✈️ Flight Guide: Charlottesville (CHO) → Seattle (SEA)

Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO) does not operate nonstop flights to Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA); travelers typically connect through hub airports such as Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), or Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). In October, American Airlines is the most common carrier routing CHO–CLT–SEA, while other itineraries use United or Delta via their respective hubs. Check airline schedules and book early to lock in October connections and seats.

Total travel time from Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO) to Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) generally ranges from about 6.5 to 10+ hours door-to-door depending on the length of the connection. Actual airborne time is roughly 6 to 6.5 hours (CHO to a hub + hub to SEA), and October schedules can add variability due to seasonal timetables and weather. For the smoothest trip, choose a single-carrier itinerary with a reliable minimum connection time.

Parking at Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO) is straightforward with short-term and long-term lots close to the terminal; October typically sees moderate demand due to fall travel and University of Virginia events. Rideshares, local shuttles, and rental cars are readily available—book rental cars in advance if you plan a weekend getaway as fall foliage increases local demand. Leave extra time during UVA home football weekends in October, when passenger volumes can be higher.

Yes, October often brings minor seasonal schedule adjustments as airlines shift to fall schedules; CHO may have slight changes in evening and weekend flights to hubs like Charlotte (CLT) or Dulles (IAD). Monitor your airline's schedule 2–3 weeks before departure and enroll in flight alerts for real-time updates. Booking with carriers that publish consistent hub connections reduces the chance of disruptive changes.

To find cheap CHO to SEA flights in October, search flexible dates, compare multi-airline itineraries through hub cities (CLT, IAD, PHL), and set price alerts for 4–8 weeks before travel; October is shoulder season so fares can be lower than summer. Use airline websites and meta-search engines, and consider midweek departures or red-eye connections to reduce cost. Book refundable or changeable fares if your travel plans might shift during fall events.

October is a popular month in Charlottesville for fall foliage and UVA events, so arrive early for departures, especially on weekends. Pack layers for variable East Coast-to-Pacific weather, verify connection times at your hub airport, and carry on essentials (chargers, a jacket) because checked-bag delays can occur during busier weekends. For smooth transit, enroll in TSA PreCheck and confirm parking or shuttle reservations in advance.

Arrivals at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in October typically see mild, cool weather with occasional rain—pack a waterproof layer. Immigration and baggage claim are efficient, but allow extra time if your inbound flight arrives during evening peak hours or if there are connections from East Coast flights. For onward travel, major nearby destinations include Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Everett, Portland (OR), and Vancouver (BC).

Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers Link light rail direct to downtown Seattle, shuttle buses, taxis, rideshares, and multiple rental car agencies—all reliable in October. Light rail is often the fastest way into central Seattle during weekday and weekend travel; check schedules for any special event adjustments. If you're heading to Tacoma, Bellevue, Everett, or Portland, consider shuttle services or connecting regional transit.

October weather in the Puget Sound region is generally stable but can include low clouds and rain that occasionally delay flights; coastal storms are more common later in the season. Check airline alerts and the FAA status page before travel, and allow a buffer for connections if flying from the East Coast. Travelers should also be aware of shorter daylight hours and pack accordingly.

After landing at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in October, popular nearby destinations include downtown Seattle (Pike Place Market, Space Needle), Tacoma’s Museum District, Bellevue shopping and dining, Snoqualmie Falls for fall foliage, and day trips to Mount Rainier National Park for early-season hikes. October is ideal for fall colors and seafood festivals; plan reservations for popular restaurants and book tours in advance.

To save on last-mile transport during October events at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), use Link light rail during non-peak hours, book shared shuttle services early, or look for promo codes on rideshare apps. For groups, reserve airport shuttles or private vans in advance to secure better rates. Monitor local event calendars—NHL, festivals, and college homecomings—to anticipate price surges and plan accordingly.

Domestic arrivals from Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO) to Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) only require a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or REAL ID-compliant card) for TSA and airport procedures. If traveling from outside the U.S., ensure your passport, visas, and customs declarations are in order. Check TSA and CBP (if international) guidelines for updated identification requirements before traveling in October.