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$149 Cheap Flights from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $149 flight on Tue, Oct 27, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

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Cheap Flights from Norfolk to Des Moines (ORF-DSM)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $149 for one-way flights and $297 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$297 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$297
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $297 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$302 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$302
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $302 found 1 day ago
Delta
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$317 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$317
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $317 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$318 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$318
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $318 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$318 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$318
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $318 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$323 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$323
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $323 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$329 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$329
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $329 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$335 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$335
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $335 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$340 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$340
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $340 found 1 day ago
United
Wed, Oct 14 - Sat, Oct 17
ORF
Norfolk
DSM
Des Moines
$347 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$347
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 14 from Norfolk to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $347 found 1 day ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $206 - $616 per traveler.

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

Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Norfolk International Airport (ORF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) on this domestic short-haul route. Evaluate your options between full-service and budget-friendly carriers to discover cheap flights from Norfolk that align with your schedule and travel preferences. As you prepare for your upcoming trip, get ready to experience the notable attractions and neighborhoods of Des Moines.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 4 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,000 miles (1,610 km)
  • Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$400, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Norfolk International Airport (ORF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Norfolk to Des Moines are favored for their one-stop services, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW, around 50 minutes), and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT, about 1 hour and 15 minutes). These options provide the flexibility to balance cost, overall travel time, and cabin class while crafting the best itinerary for your journey.

  • American Airlines: This comprehensive service airline provides one-stop flights with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $125 and $400. It represents about 41% of departures for this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 5h 15m (including layover).
  • Delta: Offering a full-service experience, Delta's one-stop flights have one-way fares ranging from $120 to $415. It accounts for roughly 34% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 4 hours and a total journey duration of around 5h 15m (including layover).
  • United: Known for its full-service offerings, United provides one-stop flights with one-way prices typically between $120 and $370. It makes up about 24% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 4 hours and an estimated total travel time of 5h 15m (including layover).
  • Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest Airlines offers one-stop services with one-way fares usually ranging from $210 to $310. It comprises approximately 1% of departures on this route, with a flight duration of 4 hours and a total journey time of about 5h 15m (including layover).

Travelers flying from Norfolk to Des Moines can opt for an upgrade, as Delta provides first-class service on this route for a more comfortable journey.

Best time to fly from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Norfolk to Des Moines are March, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 74.8°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 40.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $206). Flight availability peaks in July, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: November usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $206, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: April, October, and August typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $213 to $225.
  • Most flight options: July has the highest number of flights from Norfolk to Des Moines, with approximately 13 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)Average7$258
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)Low8$238
March39.6°F (4.2°C)High8$272
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Average8$213
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Average10$264
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Average11$227
July74.8°F (23.8°C)High13$227
August73.4°F (23.0°C)High10$225
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Average8$229
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Average10$222
November40.5°F (4.7°C)Low7$206
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Low9$277

*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 Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM)

  • Richmond to Des Moines (RIC-DSM): Richmond International Airport (RIC) is located approximately 75 miles from Norfolk International Airport (ORF). One-way economy ticket prices for this route generally fall between $120 and $430, influenced by the season and time of booking. This journey is predominantly served by one-stop flights, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT). Major airlines operating this route include Delta and American Airlines. Additionally, first-class service is offered on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Norfolk 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 usually available when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., often feature lower prices and are the most popular flight times, while flying on Thursday provides both affordability and high demand among travelers.
  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 Norfolk International Airport

Des Moines welcomes travelers from Norfolk 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $149 and cheap return flights from $297 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $191 to $826, and return flights typically cost between $318 and $1145. 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Norfolk, VA (ORF) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with average return fares around $254. This price is about 43% lower than the average fare throughout the year, as September is generally a quieter travel month. Other affordable months to consider are August and October.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter ORF to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Norfolk, VA (ORF) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $283. 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
When flying from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM), September and August are the best months to consider. September offers return flights at approximately $254, making it a budget-friendly option. August is also popular, ensuring you have plenty of flight choices. These months are ideal for balancing cost and travel convenience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM) usually departs at 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This service is seasonal, active in May, and an early departure can help you make the most of your day 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Norfolk (ORF) to Des Moines (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 38% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta Airlines, United Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to start your day early and make the most of your time in Des Moines.
How long does it take to fly from Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flights from ORF to DSM with one stop typically take around 4 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 985 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the ORF to DSM route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk 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 Norfolk Intl. (ORF)?
From Norfolk Intl. (ORF), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to reach Des Moines. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI), Midway Intl. (MDW) 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk 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 Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Norfolk, VA (ORF-Norfolk 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
Norfolk Intl.
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$296
Distance
984 mi

Book with confidence

Norfolk to Des Moines Flights

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

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $149 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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.

 

Norfolk to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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