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$46 Cheap Flights to Elkhart, IA

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Popular airlines to Elkhart

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How much is the cheapest flight to Elkhart?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $46 for one-way flights and $129 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Delta
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
United

Alternative airports near Elkhart

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

What you need to know for your flight to Elkhart

Flights to Elkhart at a glance

Traveling to Elkhart is easy; you can choose from both full-service and budget airlines. Just compare flight times and select the option that best aligns with your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Elkhart: Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO)
  • Closest airport to Elkhart: Des Moines International Airport, DSM (around 19 miles)
  • Flights per week: 1,950+ flights arriving across Elkhart airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Elkhart: around 10+ carriers

Popular airports near Elkhart

Elkhart is a welcoming city perfect for family getaways, urban explorations, and business trips. Visitors flock to Elkhart for its family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor activities, romantic spots, and rich cultural experiences. The city is conveniently served by two major airports.

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM): Situated in Polk County, Iowa, approximately 19 miles from Elkhart, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 175 domestic cities and more than 45 international locations. Major airlines such as American Airlines, United, and Delta operate here, with options to elevate your travel experience to first class or premium economy on select routes.
  • Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO): Found in Black Hawk County, Iowa, about 78 miles from Elkhart, this airport primarily handles domestic flights, providing connections to roughly 6 cities nationwide. The main carrier at this airport is American Airlines, catering to travelers seeking convenient regional access.

Top routes to Elkhart

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

Cheapest routes to Elkhart

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

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

Top airlines with flights to Elkhart

  • American Airlines: Operates flights to Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM), making up about 36% of arrivals to Elkhart. The typical one-way fare hovers around $280, with premium cabin options possibly including first class depending on the route.
  • United: Services Des Moines International Airport (DSM), contributing approximately 27% of arrivals to Elkhart. Average one-way fares are around $300, and premium cabin service may feature first class, depending on the specific route.
  • Delta: Also providing flights to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Delta accounts for roughly 21% of arrivals to Elkhart. Expect average one-way fares of about $270, with premium cabin choices potentially including premium economy and first class based on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: Flies into Des Moines International Airport (DSM), representing about 12% of arrivals to Elkhart. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $250.
  • Frontier Airlines: Serves Des Moines International Airport (DSM), making up around 3% of arrivals to Elkhart. This airline generally offers low fares, with average one-way prices around $150.

Best time to fly to Elkhart

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Elkhart are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Elkhart can reach up to 50°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 66.7°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
January21.2°F (-6.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately High$286
February23.5°F (-4.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverage$272
March39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$306
April50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$263
May61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$247
June71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$265
July74.5°F (23.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$256
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$248
September66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$228
October52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$233
November40.1°F (4.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately Low$253
December28.8°F (-1.8°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 Elkhart

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Elkhart 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 Elkhart 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 Elkhart flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Elkhart

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Elkhart, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Elkhart is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Elkhart 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 around Elkhart

  • Ankeny: Ankeny is located 6 miles away from Elkhart. This vibrant city is an excellent destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the Des Moines Area Community College to having fun at Adventureland amusement park. For those who love sports, the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex offers ample green space for recreational activities. Ankeny also boasts a waterpark and event conference venue, making it a well-rounded spot for both relaxation and excitement.
  • Altoona: Altoona is located 11 miles away from Elkhart. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this city is a hotspot for outdoor fun and adventure. Adventureland amusement park is a major draw, along with the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which hosts various events throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy the Casey's Center for entertainment options. Altoona's waterpark provides a perfect way to cool off during the warmer months, making it an ideal destination for summer outings.
  • Kelley: Kelley is located 13 miles away from Elkhart. This small city offers a charming blend of outdoor scenery and urban experiences. Travelers can explore the beautiful Reiman Gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The presence of Iowa State University adds a dynamic educational atmosphere to the area. Additionally, Stephens Auditorium serves as a key venue for various events and performances. Kelley provides a tranquil escape while still being close to the excitement of nearby cities.

Tips for short-haul flights to Elkhart

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 space by opting for mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits thoughtfully. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • 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 entertained. Remember 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 potential security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Elkhart

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 often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours prior to departure. Some airlines allow you to select seats even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take a moment to explore the shops, enjoy a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and widely available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin aligning your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to correspond with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or remain awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Elkhart?
October is the cheapest month to travel to Elkhart. Demand is lower then, so you're likely to snag a great deal. Booking your trip outside of major holidays and school breaks could also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Elkhart?
Chicago, Denver and Atlanta typically offer cheap flights to Elkhart. Keep in mind that fares may vary based on factors such as demand, number of stopovers and time of year.
Which US cities fly direct to Elkhart?
You can fly to Elkhart without a stopover from 21 US destinations. To find a nonstop trip, check "Direct flights only" when searching for flights to Elkhart on Expedia. Then, compare the options and find the best departure out of any of these cities:

  • Chicago
  • Denver
  • Atlanta
  • Dallas
  • Detroit

How to find a cheap flight to Elkhart?
If you're eager to find cheap flights to Elkhart, consider traveling in the low season. Booking in advance may also save you money. Or, look for departures on a different day — flights on a Thursday are on average 16% cheaper than Sunday options.* Sign up to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and you'll be instantly 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 Elkhart?
It's possible to get cheap deals on last-minute departures to Elkhart, especially if your travel arrangements aren't set in stone. Consider flying from a different hub, changing your dates or picking an alternative carrier to get a cheap flight to Elkhart.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Elkhart?
To snap up some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Elkhart 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book two to four months in advance. This improves your chances of securing your preferred departure times and seats.**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 Elkhart?
You can save an average of 8% if you purchase plane tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the most expensive day to book.* When it comes to scoring a cheap flight to Elkhart, the key is good timing.*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 Elkhart?
A total of 4 carriers connect 12 airports across the world to Elkhart. Here are some of the major airlines to Elkhart, where Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) is the major gateway:

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

Where do you fly into Elkhart?
Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) is the main hub for travelers flying to Elkhart. Or you could disembark at Marshalltown, IA (MIW-Marshalltown Municipal). Compare fares between the two airports to find the cheapest or easiest way to fly to Elkhart.
How far is the airport from central Elkhart?
If you're flying into Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM), you'll be about 19 mi south of central Elkhart.
Can I save money by booking an Elkhart trip package?
You could possibly save hundreds of dollars if you secure an Elkhart flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll save time and hassle by having all your travel arrangements in one place. Try bundling flights and hotels with extras such as car rentals and activities for your own personalized Elkhart trip.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Elkhart?
You can often change or cancel your flight to Elkhart within 24 hours of booking. However, keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued a credit toward a future flight rather than a direct refund. Remember to check the airline's terms of service in your itinerary for exact details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters when you search to secure cheap flights to Elkhart with flexible change policies. For more information, browse 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
$129

Trending flights to Elkhart

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $46 for one-way flights and $129 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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