Cheapest time to fly to Washington Dulles Airport (IAD)
Flights to Washington Dulles airport tend to be at their most expensive during the summer months. Search for Washington Dulles flights in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when return flights are likely to be cheaper, and you can enjoy the city in the milder weather. Peak times for cheap flights to Washington Dulles airport are in early December, January and February. Look out for great deals on last-minute flights during these months.
Flying to Washington Dulles
Washington Dulles airport is a large and busy airport, with one passenger terminal and two concourses. It is located approximately 25 miles away from downtown DC. Direct flights to Washington Dulles can be found with British Airways, FinnAir, United Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta Airlines, Austrian Airlines and Virgin Atlantic – so there is plenty of choice. Or you may find indirect flights are a cheaper option. In particular, Aer Lingus often have good deals on non-direct flights via a stopover in Dublin.
On arrival and getting around IAD
If you need to transfer between the buildings at Washington Dulles, you can opt to ride on a mobile lounge (Passenger transport vehicle), which are now being phased out in favour of the underground AeroTrains, or if you prefer to stretch your legs, you can use the subterranean pedestrian walkways. Concourse B is very modern, and full of good restaurants. There are over 30 places to eat in the airport, although the majority of them close at night. Information desks are found in the baggage claim areas of the airport. Overall, it is a busy, yet pleasant airport to fly from. Search Netflights to find return flights here and be presented with a plethora of choice.
Getting to the city from the airport
As is usual in US airports there is a big choice of car rental options at the airport (if your preference is to drive); with a 25-mile journey to the city, this may not be a bad option. Journey time to the city centre by car is approximately 40 minutes. However, the SuperShuttle and the Supreme Airport Shuttle are both good alternatives – they are private taxi services that will take you to your destination. Affordable public transport is available in the form of the Silver Line Express which will take you to the city centre from the Arrivals door for just five dollars each way.
Don't forget before you fly
You will need to apply online for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) before you catch your flights to Washington Dulles airport, this will grant you permission to enter the US as a tourist. We suggest completing the application at least three days before you depart. Once you have your approval, it stays valid for two years. Swap your pounds for US dollars before you leave, or use one of the many ATMS available throughout the airport when you arrive in the US.
