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Flight Check

DCATPA

DCA (Washington) to TPA (Tampa)

DCA (Washington) to TPA (Tampa) flights arrive on time 76% of the time. The most reliable airline on this route is Southwest Airlines at 79%. The average delay is 78 minutes. Delays on this route are most often caused by the incoming plane arriving late.

Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Updated April 2026.

DCA → TPA on-time performance by month

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This route is on time most of the time. About 76% of flights arrive on schedule.

Delays on this route are most often caused by the incoming plane arriving late.

Accurate?

Southwest Airlines edges out American Airlines on this route — 79% vs 74% on time.

Airline Comparison

Southwest Airlines leads at 79% on time; American Airlines trails at 74%.

Accurate?

Good to know

Departing from DCA

79% on time

Expect ~19 min sitting on the taxiway after your gate pushes back. DCA has long runway queues.

TSA is currently ~14 min. Best time: 4 AM (about 5 min).

DCA cancels 2.6% of flights — higher than average. Have a backup plan.

More about DCA

Arriving at TPA

79% on time

When flights into TPA are late, the average delay is 70 minutes. Build buffer if you have ground plans.

If connecting at TPA: TSA is ~12 min right now. Allow at least 60 minutes for a domestic connection.

TPA has a 2.1% cancellation rate — keep the airline app handy for rebooking.

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Data last updated April 2026. Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics.