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Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Raleigh (DSM-RDU)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $163 for one-way flights and $336 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

All deals

One way

Roundtrip

Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$336

Roundtrip

found 4 days ago

Fri, Jan 8 - Mon, Jan 11

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$367

Roundtrip

found 3 days ago

Fri, Oct 2 - Tue, Oct 6

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$368

Roundtrip

found 3 days ago

Sat, Nov 21 - Thu, Nov 26

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$373

Roundtrip

found 4 days ago

Wed, Oct 14 - Mon, Oct 19

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$374

Roundtrip

found 2 days ago

Tue, Mar 16 - Sat, Mar 20

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$375

Roundtrip

found 9 hours ago

Tue, Mar 16 - Sat, Mar 20

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$376

Roundtrip

found 9 hours ago

Wed, Oct 14 - Mon, Oct 19

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$378

Roundtrip

found 2 days ago

Wed, Oct 21 - Sat, Oct 24

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$391

Roundtrip

found 2 hours ago

Wed, Oct 21 - Sat, Oct 24

DSM

Des Moines

RDU

Raleigh

$391

Roundtrip

found 2 hours ago

Alternative airports near Raleigh

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

RDU

Raleigh - Durham Intl.

CheapestClosest

20 min

Flights from $517

What you need to know for your flight from Des Moines Intl. to Raleigh - Durham Intl.

Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU) at a glance

Travel from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU) with a variety of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Discover options for cheap flights from Des Moines and explore weekly flights available, whether you prefer full-service or low-cost carriers. This allows you to choose an itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule as you prepare to experience Raleigh's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Find essential details for flights from Des Moines International Airport to Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
Route distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km)
Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$410, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Raleigh - Durham International Airport (RDU)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Des Moines to Raleigh, particularly for those seeking one-stop service. Common layover airports include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with an approximate 1-hour layover, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) with about a 50-minute layover. This variety allows you to mix and match options based on price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.

American Airlines: As a full-service airline providing one-stop flights, American Airlines presents one-way fares generally between $120 and $405. This carrier makes up about 46% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of around 4 hours and 45 minutes, including the layover.
Delta: Delta is a full-service airline that offers one-stop services, with one-way ticket prices typically ranging from $120 to $410. It represents roughly 23% of the departures along this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a complete journey time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
United: This full-service carrier provides one-stop flight options, with one-way fares usually falling between $150 and $420. United accounts for around 16% of departures on this route, offering an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of about 4 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in layover time.
Southwest Airlines: A budget-friendly airline that offers one-stop service, Southwest Airlines has one-way fares typically priced from $120 to $470. Approximately 14% of flights on this route are operated by them, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total journey time of roughly 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
Frontier Airlines: This low-cost carrier provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually ranging from $120 to $185. The in-flight time is about 3 hours and 30 minutes, while the overall travel duration is approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.

Travelers flying from Des Moines to Raleigh can choose to upgrade to first-class service on this route with American Airlines for a more luxurious experience.

Best time to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Des Moines to Raleigh are April, May, and June, when peak temperatures in Raleigh reach up to 76.6°F in June. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 51.8°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $187. Flight availability peaks in July, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $187, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $214.
Most flight options: July has the highest number of flights from Des Moines to Raleigh, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Slightly Low	9	$268
February	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Average	10	$234
March	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Average	10	$276
April	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Slightly High	11	$225
May	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Slightly High	12	$247
June	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Slightly High	11	$260
July	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Average	14	$224
August	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Average	12	$214
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Average	12	$187
October	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Average	13	$239
November	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Slightly Low	13	$218
December	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Slightly Low	13	$241

*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 routes from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

Des Moines to Greensboro (DSM-GSO): Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) is located approximately 66 miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). One-way economy ticket prices for this journey generally fall between $125 and $410, influenced by the season and how early you book. Flights on this route are mostly one-stop, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines servicing this route include American Airlines and Delta.
Des Moines to Fayetteville (DSM-FAY): Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY) is situated around 61 miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). The one-way economy fares for this route usually range from $160 to $695, varying by season and booking time. Travelers can expect primarily one-stop flights, with popular layovers at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Key airlines on this route encompass American Airlines and Delta.

How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Des Moines to Raleigh 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 to 8 weeks in advance, which is also when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM tend to offer lower prices and are popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday usually results in cheaper fares, although Thursday 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.*
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 Raleigh - Durham International Airport from Des Moines International Airport

Raleigh welcomes travelers from Des Moines with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Raleigh city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from Raleigh - Durham International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Raleigh efficiently:

Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Raleigh, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
Car rental: Renting a car from Raleigh - Durham International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Cary Station, a train station, is located about 6 miles away, providing convenient access to rail services.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) cost?

You can find cheap one-way flights from $163 and cheap return flights from $336 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $157 to $841, and return flights typically cost between $317 and $947. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

The cheapest month to fly from DSM to RDU 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

Enter DSM to RDU 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU), with round-trip tickets starting from around $265. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

The earliest flight from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in March, allowing you to maximize your time in Raleigh. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.

How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

A flight from DSM to RDU with a layover takes around 6 hours, with the route covering approximately 890 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

First class seats are offered on the DSM to RDU route. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?

If you're planning to travel to Raleigh from Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Denver Intl. (DEN), Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL) before reaching Raleigh. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) Raleigh 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?

If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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	Raleigh - Durham Intl.
Airlines serving	American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price	$335
Distance	889 mi

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Des Moines to Raleigh Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Raleigh

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

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

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

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 Raleigh 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 Des Moines to Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

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Flights

$163 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Raleigh (DSM-RDU)

Alternative airports near Raleigh

What you need to know for your flight from Des Moines Intl. to Raleigh - Durham Intl.

Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU) at a glance

Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Raleigh - Durham International Airport (RDU)

Best time to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

Alternative routes from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Raleigh (RDU)

Arriving at Raleigh - Durham International Airport from Des Moines International Airport

Frequently asked questions

Travel information

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Des Moines to Raleigh Flights

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