$274 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Chattanooga (CHA)
Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Be in the knowGet alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
Book smarterSave up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Chattanooga (DSM-CHA)
Alternative airports near Chattanooga
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Chattanooga (CHA)
January is typically the cheapest month to flyJanuary is typically the cheapest month to fly
Book with confidence
Des Moines (DSM) to Chattanooga (CHA) at a glance
Embark on your journey with a range of airlines offering flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) on this domestic short-haul route. Explore options from various full-service carriers to find the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule as you prepare to discover the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Chattanooga. Get all the essential details for your travels on this route from Des Moines to Chattanooga.
- Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 600 miles (970 km)
- Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$435, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for one-stop flights from Des Moines to Chattanooga. Many travelers choose routes with layovers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes), O'Hare International Airport (ORD, about 55 minutes), and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT, roughly 1 hour 15 minutes). These options allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal itinerary for your journey.
- Delta: As a leading full-service airline, Delta provides one-stop service with one-way ticket prices generally ranging from $120 to $535. It accounts for about 37% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline offers one-stop travel options at one-way fares usually between $120 and $430. American Airlines comprises around 36% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes alongside a total journey time of roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layovers.
- United: United Airlines, another full-service carrier, provides one-stop services with one-way fares typically falling between $140 and $430. It represents about 27% of departures for this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes and an overall travel duration of roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, including any layovers.
Best time to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Chattanooga (CHA)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Des Moines to Chattanooga are April, May, and October, when peak temperatures in Chattanooga reach up to 65.7°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 73.2°F. For better deals, July usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $201. Flight availability peaks in March, April, June, September, and November, with approximately 8 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January, February, May, July, August, October, and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: July usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $201, roughly 22% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: October and August typically offer average one-way fares of around $207.
- Most flight options: March, April, June, September, and November have the highest number of flights from Des Moines to Chattanooga, with approximately 8 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 37.9°F (3.3°C) | Low | 7 | $295 |
| February | 42.1°F (5.6°C) | Average | 7 | $265 |
| March | 49.3°F (9.6°C) | Average | 8 | $327 |
| April | 57.0°F (13.9°C) | High | 8 | $251 |
| May | 65.7°F (18.7°C) | High | 7 | $227 |
| June | 73.2°F (22.9°C) | Low | 8 | $258 |
| July | 75.9°F (24.4°C) | Average | 7 | $201 |
| August | 75.0°F (23.9°C) | Average | 7 | $209 |
| September | 69.8°F (21.0°C) | Average | 8 | $242 |
| October | 59.4°F (15.2°C) | High | 7 | $205 |
| November | 48.6°F (9.2°C) | Average | 8 | $298 |
| December | 42.8°F (6.0°C) | Low | 7 | $320 |
*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 Des Moines (DSM) to Chattanooga (CHA)
- Des Moines to Tullahoma (DSM-THA): Located approximately 64 miles from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), Tullahoma Regional Airport (THA) serves as a convenient option for travelers.
How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Chattanooga (CHA)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Des Moines to Chattanooga is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures (12 PM-6 PM) often provide lower prices, although morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday typically results in cheaper prices, while Wednesday is the most favored 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.* Find Chattanooga hotel and flight deals.
- 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 Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport from Des Moines International Airport
Chattanooga welcomes travelers from Des Moines with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Chattanooga efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Chattanooga, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Chattanooga Metropolitan 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 Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, Chattanooga Seaport, a seaport, is conveniently located just 0.2 miles away on foot.
Des Moines to Chattanooga Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Chattanooga
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 Chattanooga are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Chattanooga with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Chattanooga
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Chattanooga: 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 Chattanooga
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 Chattanooga in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $274 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $274 and cheap return flights $314 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $238 and $668, and return flights often range between $300 and $874. 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
February is typically the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines to Chattanooga, with average round-trip fares around $258. This is about 25% lower than the average price throughout the year, as February often sees reduced travel demand after the holiday season. Other cheap months to fly from Des Moines to Chattanooga include August and November.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
Enter DSM to CHA 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA), with round-trip tickets starting from around $248. 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan), 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
The best time to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA) is typically in February or November. February offers the lowest average price at around $258, making it a great budget option. November is also popular for travel, providing a pleasant experience as the weather cools down. These months are ideal for balancing cost and enjoyment, ensuring a memorable trip. This information is based on booking data from the past year.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines (Des Moines International) to Chattanooga (Chattanooga Metropolitan) typically leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service allows you to arrive in Chattanooga early, giving you a full day to enjoy the city. 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA) are in the late afternoon, from 3pm to 6pm. About 26% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to travel after a full day of activities.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
A flight from DSM to CHA with a layover takes around 5 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 641 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
First class is available on flights from DSM to CHA. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) 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 Chattanooga from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
If you're planning to travel to Chattanooga from Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. (MSP), O'Hare Intl. (ORD) before reaching Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) 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 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) Chattanooga 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 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) 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 International Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport |
Distance | 640 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $314 |