domestic route within its perimeter. Choose Dulles for international or long-haul flights. Choose BWI if Southwest serves your route or you don’t mind a train connection instead of the Metro.
Search live fares into DCA above.