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$204 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Appleton (ATW)

View $204 flight on Mon, Aug 17, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)

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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Appleton (DSM-ATW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $204 for one-way flights and $289 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Sat, Oct 17 - Tue, Oct 20
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$289 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$289
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $289 found 1 day ago
United
Thu, Aug 20 - Mon, Aug 24
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$289 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$289
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Aug 20 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $289 found 2 days ago
United
Fri, Nov 13 - Mon, Nov 16
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$299 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $299 found 6 days ago
United
Thu, Aug 20 - Mon, Aug 24
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$302 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$302
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Aug 20 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $302 found 2 days ago
United
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$305 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$305
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $305 found 4 days ago
United
Fri, Nov 13 - Mon, Nov 16
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$314 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$314
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $314 found 6 days ago
American Airlines
Thu, Jul 30 - Mon, Aug 3
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$319 Roundtrip, found 15 hours ago
$319
Roundtrip
found 15 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Jul 30 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Aug 3, priced at $319 found 15 hours ago
United
Fri, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 24
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$324 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$324
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Aug 21 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Mon, Aug 24, priced at $324 found 4 days ago
United
Fri, Jul 24 - Sat, Jul 25
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$333 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$333
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Jul 24 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Sat, Jul 25, priced at $333 found 5 days ago
Delta
Wed, Aug 19 - Tue, Aug 25
DSM
Des Moines
ATW
Appleton
$334 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$334
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Aug 19 from Des Moines to Appleton, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $334 found 6 days ago

What you need to know for your flight from Des Moines Intl. to Appleton Intl.

Des Moines (DSM) to Appleton (ATW) at a glance

Explore a variety of airlines offering flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Appleton (ATW) on this domestic short-haul route. You can compare different carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel preferences while planning your visit to the charming attractions and neighborhoods of Appleton. Find essential information for your journey from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Appleton International Airport (ATW).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 45m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$370, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Appleton International Airport (ATW)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Des Moines to Appleton, primarily known for their one-stop services. Common layover options include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute layover, Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) also offering about a 1 hour and 45-minute layover, and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with a longer layover of around 2 hours and 45 minutes. These choices provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides a convenient one-stop option, with one-way fares generally falling between $135 and $425. United represents about 36% of flights on this route, featuring a flight duration of 2 hours 45 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Delta: Another full-service carrier, Delta also offers one-stop service with one-way fares typically ranging from $140 to $370. It comprises around 33% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 2 hours 45 minutes and an overall journey time of about 4 hours 15 minutes, including any layover.
  • American Airlines: As a full-service provider with one-stop options, American Airlines has one-way fares that usually vary from $130 to $325. This airline accounts for roughly 31% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 2 hours 45 minutes and a total journey time close to 4 hours 15 minutes, factoring in a layover.

Alternative route from Des Moines (DSM) to Appleton (ATW)

  • Des Moines to Green Bay (DSM-GRB): Located approximately 25 miles from Appleton International Airport (ATW), Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) serves as the destination for this route. One-way economy fares generally vary from $135 to $385, influenced by factors such as the season and how early you make your reservation. Most flights on this route involve a single stop, with common layover points being O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Major airlines operating on this route include Delta and United, with first-class service also offered.

How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Appleton (ATW)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking within two weeks, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., also tend to offer lower prices and are popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Thursday provides both more affordable options and is the most favored travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.* Find Appleton hotel and flight deals.
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Appleton International Airport from Des Moines International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Appleton, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Appleton International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Appleton International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Appleton International Airport, Appleton Transit Center, a bus station, is located about 5.8 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers looking to use public transport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $204 and cheap return flights from $289 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $196 and $551, and return flights often range between $279 and $883. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from DSM to ATW is October when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
Enter DSM to ATW and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Appleton, WI (ATW), with round-trip tickets starting from around $228. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Appleton, WI (ATW) usually departs at around 5:00 AM local time, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in July and August, making it a great option for early risers looking to maximize their day. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Appleton (ATW) are in the late afternoon, from 3pm to 6pm. About 34% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to wrap up your day in Des Moines before heading to Appleton.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
A flight from DSM to ATW with a layover takes around 3 hours 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 321 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
You can fly first class between DSM and ATW. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Appleton from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
From Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Appleton Intl. (ATW) to reach Appleton. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW), LaGuardia (LGA), Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. (MSP) before reaching Appleton. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Des Moines Intl.
Destination airport
Appleton Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$288
Distance
320 mi

Book with confidence

Des Moines to Appleton Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Appleton

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Des Moines to Appleton are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Appleton with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Appleton

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Appleton: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Des Moines to Appleton

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Des Moines to Appleton in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $204 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Des Moines to Appleton flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Des Moines to Appleton airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Des Moines to Appleton Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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