Washington, D.C. Airport Delays
Compare DCA, IAD, BWI side by side — live status, delays, and TSA wait times.
Airport Comparison
| DCA | IAD | BWI | |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-time rate | 77% | 82% | 79% |
| TSA wait | ~16m | ~7m | ~17m |
| Avg delay | 78m | 75m | 60m |
| Cancel rate | 2.7% | 1.3% | 1.4% |
Which Washington, D.C. airport should you use?
Based on historical data, IAD has the best on-time performance in the metro at 82%. DCA is the closest to downtown and the fastest to get through, but has limited long-haul routes. Dulles handles most international flights. BWI is the Southwest hub and often has the cheapest fares.
Common questions about Washington, D.C. airports
Which Washington, D.C. airport has the fewest delays?
IAD (Dulles) has the best on-time rate at 82%.
Which Washington, D.C. airport is easiest to get to?
DCA (Reagan) is the closest to downtown — just across the river and connected by Metro. IAD and BWI are farther out.
Which Washington, D.C. airport is best for domestic flights?
DCA has the most domestic flights relative to its size. BWI is a Southwest hub with lots of domestic routes. IAD skews more international.
Are there delays at Washington, D.C. airports right now?
No active delays reported at any Washington, D.C. area airport right now.