Flight Check

RDU → DCA

RDU (Raleigh) to DCA (Washington)

RDU (Raleigh) to DCA (Washington) flights arrive on time 73% of the time. The most reliable airline on this route is American Airlines at 81%. The average delay is 73 minutes. Delays on this route are most often caused by the incoming plane arriving late.

Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Updated October 2026.

RDU → DCA on-time performance by month

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This route is delayed fairly often. About 73% of flights arrive on schedule.

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

Accurate?

American Airlines edges out Republic Airways on this route — 81% vs 71% on time.

Airline Comparison

American Airlines leads at 81% on time; Republic Airways trails at 71%.

Accurate?

Good to know

Departing from RDU

79% on time

Expect ~18 min sitting on the taxiway after your gate pushes back. RDU has long runway queues.

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

More about RDU →

Arriving at DCA

77% on time

When flights into DCA are late, the average delay is 78 minutes. Build buffer if you have ground plans.

If connecting at DCA: TSA is ~7 min right now. Allow at least 60 minutes for a domestic connection.

DCA has a 2.7% cancellation rate — keep the airline app handy for rebooking.

Flight cancelled or delayed?
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Data last updated October 2026. Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics.