$163 Cheap Flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM)
Popular airlines from Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport (BUF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Buffalo to Des Moines (BUF-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 Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM)
August is typically the cheapest month to flyAugust is typically the cheapest month to fly
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Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance
Explore a range of flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM) on this convenient domestic route. Choose from various airlines, including both full-service and budget carriers, to find the best option that aligns with your travel plans and budget. Whether you’re searching for cheap flights from Buffalo Niagara International Airport or looking to enjoy the sights and neighborhoods of Des Moines, you'll find all the essential flight details you need for your journey.
- Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 800 miles (1,290 km)
- Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$360, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Buffalo to Des Moines, often selected for their one-stop services. Common layover points include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with approximately a 1 hour and 15 minute layover, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) at around 1 hour, and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) which also offers about a 1 hour layover. This allows you to explore various options regarding price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.
- Delta: As a comprehensive airline providing one-stop services, Delta handles about 39% of departures along this route. One-way ticket prices generally range from $120 to $350. Expect around 3 hours and 30 minutes of flight time, with the entire trip lasting approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline also offers one-stop options and represents roughly 30% of flights on this route. One-way fares typically fall between $120 and $370. The flight duration is around 3 hours and 30 minutes, while the total travel time, including layover, is about 4 hours and 45 minutes.
- United: United Airlines provides one-stop service as a full-service carrier, accounting for about 29% of departures on this route. One-way fares usually range from $120 to $390. Passengers can expect an in-flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with a total journey time near 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
Best time to fly from Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Buffalo to Des Moines are June, July, and September, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 74.8°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 40.5°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $178. Flight availability peaks in July and August, with approximately 11 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $178, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $183.
- Most flight options: July and August have the highest number of flights from Buffalo to Des Moines, with approximately 11 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 | 8 | $241 |
| February | 24.1°F (-4.4°C) | Average | 10 | $244 |
| March | 39.6°F (4.2°C) | Moderately Low | 8 | $270 |
| April | 50.2°F (10.1°C) | Average | 8 | $234 |
| May | 61.3°F (16.3°C) | Average | 9 | $183 |
| June | 71.8°F (22.1°C) | Moderately High | 10 | $225 |
| July | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | Moderately High | 11 | $243 |
| August | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | Average | 11 | $178 |
| September | 66.9°F (19.4°C) | Moderately High | 9 | $200 |
| October | 53.2°F (11.8°C) | Average | 9 | $237 |
| November | 40.5°F (4.7°C) | Moderately Low | 7 | $197 |
| December | 29.3°F (-1.5°C) | Moderately Low | 8 | $220 |
*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 Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM)
- Rochester to Des Moines (ROC-DSM): Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) is located approximately 56 miles from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF). On this route, one-way economy prices generally fall between $140 and $385, influenced by the season and how far in advance you book. Flights typically involve one stop, with common layover points being 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 offered.
How to find the best prices for flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Buffalo 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 coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM often offer lower prices, although morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally yields cheaper rates, while Monday is the busiest 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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport
Des Moines welcomes travelers from Buffalo 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.
Buffalo to Des Moines Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Buffalo 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 Buffalo to Des Moines are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Buffalo to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Buffalo to Des Moines
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $163 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $163 and cheap return flights $325 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $163 and $591, and roundtrip flights usually range from $321 to $1002. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from BUF to DSM is September 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter BUF to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Des Moines (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $522. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by Southwest Airlines. This seasonal service is available in December, allowing you to start your day early 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
For flights from Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM), the most popular departure times are from 6am to 9am. This time window accounts for about 37% of total traffic. Many major carriers, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this period. This early timing is popular as it allows travelers to make the most of their day upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flying from BUF to DSM with a connection usually takes about 4 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 768 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
You can fly first class between BUF and DSM. First class cabins are available on:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF)?
If you're planning to travel to Des Moines from Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI), Midway Intl. (MDW), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 | Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Des Moines International Airport |
Distance | 768 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest Airlines |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $325 |