SAN (San Diego) to DCA (Washington) flights arrive on time 62% of the time. The most reliable airline on this route is Alaska Airlines at 61%. The average delay is 55 minutes. Delays on this route are most often caused by air traffic and busy airspace.
Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Updated March 2026.SAN → DCA
SAN (San Diego) to DCA (Washington)
SAN → DCA on-time performance by month
This route is frequently delayed. About 62% of flights arrive on schedule.
Delays on this route are most often caused by air traffic and busy airspace.
Good to know
Departing from SAN
80% on timeExpect ~18 min sitting on the taxiway after your gate pushes back. SAN has long runway queues.
TSA is currently ~5 min. Best time: 4 AM (about 5 min).
Arriving at DCA
79% on timeWhen flights into DCA are late, the average delay is 74 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 2.6% cancellation rate — keep the airline app handy for rebooking.
Know before you go
Flying SAN → DCA? We'll brief you before takeoff.
Know someone flying soon?
Send them the link — delay data, TSA waits, weather, all free.
Data last updated March 2026. Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics.