American Airlines has round-trip flights from Austin (AUS) to Pittsburgh, Detroit, Columbus, Indianapolis, or Albuquerque (PIT, DTW, CMH, IND, ABQ) for $178-$188 with a connection. Flights October to December. Departures on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Extended weekends available. Origin/Destination reversible. No Christmas dates available.
A Carry-on bag and also a personal item is allowed for free on American. You can avoid paying for seat selection by accepting the randomly assigned seat at the gate.