Washington, D.C. Area Airports - Helpful Information for Passengers

Three major Airports serves the Washington DC area:

1). Reagan National Airport (Airport code: DCA) - Domestic Flights only and nearest to Washington DC

2). Dulles International Airport (Airport Code: IAD) - Operates both International and Domestic Flights and about 26 miles west of downtown Washington DC

3). Baltimore International Airport (Airport code: BWI) - Operates both International and Domestic Flights and about 30 miles northeast of downtown Washington DC

Dulles International Airport or Washington Dulles Airport is the largest of these three airports and provides the best direct connection for International destinations.

Passengers arriving from direct International flights need to go to Passport control to clear Immigration, pickup checked bags and clear customs at IAD or BWI Airports.

Many transportations options are available at these Washington. D.C. area airports.

Below is useful transportation options information in this Washington. D.C. area airport guide for arriving passengers.

Reagan National Airport (DCA) Transportation Options

Bus and DC Metro at Reagan National Airport (DCA):

The Washington, DC METRO rail/train system has an elevated METRO station directly connected by a bridge to the concourse level of Terminals B and C at Reagan National Airport.

From Terminal A:

- Exit the terminal and board any "Airport Shuttle" bus.

- Exit at any stop for Terminal B or C

Catch the DC Metrorail from the Airport to any DC area station.  

Check with your hotel for the nearest stop to your hotel.


Shared Vans at Reagan National Airport (DCA): 

Shared vans are good if traveling alone or late at night in the DC area from DCA Airport.

Proceed to the baggage claim area of Terminal A, B, or C at this Reagan Airport.

Prearrange a ride or speak with a representative at the Airport Shuttle counter at the Airport.

Taxi at Reagan National Airport (DCA):

Taxi cabs are available 24x7 at Reagan National Airport.

Click here for more transportation details for DCA
Dulles Airport (IAD) Transportation Options

By Silver Line Express Bus/ Metro from DULLES Airport:

The Silver Line Express Bus provides non-stop transportation with free Wi-Fi between the Dulles Airport Main Terminal and the Silver Line's Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail station (about 15 minutes).

Click here for detailed Silver Line Metro bus & Train information

From the Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail station transfer to Silver Line metro train station or take a taxi to your hotel. 

Many Airport hotels also offer free shuttles from this station.


The Silver line bus fare can be paid by cash or credit card, and service runs from 6AM-10:30PM.

Purchase tickets at the counter located inside Arrivals Door# 4 in the Main Terminal.


Public Buses at Washington Dulles Airport:

Board buses on the second divider after exiting baggage claim

Fairfax Connector Bus Route 981 and Route 983

Local bus with stops at the Smithsonian Udvar-Hazy Air & Space Museum.

Route 983 serves the museum and operates only during museum hours.

Route 981 operates outside of museum hours. Both routes serve locations in Reston, including the Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail station.

Metrobus Route 5A:   Bus to Rosslyn VA and L'Enfant Plaza in Washington, D.C.  Stops at Rosslyn Metrorail station (the Orange, Silver and Blue Lines)  Fare $7

Click here for more detailed information on public buses

Shared Vans at Washington Dulles International Airport:

The shared van counters are located on the lower level of the Main Terminal, down the ramps towards Door 2 and Door 6.

Shared Van at IAD Airport is a good idea for late arrivals and if traveling alone.

More information available at Supershuttle Website  and  Supreme Airport Shuttle Website


Taxi at Washington Dulles International Airport:

Taxi Cabs are located on the lower level of the Main Terminal, down the ramps outside Door 2 and Door 6. 

Click here for Taxi information at Dulles Airport.   

Private Transfer Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC in an SUV - $39.17
from: Viator
Hotel to Airport

Please check with a bellhop or concierge at your hotel on the most convenient way for your needs.

If taking public transit or returning a car, allow at least 2 hours.