Cheap Flights to Des Moines, IA

Popular airlines to Des Moines

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Alternative airports near Des Moines

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to Des Moines

Flights to Des Moines at a glance

Traveling to Des Moines is a breeze—select between full-service and budget airlines, compare travel durations, and find the option that best fits your budget and itinerary as you prepare to discover the city’s renowned attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around Des Moines: Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO)
  • Closest airport to Des Moines: Des Moines International Airport, DSM (within Des Moines)
  • Flights per week: 1,950+ flights arriving across Des Moines airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Des Moines: around 10+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Des Moines

Des Moines is a vibrant city that caters to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and business travelers alike. Visitors flock to this metropolitan hub for its diverse entertainment options and scenic outdoor activities. It is conveniently accessible via two major airports.

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM): Situated in Polk County, Iowa, this airport caters to both domestic and international travelers, providing connections to over 175 domestic cities and 45 international destinations. Passengers can opt for first class or premium economy service for enhanced comfort, depending on their chosen airlines and routes. Major carriers include American Airlines, United, and Delta.
  • Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO): Found in Black Hawk County, Iowa, approximately 91 miles from Des Moines, this airport focuses on domestic flights, linking passengers to around 6 cities nationwide. American Airlines is the primary airline operating from this location, offering reliable service for travelers.

Top routes to Des Moines

  • Denver (DEN) to Des Moines (DSM), with one-way airfare from around $45
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Des Moines (DSM), with one-way flights starting at around $90
  • Orlando (MCO) to Des Moines (DSM), with one-way tickets available from around $70
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Des Moines (DSM), with one-way tickets available from around $120
  • Seattle (SEA) to Des Moines (ALO/DSM), with one-way fares starting at around $140

Cheapest routes to Des Moines

  • Denver (DEN) to Des Moines (DSM), with affordable one-way prices from around $45
  • St. Louis (STL) to Des Moines (DSM), with low one-way fares from around $50
  • Orlando (MCO) to Des Moines (DSM), with low one-way fares from around $70
  • Houston (IAH/HOU) to Des Moines (DSM), with cheap one-way fares from around $85
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Des Moines (DSM), with budget one-way fares from around $90

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Des Moines

  • American Airlines: Servicing both Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM), American Airlines represents about 36% of arrivals in Des Moines. The typical one-way fare hovers around $280, with potential premium cabin options including first class, depending on the specific route.
  • United: Operating flights to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), United comprises roughly 27% of arrivals in the area. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $300, and premium cabin options may feature first class, based on the route taken.
  • Delta: Providing service to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Delta accounts for approximately 21% of arrivals in Des Moines. The average one-way fare is around $270, with premium cabin choices potentially including both premium economy and first class, depending on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: Also flying into Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Southwest Airlines represents about 12% of arrivals to the city. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of approximately $250.
  • Frontier Airlines: Operating flights to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Frontier Airlines contributes around 3% of arrivals in Des Moines. Average one-way fares are typically around $150, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers.

Best time to fly to Des Moines

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Des Moines are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Des Moines can reach up to 50.2°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 66.9°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $228), roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, May, and August offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $233 to $248, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverage$286
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately High$272
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$306
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$263
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$247
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$265
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$256
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$248
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$228
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$233
November40.5°F (4.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately Low$253
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$257

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Des Moines

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Des Moines is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Des Moines hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Des Moines flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Des Moines

Des Moines welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Des Moines efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Des Moines, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Des Moines is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Des Moines on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Des Moines

  • Ankeny: Ankeny is located in the area of Des Moines and is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a mix of education and fun at the Des Moines Area Community College and the nearby Adventureland amusement park. For those seeking outdoor activities, the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex offers a spacious urban park atmosphere perfect for relaxation and recreation. Ankeny’s blend of adventure and family-friendly attractions makes it a great spot to explore during your stay.
  • Urbandale: Urbandale is located in the area of Des Moines and serves as a vibrant hub for family and business travelers alike. Shop at the local shopping mall center or catch a show at the Casey's Center, an arena entertainment facility that hosts various events. With attractions like Living History Farms that offer a glimpse into Iowa's agricultural past, Urbandale provides an engaging mix of city life and cultural experiences. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to balance work and leisure.
  • Altoona: Altoona is located in the area of Des Moines and is a fantastic spot for families and adventure seekers. The popular Adventureland amusement park is a key highlight, offering thrilling rides and family fun. Additionally, visitors can explore the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which hosts a variety of outdoor events. With its inviting atmosphere and numerous recreational opportunities, Altoona is a great destination for travelers looking to enjoy both adventure and relaxation in a charming city.

Tips for short-haul flights to Des Moines

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating your outfits effectively. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim after landing.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself occupied. Make sure to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Des Moines

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines may allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines provide seat selection even earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to allow sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to match your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival destination to minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Des Moines?
Schedule your trip for if you want to land a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Des Moines. Try to avoid traveling during peak periods such as public holidays or school breaks.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Des Moines?
Get cheap flights to Des Moines from Chicago, Denver and Atlanta. These cities generally offer the lowest fares to this popular destination. But remember that holiday periods, demand and stopovers will also impact rates, so remain flexible and book when prices are right.
Which US cities fly direct to Des Moines?
There are 21 US destinations where you can fly to Des Moines nonstop from. Explore your options by using the "Direct flights only" box on Expedia and find the ideal departure point for your trip. Here are a handful of the leading cities to take off from:

  • Chicago
  • Denver
  • Atlanta
  • Dallas
  • Detroit

How to find a cheap flight to Des Moines?
Book well in advance or search for cheap flights to Des Moines during the low season, such as November and December. Flying off on a Thursday could also save you an average of 16% compared to a Sunday flight.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know when to book. Just activate the toggle for "Watch prices" and get notified when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Des Moines?
It's possible to get cheap deals on last-minute flights to Des Moines, especially if your plans are flexible. Think about flying from a different airport, changing your trip dates or picking another carrier to get a cheap flight to Des Moines.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Des Moines?
Book your flight to Des Moines two to four months ahead if you're visiting from an international destination. For domestic travel, the recommendation is around 28 days in advance. Better deals and a greater choice of travel dates, times and seating options are just some of the awesome benefits of booking early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Des Moines?
Sundays are generally the best day to book a cheap flight to Des Moines, with savings of around 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you choose to purchase tickets on a Friday, expect to pay more as this is typically the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Des Moines?
There are 4 carriers connecting Des Moines with 12 airports globally. The chief gateway to this city is Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM). Book a ticket with any of these well-known airlines to Des Moines:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Frontier Airlines

Where do you fly into Des Moines?
If you're flying to Des Moines, the main hub to touch down at is Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM). You could also fly to Des Moines via Marshalltown, IA (MIW-Marshalltown Municipal).
How far is the airport from central Des Moines?
Touching down at Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) puts you roughly 4 mi southwest of the center of Des Moines.
Can I save money by booking a Des Moines trip package?
Bundle your flight and hotel and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better yet, you can add extras like activities and car rentals to your Des Moines flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's simple to look after all your Des Moines travel plans in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Des Moines?
It's often possible to change or cancel your flight to Des Moines. Many airlines let you cancel flights for free within 24 hours of booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you credit for a future flight rather than a direct refund. To get cheap flights to Des Moines with flexible change policies, pick the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search. Want more details? Check out our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
DSM
Destination city name
Des Moines
Roundtrip price
$172

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