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$100 Cheap Flights from Indianapolis (IND) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $100 flight on Fri, Sep 11, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Indianapolis Intl. Airport (IND) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

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Cheap Flights from Indianapolis to Des Moines (IND-DSM)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $100 for one-way flights and $197 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Wed, Sep 9 - Thu, Sep 10
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$197 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$197
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Sep 9 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Thu, Sep 10, priced at $197 found 2 days ago
Delta
Mon, Sep 7 - Thu, Sep 10
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$208 Roundtrip, found 15 hours ago
$208
Roundtrip
found 15 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Sep 7 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Thu, Sep 10, priced at $208 found 15 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Sep 10 - Thu, Sep 17
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$229 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$229
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 10 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Thu, Sep 17, priced at $229 found 1 day ago
Frontier Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Sun, Sep 13
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$229 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$229
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Sun, Sep 13, priced at $229 found 3 hours ago
Delta
Wed, Sep 9 - Thu, Sep 10
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$232 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$232
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Sep 9 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Thu, Sep 10, priced at $232 found 2 days ago
United
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$233 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$233
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $233 found 2 days ago
Delta
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$233 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$233
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $233 found 2 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$233 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$233
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $233 found 2 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$233 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$233
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $233 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Sep 5 - Fri, Sep 11
IND
Indianapolis
DSM
Des Moines
$256 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$256
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Indianapolis to Des Moines, returning Fri, Sep 11, priced at $256 found 6 days ago

Alternative airports near Des Moines

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

Select flight to Des Moines Intl. DSM. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 10 minutes. Flights from $363
DSM
Des Moines Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center10 min
Flights from $363

What you need to know for your flight from Indianapolis Intl. to Des Moines Intl.

Indianapolis (IND) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance

Travel between Indianapolis (IND) and Des Moines (DSM) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. You can explore weekly flights that suit your budget and schedule, whether you prefer full-service or low-cost carriers. Take a look at the latest deals on flights to find cheap flights from Indianapolis, helping you plan your visit to Des Moines's notable attractions and neighborhoods. Get ready for your next flight from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$350, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Indianapolis to Des Moines, typically featuring 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) offering around a 50-minute layover, and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) with a layover of about 1 hour. This gives you the flexibility to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to find your ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way prices generally falling between $115 and $355. It represents around 37% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta also offers one-stop services, with one-way fares typically ranging from $115 to $360. It comprises about 34% of the flights on this route, boasting an in-air time of 3 hours and a complete journey duration of roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.
  • United: This full-service airline provides one-stop connections, with one-way ticket prices usually between $125 and $335. United accounts for approximately 27% of the departures for this route, featuring 3 hours of flight time and a total travel duration of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: Operating as a budget carrier, Southwest offers one-stop services with one-way fares that typically range from $185 to $355. It constitutes around 2% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours, resulting in a total journey time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, including the layover.

Travelers flying from Indianapolis to Des Moines have the option to upgrade their experience. Both American Airlines and Delta provide first-class service for this route.

Best time to fly from Indianapolis (IND) to Des Moines (DSM)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Indianapolis to Des Moines are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 50.2°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider January, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 21.7°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $184. Flight availability peaks in June, July, August, and October, with approximately 11 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. December has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $184, roughly 17% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: October typically offers an average one-way fare of around $200.
  • Most flight options: June, July, August, and October have the highest number of flights from Indianapolis to Des Moines, with approximately 11 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)Moderately Low8$223
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)Moderately High10$239
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Moderately High10$228
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Moderately High9$237
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Average10$227
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Average11$245
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Average11$205
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Average11$184
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Average10$207
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Average11$200
November40.5°F (4.7°C)Moderately Low10$239
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Moderately Low7$230

*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.

How to find the best prices for flights from Indianapolis (IND) to Des Moines (DSM)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Indianapolis to Des Moines is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are typically found when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, between 5 AM and 12 PM, not only offer lower prices but are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally results in cheaper prices, while Sunday remains the most popular travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 Indianapolis International Airport

Des Moines welcomes travelers from Indianapolis 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $100 and cheap return flights from $197 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $144 to $461, and return flights typically cost between $293 and $785. 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
November is the cheapest month to fly from Indianapolis to Des Moines, with average return fares around $294. This price is about 22% lower than the average throughout the year, likely due to reduced travel demand as the holiday season approaches. Other budget-friendly months include September and December.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter IND to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
For flights from Indianapolis, IN (IND) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), November and December are the best months to fly. These months are the cheapest, with return flights averaging around $294. November is great for enjoying the fall colors, while December can be festive with holiday events. 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) typically leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, allowing you to maximize your time 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
When traveling from Indianapolis Intl. (IND) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM), the most popular departure times are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. This time window captures about 30% of total traffic, indicating a strong preference among travelers for morning flights. Airlines like American Airlines and Delta operate during this time, making it convenient for early risers.
How long does it take to fly from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flights from IND to DSM with one stop typically take around 5 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 405 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Select the "Business class" and "First class" filters when looking for IND to DSM flights on Expedia. This is the easiest way to compare prices, routes and flight times for your trip.
How do I earn miles on a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis Intl. (IND)?
If you're planning to travel to Des Moines from Indianapolis Intl. (IND), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Love Field (DAL), Midway Intl. (MDW), Kansas City Intl. (MCI) 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis 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
Indianapolis Intl.
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$196
Distance
405 mi

Book with confidence

Indianapolis to Des Moines Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis to Des Moines are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Indianapolis to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $100 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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.

 

Indianapolis to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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