Other Destinations
Houston (IAH) to Atlanta (ATL) in October from $41
From $41
Houston (IAH) to Phoenix (PHX) in October from $54
From $54
Houston (IAH) to New Orleans (MSY) in October from $57
From $57
Houston (IAH) to Atlanta (ATL) in October from $61
From $61
Houston (IAH) to Denver (DEN) in October from $61
From $61
Houston (IAH) to Los Angeles (LAX) in October from $78
From $78
Flights from Other Cities
Chicago (ORD) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) in October from $108
From $108
San Francisco (SFO) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) in October from $128
From $128
Los Angeles (LAX) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) in October from $164
From $164
Atlanta (ATL) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) in October from $267
From $267
Las Vegas (LAS) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) in October from $322
From $322
Atlanta (ATL) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) in October from $334
From $334
✈️ Flight Guide: Houston (IAH) → Washington, D.C. (DCA)
Complete travel information for your October journey
Travelers departing George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in October will find steady nonstop service to Washington (All Airports) (DCA), with average nonstop flight times around 2 hours 50 minutes. October is prime time for lower fares compared with peak summer months; book 3–8 weeks ahead for best deals. Expect fall events in Washington to affect return fares — use fare alerts and flexible dates. Nearby major destinations accessible from IAH include downtown Houston, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Austin, and San Antonio, making IAH a convenient hub for wider Texas travel before your flight.
Departing from Houston (IAH) FAQs
Nonstop flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) typically take about 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours, depending on winds and routing. Connecting flights via hubs such as Charlotte (CLT), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), or Atlanta (ATL) can take 4.5 to 7+ hours total. For the fastest travel, book direct flights and check airline schedule buffers in October when weather can slightly affect timing.
Major carriers offering nonstop service on the IAH–DCA corridor commonly include United Airlines and American Airlines, with seasonal schedule adjustments in October. Additional options with one stop are available from carriers such as Delta and Southwest through hub cities. Compare schedules and fares across carriers to find the best balance of price and convenience.
To find cheap flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) in October, search 3–8 weeks in advance, use flight comparison tools, and be flexible with departure days — midweek flights often cost less. Set fare alerts for the IAH to DCA route and consider early-morning or late-evening departures to score lower prices. Use combination of primary keywords like 'cheap flights IAH to DCA' and location modifiers such as 'Houston to Washington October deals' when searching.
In October, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) may implement seasonal schedule adjustments as airlines update winter timetables; large-scale advisories are rare but check airline notices and IAH airport alerts before travel. Expect typical fall travel volumes tied to Columbus Day and university midterms that can slightly raise gate wait times. Always verify your flight status on the airline app and IAH's official website within 24 hours of departure.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers a range of ground transportation including rideshares (Uber/Lyft), taxis, airport shuttles, car rentals, and the METRO bus network connecting to regional transit hubs. In October, rideshare demand can spike during conventions and events, so pre-book car services or allow extra pickup time. If you plan to drive, major nearby destinations from IAH include downtown Houston, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, and Galveston.
Yes, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) features airline lounges (such as United Club and partner lounges), multiple dining options, retail shops, and charging stations across terminals. In October, many lounges and restaurants remain fully operational, though hours may vary on airline schedules — check individual lounge access policies and opening times. Plan lounge access in advance if you want a quieter preflight experience while traveling from Houston to Washington.
Arriving at Washington (All Airports) (DCA) in October offers easy access to fall foliage, museums, and seasonal events across the National Mall and nearby destinations like Arlington, Alexandria, and Baltimore. Metro access at Reagan National makes it simple to reach downtown Washington D.C., while frequent shuttle and rideshare options serve visitors heading to Annapolis or Richmond. October is a smart time to visit for mild weather and smaller crowds than peak summer; book accommodations early for weekend events and government ceremonies.
Arriving at Washington, D.C. (DCA) FAQs
Arrivals at Washington (All Airports) (DCA) typically include a compact terminal experience with easy access to the National Mall, Capitol Hill, and Arlington. From DCA you can reach downtown Washington D.C., Alexandria, and nearby Baltimore via metro, taxi, or shuttle; allow 30–60 minutes for ground transit depending on traffic. October arrivals may see increased demand due to fall tourism and government events, so plan ground transport ahead of time.
October in Washington D.C. usually brings mild temperatures and crisp fall weather, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) and occasional rain. While severe weather delays are uncommon in October, watch for localized thunderstorms and adjust connections accordingly. Pack a light jacket and check local forecasts before traveling from IAH to DCA.
Washington (All Airports) (DCA) offers convenient access to the Metrorail (Blue/Yellow lines at Reagan National), Metrobus, taxis, rideshares, and shuttle services connecting to Arlington, Alexandria, and downtown DC. In October, metro frequency remains reliable, but always check WMATA service advisories for planned maintenance. For nearby top destinations such as the National Mall, Georgetown, and Baltimore, plan multi-modal transfers depending on your itinerary.
Domestic arrivals at Washington (All Airports) (DCA) require valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or REAL ID-compliant credential. For international travelers connecting at IAH before arriving at DCA, follow CBP and TSA guidance for customs and security — though DCA primarily handles domestic inbound flights from IAH. Review TSA and airport signage upon arrival, and check for any October-specific security advisories.
October attracts fall festivals, military ceremonies, and school travel to Washington, which can increase passenger volumes at Washington (All Airports) (DCA) on weekends and around major events. Expect busier security lines during peak arrival windows; arrive a bit earlier for pick-ups and pre-book rideshares where possible. Check the local events calendar for the National Mall, Arlington events, and nearby Baltimore attractions to anticipate crowds.
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October Events & Festivals Near Washington (All Airports) (DCA) and Houston (IAH)
October brings fall festivals, Smithsonian and museum programs, and official government ceremonies in Washington D.C. that can increase hotel and flight demand at Washington (All Airports) (DCA). Notable events include the National Cherry Blossom off-season programming, museum exhibitions, and local fall festivals in nearby areas such as Baltimore and Annapolis. In Houston (IAH), October events like food festivals and cultural celebrations can affect outbound travel. Travelers should book flights early and check event calendars to avoid peak travel congestion.
Best Time to Fly from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) — October Advice
The best time to fly from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) in October is midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and outside of peak morning commute windows. Book flights 3–8 weeks in advance to access the lowest typical fares and avoid last-minute premium pricing. Early-morning flights are less likely to be delayed, while red-eye or late-evening departures can be cheaper. Use location-based search terms like 'Houston to Washington best time to fly October' to find targeted results.
Direct vs Connecting Flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA)
Nonstop flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) save time (roughly 2 hours 50 minutes) and reduce the stress of layovers, making them ideal for business travelers or tight itineraries. Connecting flights through hubs like Charlotte (CLT), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), or Atlanta (ATL) can offer lower fares or more schedule options but add layover time (often 1.5–4+ hours). In October, weigh the cost savings of a connection against added travel time and potential delays from autumn weather.
Airline Comparison for IAH to DCA in October — United vs American vs Delta
United Airlines and American Airlines commonly operate nonstop flights between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Washington (All Airports) (DCA), offering multiple daily frequencies and loyalty program benefits. Delta and other carriers provide one-stop options through their hubs if you prefer specific schedules or lower fares. Evaluate factors like baggage fees, seat selection, onboard amenities, and on-time performance when choosing an airline for October travel; use airline comparison queries such as 'United IAH to DCA October fare' to find tailored results.
Seasonal Travel Tips for IAH to DCA in October — Packing, Weather & Safety
October travel from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) benefits from mild fall weather — pack layers, a light waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes for National Mall excursions. Arrive at IAH 90 minutes before domestic departures during peak times and use mobile boarding passes to speed through security. For arrivals at DCA, prepare for efficient transfers via Metro or taxi; consider pre-booking rideshares for evening arrivals. Keep an eye on weather alerts and airline notifications; fall can bring isolated storms that temporarily affect schedules.
Extra Tips
- Pack versatile layers: daytime highs can be warm while mornings and evenings are cool.
- Use airline apps for real-time gate changes and boarding notifications to avoid delays.
- Book ground transport in advance when arriving at DCA on busy October weekends.
IAH to DCA Flight Time & Schedules in October — George Bush Intercontinental Airport to Washington (All Airports)
Typical nonstop flight time from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) is approximately 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours. Airlines usually operate multiple daily flights on this route; morning and evening departures are most common. Connecting options via Charlotte (CLT), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), or Atlanta (ATL) add 1.5–4 hours depending on layover length. For October trips, check airline timetables as carriers release winter schedules and adjust frequencies around government and tourism events.
Find Cheap Flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) in October
To secure cheap flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Washington (All Airports) (DCA) in October, book approximately 3–8 weeks before departure and be flexible with weekday travel. Use fare-comparison engines, set price alerts, and try adjacent airports or nearby days — early-morning and late-evening departures are often less expensive. Consider connecting flights through hubs like Charlotte (CLT) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) to unlock lower fares. For best results, search using long-tail keywords such as 'cheap IAH to DCA October nonstop' and monitor airline flash sales from United and American.
Tips
- Set fare alerts for the IAH to DCA route and monitor for 7–14 day price drops.
- Compare nonstop and one-stop itineraries; connecting flights can be cheaper by 20–40%.
- Use flexible date search +/-3 days to identify lower fares midweek.