$274 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Roanoke (ROA)
Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Roanoke (DSM-ROA)
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Des Moines (DSM) to Roanoke (ROA) at a glance
Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA) on this domestic short-haul route. Compare various options, including full-service carriers, to find the best itinerary for your budget and travel plans as you discover the unique sights and neighborhoods of Roanoke. Get all the essential details for Des Moines to Roanoke flights, ensuring a smooth journey tailored to your needs.
- Fastest flight duration: around 3h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 800 miles (1,290 km)
- Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$470, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA)
Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Des Moines to Roanoke, particularly for those looking for one-stop options. Popular layover hubs include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a layover of about 1 hour and 45 minutes, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with approximately a 1-hour layover, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with around a 1 hour and 15 minutes layover. These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to find your ideal itinerary.
- American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop flights, covering around 54% of departures on this route. One-way fares generally fall between $125 and $430. The in-flight duration is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of about 5 hours, including layover.
- United: Offering one-stop service, United constitutes roughly 30% of departures along this route. Their one-way ticket prices typically range from $145 to $550. Passengers can expect an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, with a total journey time of around 5 hours, factoring in the layover.
- Delta: As another full-service provider, Delta accounts for about 16% of the departures on this route. One-way fares are usually between $135 and $565. The in-flight time is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, with the overall travel time reaching nearly 5 hours, including a layover.
Alternative routes from Des Moines (DSM) to Roanoke (ROA)
- Des Moines to Lynchburg (DSM-LYH): Located roughly 43 miles from Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA), Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH) serves as a convenient option for travelers.
- Des Moines to Lewisburg (DSM-LWB): Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB) is about 44 miles from Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA), providing another viable route for passengers.
How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Roanoke (ROA)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Des Moines to Roanoke 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. Departures between 12 PM and 6 PM often offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Sunday generally provides cheaper options, while 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.* Find Roanoke 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 Roanoke Regional Airport from Des Moines International Airport
Roanoke welcomes travelers from Des Moines with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Roanoke efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Roanoke, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Roanoke Regional Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Roanoke Regional 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 Roanoke Regional Airport, Roanoke Station, a train station, is located about 5.7 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers.
Des Moines to Roanoke Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Roanoke
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 Roanoke are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Roanoke with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Roanoke
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Roanoke: 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 Roanoke
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 Roanoke 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 Roanoke 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 Roanoke 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $274 and cheap return flights $319 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $199 to $743, and return flights typically cost between $346 and $1080. 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
The cheapest month to fly from DSM to ROA is November 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
Enter DSM to ROA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional), 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines International (DSM) to Roanoke Regional (ROA) usually leaves at about 5:25 AM, operated by Delta. This seasonal service is active in March, allowing you to start your day early and make the most of your time in Virginia. 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) are in the late afternoon, from 3pm to 6pm. About 33% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to finish your day in Des Moines before heading to Roanoke.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
Flying from DSM to ROA with a connection usually takes about 4 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 784 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
First class seats are offered on the DSM to ROA 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) 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 Roanoke from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
If you're planning to travel to Roanoke from Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Roanoke Regional (ROA) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Denver Intl. (DEN), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) before reaching Roanoke. 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) Roanoke 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 Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Roanoke, VA (ROA-Roanoke Regional) 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 | Roanoke Regional Airport |
Distance | 784 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $319 |