$182 Cheap Flights from Appleton (ATW) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $182 flight on Wed, Jul 1, 2026Opens in a new window

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

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

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $182 for one-way flights and $289 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Thu, Jul 2 - Sun, Jul 5
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$289 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$289
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Jul 2 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sun, Jul 5, priced at $289 found 18 hours ago
United
Thu, Jul 2 - Sun, Jul 5
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$289 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$289
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Jul 2 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sun, Jul 5, priced at $289 found 18 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Jun 13 - Sat, Jun 20
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$304 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$304
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Jun 13 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sat, Jun 20, priced at $304 found 5 days ago
United
Sat, Jun 13 - Sat, Jun 20
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$317 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$317
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Jun 13 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sat, Jun 20, priced at $317 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Jun 13 - Tue, Jun 16
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$319 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$319
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Jun 13 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Tue, Jun 16, priced at $319 found 5 days ago
United
Thu, Jul 2 - Sun, Jul 5
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$338 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$338
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Jul 2 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sun, Jul 5, priced at $338 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Fri, Jun 12 - Mon, Jun 15
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$339 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$339
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Jun 12 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Mon, Jun 15, priced at $339 found 4 days ago
United
Fri, Jun 12 - Sun, Jun 14
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$359 Roundtrip, found 13 hours ago
$359
Roundtrip
found 13 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Jun 12 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sun, Jun 14, priced at $359 found 13 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Jun 23 - Wed, Jun 24
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$363 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$363
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jun 23 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Wed, Jun 24, priced at $363 found 2 days ago
Delta
Thu, Jul 2 - Sun, Jul 5
ATW
Appleton
DSM
Des Moines
$370 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$370
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Thu, Jul 2 from Appleton to Des Moines, returning Sun, Jul 5, priced at $370 found 18 hours ago

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

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

Travel effortlessly from Appleton International Airport (ATW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) on this domestic short-haul route. Explore a range of airlines offering flights tailored to your budget and schedule, making it easy to discover the attractions and neighborhoods of Des Moines. Compare options to find the most affordable airfare tickets and the best airfares to Appleton (ATW) as you plan your journey from Des Moines to Appleton.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
  • Flights per week: around 7 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$370, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

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

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Appleton to Des Moines, typically featuring one-stop services. Common layover locations include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with approximately a 1 hour and 15 minute layover and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) with around a 1 hour and 45 minute layover. This allows you to customize your travel plans by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides convenient one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $125 and $370. United operates about 44% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Delta: Another comprehensive carrier, Delta offers one-stop services with one-way fares typically ranging from $120 to $360. It accounts for around 32% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, resulting in a total journey duration of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, layover included.
  • American Airlines: This full-service airline also provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares commonly between $115 and $330. American Airlines represents about 24% of the departures on this route, maintaining an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel experience of roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.

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

  • Green Bay to Des Moines (GRB-DSM): Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) lies approximately 25 miles from Appleton International Airport (ATW). One-way economy ticket prices for this journey generally fall between $115 and $405, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. This route often features one-stop flights, with common layover locations including O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Major airlines operating on this route are United and Delta.

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

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Appleton to Des Moines 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 generally available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Morning departures, from 5 am to 12 pm, not only provide lower prices but are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Friday offers both discounted rates and is the preferred 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.*
  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 Des Moines International Airport from Appleton International Airport

Des Moines welcomes travelers from Appleton with a 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 private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Des Moines International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Des Moines 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $182 and cheap return flights from $289 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $174 and $576, and return flights often range between $302 and $838. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ATW to DSM is July 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter ATW to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Appleton, WI (ATW) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $228.36. This route does not have specific layover information available. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Appleton International Airport (ATW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) typically departs at 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in January, allowing you to make the most of your travel plans early in the year. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 43% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Des Moines with a full day ahead of you.
How long does it take to fly from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
A flight from ATW to DSM with a layover takes around 4 hours, 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
You can fly first class between ATW and DSM. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Des Moines from Appleton Intl. (ATW)?
If you're planning to travel to Des Moines from Appleton Intl. (ATW), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD) before reaching Des Moines. 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) Des Moines Vacation Packages 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 Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Appleton, WI (ATW-Appleton Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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
Appleton Intl.
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$288
Distance
320 mi

Book with confidence

Appleton to Des Moines Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Appleton to Des Moines

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 Appleton to Des Moines are during the month of July. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Appleton to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Appleton to Des Moines: 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 Appleton to Des Moines

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 Appleton to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $182 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 Appleton to Des Moines 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 Appleton to Des Moines 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.

 

Appleton to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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