$244 Cheap Flights from McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM)
Popular airlines from Miller Intl. Airport (MFE) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
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Cheap Flights from McAllen to Des Moines (MFE-DSM)
Alternative airports near Des Moines
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance
Explore a range of airlines providing flights from McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM) on this domestic short-haul journey. You can compare options from full-service carriers to identify the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule as you discover the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Des Moines. Check out key details for your next flight from Miller International Airport (MFE) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) and find the best deals for your travel plans.
- Fastest flight duration: around 3h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,100 miles (1,770 km)
- Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $135–$435, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Miller International Airport (MFE) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from McAllen to Des Moines, commonly selected for one-stop and multi-stop flights. Popular layover points include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of downtime, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), also with about a 1 hour and 30 minutes layover. These options allow you to tailor your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best itinerary.
- American Airlines: This leading full-service airline provides one-stop service, handling about 72% of departures on this route. One-way fares generally range from $135 to $400, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
- United: Another prominent full-service carrier, United offers one-stop flights that comprise roughly 26% of departures on this route. One-way tickets are typically priced between $140 and $400, with a flying time of 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to an overall journey time of around 5 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
Best time to fly from McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from McAllen to Des Moines are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 39.6°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 73.4°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $182. Flight availability peaks in January, May, and July, with approximately 9 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $182, roughly 32% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $187.
- Most flight options: January, May, and July have the highest number of flights from McAllen to Des Moines, with approximately 9 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) | High | 9 | $295 |
| February | 24.1°F (-4.4°C) | High | 7 | $272 |
| March | 39.6°F (4.2°C) | High | 8 | $279 |
| April | 50.2°F (10.1°C) | Average | 8 | $274 |
| May | 61.3°F (16.3°C) | Average | 9 | $244 |
| June | 71.8°F (22.1°C) | Average | 7 | $276 |
| July | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | Low | 9 | $444 |
| August | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | Low | 7 | $187 |
| September | 66.9°F (19.4°C) | Average | 8 | $182 |
| October | 53.2°F (11.8°C) | Average | 7 | $313 |
| November | 40.5°F (4.7°C) | Average | 8 | $265 |
| December | 29.3°F (-1.5°C) | Low | 8 | $215 |
*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 McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM)
- Harlingen to Des Moines (HRL-DSM): Valley International Airport (HRL) is located approximately 36 miles from Miller International Airport (MFE). On this route, one-way economy fares generally fall between $115 and $405, varying by season and how far in advance you book. Travelers can choose from both one-stop and multi-stop flights, with common layover points at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). American Airlines and United are the leading carriers for this route, and first-class service is also offered.
- Brownsville to Des Moines (BRO-DSM): Brownsville-South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) is situated about 54 miles from Miller International Airport (MFE). The one-way economy ticket prices for this journey typically range from $155 to $350, influenced by the season and booking timing. This route is primarily available as a one-stop flight, featuring popular layovers at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). American Airlines and United are the main airlines operating this route, with first-class service also available.
How to find the best prices for flights from McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from McAllen 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 usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book within two weeks. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM typically offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Saturday not only provides cheaper options but is also 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 Des Moines International Airport from Miller International Airport
Des Moines welcomes travelers from McAllen 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.
McAllen to Des Moines Flights
The cheapest times to fly from McAllen 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 McAllen to Des Moines are during the month of January. You can find some of the cheapest flights from McAllen to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from McAllen to Des Moines
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $244 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $244 and cheap return flights $315 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $165 and $671, and roundtrip flights usually range from $331 to $1252. 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
April is the cheapest month to fly from McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM), with average return fares around $300. This is about 30% lower than the average price throughout the year, as demand tends to be lower in spring. Other budget-friendly months include January and September.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter MFE to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from McAllen, TX (MFE) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $457. 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The best time to fly from McAllen (MFE) to Des Moines (DSM) is in April or September. Average return flight prices are around $300, making these months both affordable and convenient. April brings mild weather, while September offers a pleasant transition into fall, providing a lovely travel experience.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Miller International (MFE) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, giving you an early start to your trip to Iowa. 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from McAllen, TX (MFE) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) are in the early morning, from 3am to 6am. About 27% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Des Moines early and make the most of your day.
How long does it take to fly from McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flights from MFE to DSM with one stop typically take around 5 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 1,093 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from MFE to DSM. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller 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 Miller Intl. (MFE)?
From Miller Intl. (MFE), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to reach Des Moines. Some flights may connect through major hubs like George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Austin-Bergstrom Intl. (AUS), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW) 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller 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 McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller 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 | Miller Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Des Moines International Airport |
Distance | 1,092 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, United, Delta |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $315 |