$139 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM)
Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
UnitedUnited
DeltaDelta
Frontier AirlinesFrontier Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Washington to Des Moines (DCA-DSM)
Alternative airports near Des Moines
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Washington (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM)
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Washington (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance
Travel from Washington, D.C. (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM) with a range of airlines offering convenient domestic short-haul flights. Choose between full-service and budget-friendly carriers to find the best itinerary that suits your budget and schedule while discovering the highlights and neighborhoods of Des Moines. Get essential information on flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), including details on weekly flights and typical flight times to help plan your journey.
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km)
- Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $105–$480, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Washington to Des Moines, commonly selected for their non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover points include Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) with about a 1-hour stop, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) offering a 1 hour and 15-minute layover, and Denver International Airport (DEN) also with a 1 hour and 15-minute connection. This variety allows you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal travel plan.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way fares generally falling between $145 and $485. It represents about 58% of all departures on this route, with an average non-stop flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Southwest Airlines: Known for its low-cost model, this carrier offers one-stop flights with one-way prices ranging from $105 to $425. Southwest accounts for roughly 18% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of about 5 hours, including layovers.
- Delta: This full-service airline provides one-stop service, with one-way fares that typically range from $105 to $565. Delta handles approximately 10% of departures along this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 45 minutes, totaling around 5 hours for the entire journey when factoring in layovers.
- Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost option, Frontier offers one-stop service with one-way fares usually between $105 and $230. It makes up about 7% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, and a total travel time of roughly 5 hours when including the layover.
- United: This full-service carrier provides one-stop flights with one-way fares typically between $130 and $485. United accounts for around 7% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of approximately 5 hours, including layovers.
Travelers flying from Washington to Des Moines can opt for an upgrade, with American Airlines providing first-class service on this route.
Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Des Moines are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 74.8°F in July. 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 $223). Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 10 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $223, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: April, May, and November typically offer average one-way fares of around $240.
- Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Washington to Des Moines, with approximately 18 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 21.7°F (-5.7°C) | Average | 11 | $267 |
| February | 24.1°F (-4.4°C) | Average | 10 | $276 |
| March | 39.6°F (4.2°C) | High | 13 | $291 |
| April | 50.2°F (10.1°C) | High | 13 | $239 |
| May | 61.3°F (16.3°C) | Average | 18 | $240 |
| June | 71.8°F (22.1°C) | Average | 13 | $253 |
| July | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | High | 15 | $256 |
| August | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | Average | 14 | $242 |
| September | 66.9°F (19.4°C) | Low | 13 | $223 |
| October | 53.2°F (11.8°C) | Average | 13 | $242 |
| November | 40.5°F (4.7°C) | Low | 11 | $240 |
| December | 29.3°F (-1.5°C) | Low | 11 | $286 |
*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.
Alternative route from Washington (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM)
- Washington to Des Moines (IAD-DSM): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy ticket prices for this route generally vary from $135 to $465, influenced by the season and how far in advance you book. Flights on this route often include one-stop options, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Major airlines operating on this route include Delta and United, and first-class service is also an option.
How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Des Moines (DSM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington to Des Moines is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which is also when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m., tend to offer lower prices and are popular among flyers. Additionally, flying on Monday usually results in cheaper fares, although Friday remains the most popular travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Des Moines welcomes travelers from Washington with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is roughly a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from central Washington. 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.
Washington to Des Moines Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Washington 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 Washington to Des Moines are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Washington to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Washington to Des Moines
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $139 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 Washington 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 Washington 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $139 and cheap return flights $286 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $233 and $898, and roundtrip flights usually range from $432 to $1217. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
March is typically the cheapest month to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with average round-trip fares around $373. This price is about 20% lower than the average throughout the year, as March often sees a dip in travel demand after the winter months. Other budget-friendly months to fly from DCA to DSM include February and April.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
American Airlines operates around 20 direct flights from DCA to DSM every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $199. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, American Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from Washington, DC to Des Moines, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The ideal months to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) are March and April. Return flights during these months average around $373, providing a good balance of price and travel experience. March and April are great for enjoying spring weather while avoiding the summer rush.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
On average, there are around 3 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) usually departs at around 5:00 AM local time, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in April and May, and an early departure allows you to make the most of your day in Des Moines. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
When flying from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM), the most popular departure times are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 34% of passengers prefer this time window. Many travelers like this timing as it helps them make the most of their day in Des Moines.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Direct flights from DCA to DSM usually take about 3 hours, traveling roughly 894 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours to your journey. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from DCA to DSM. First class cabins are available on:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
If you're planning to travel to Des Moines from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Liberty Intl. (EWR), Indianapolis Intl. (IND), Midway Intl. (MDW) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Des Moines International Airport |
Distance | 894 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United, Delta, Frontier Airlines |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $286 |
Average flight time | 2 hours 52 mins |