We’re thrilled to share exciting news for travelers in the Ithaca region! Starting March 30, 2025, United Airlines will launch direct flights between Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). This highly anticipated route will offer twice-daily service on 50-seat jets, perfectly timed to provide seamless same-day trips to Washington, DC, and connections to United’s extensive global network.

The return of this route represents a major milestone for ITH, offering enhanced connectivity and convenience for our community. Even better, a third flight will be added in August 2025, further expanding travel options for residents and visitors alike.

Why Washington Dulles International Airport?

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is a premier hub for domestic and international travel, offering unparalleled connectivity:

• United Airlines operates 250 daily flights from IAD, increasing to 280 flights by April 2025.
• Direct access to over a dozen world capitals, including Rome, Tokyo, Paris, and Mexico City.
• A new Metro rail line connects the airport directly to downtown Washington, DC, in under an hour, making it easy and affordable to explore the nation’s capital.

What They’re Saying

Roxan Noble, Director of Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, says:
“We are excited to welcome United Airlines’ direct service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). These new flights will offer our travelers more consistent and convenient connections to the nation’s capital and United’s extensive global network. This route is a significant step forward in enhancing connectivity for our community.”

Dan Klein, Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature, shared his excitement:
“Tompkins County may be centrally isolated, but we want and need to be connected to the world. Having a direct flight to Washington, DC will provide economic benefit and improved travel options for Tompkins County and for our region. I believe these flights will be very popular.”

Lisa Holmes, Tompkins County Administrator, echoed this sentiment:
“We’re thrilled that ITH will be offering these new direct flights to Washington, DC, providing travelers from Tompkins County and surrounding areas with greater options for connectivity and convenience.”

Heather McDaniel, President of Ithaca Area Economic Development, highlighted the economic benefits:
“Restoring United Airlines service to Washington, DC provides convenient connections for the most frequently traveled destinations in the United States and over 105 international connections. Thanks to the dedicated staff at ITH, United’s new service will not only increase connectivity for local travelers, but also increase revenue to the airport, which like many other regional airports, has struggled to regain market share post-pandemic.”

Ben Sanchez, United Airlines Managing Director of Domestic Planning, expressed United’s commitment:
“We are excited that Ithaca marks the 15th new domestic destination announced for Washington Dulles this year. IAD is becoming the best connecting airport on the east coast and this twice-daily service provides Central New York travelers with seamless access to both our nation’s capital and United’s robust global network.”

Convenient Travel from ITH to IAD

Traveling to Washington, DC, and beyond has never been easier. With two daily flights (and a third flight starting in August 2025), Ithaca travelers can enjoy:

• Convenient schedules for same-day trips or longer stays in Washington, DC.
• Access to United’s growing domestic and international network.
• Hassle-free connections to global destinations through IAD’s newly expanded facilities.

Whether you’re planning a business trip, a weekend getaway to DC, or an international adventure, this new route offers the flexibility and convenience you need.

Book Your Flight

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore Washington, DC, and connect to destinations worldwide. Tickets for flights between Ithaca and Washington Dulles are available now at united.com.

Join us as we embark on this new chapter of air service at ITH. Fly Local. Reach Far.

Click here for the ITH_Press Release United Airlines Launching ITH to IAD Flights in 2025

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