United Airlines Connecting East Coast Hub to Jackson Hole With Direct Flights

Originally posted on Powder | By Izzy Lidsky | Last updated Jun 10, 2025 3:06 PM ET

One of the many charms of Jackson Hole, Wyoming is that it's relatively in the middle of nowhere.

Unlike some world-class ski destinations, there's no large-scale international airport less than an hour down the road, or a shuttle up from the nearest metropolitan city. Wyoming is the least populated state in the country, after all.

However, Jackson's middle of nowhere-ness can also make it a real pain to travel to, especially during the winter months, when weather in and out of the Jackson Hole airport, as well as some of the major connecting hubs like Denver and Salt Lake, can have huge impacts on travel plans.

That's why United Airlines' new direct flights from Washington Dulles (IAD) to the Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is great news for east coast travelers looking for a Cowboy State getaway.

Direct flights from IAD to JAC via United Airlines Boeing 737-700 will begin on December 20, 2025. The airline plans to operate the flight on Saturdays, departing from IAD at 9:00 a.m. and touching down in JAC at 11:40 a.m. (enough time for some afternoon ski laps, if you ask me!). Returning flights will depart from Jackson at 2:30 p.m. and touch down in DC at 8:45 p.m.

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In recent years, United Airlines has made efforts to provide better access for premium passengers within its domestic markets. While perhaps Jackson Hole's most premium visitors are arriving on the tarmac in Grand Teton National Park (the only airport in a national park!) via private jet, there's still a large amount of high paying passengers hoping to take advantage of Jackson Hole's luxury lodging and world-class skiing.

The new direct flights from IAD to JAC mean an easy trip for east coasters looking to flying commercial.

Despite a commercial flight, these direct flights aren't cheap. A ticket from another major United hub in Denver, to JAC during peak holiday season weekends will cost you roughly $1,400. According to the United Airlines website, a round trip from IAD to JAC in economy will run a similar price, whereas a business/first class ticket is more like $3,700.

But hey, what's a little extra cash to not have to worry about your ski bag making the connection?

This article first appeared on Powder and was syndicated with permission.

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