$155 Cheap Flights from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Des Moines (DSM)
Popular airlines from Pittsburgh Intl. Airport (PIT) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Pittsburgh to Des Moines (PIT-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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Pittsburgh (PIT) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance
Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) on this domestic short-haul route. Discover options for cheap flights from Pittsburgh, whether you prefer full-service carriers or budget-friendly choices. Compare weekly flights to find the itinerary that best suits your travel plans, allowing you to enjoy the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Des Moines.
- Fastest flight duration: around 3h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
- Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$390, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Based on recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Pittsburgh to Des Moines are frequently selected for their one-stop services, with popular layovers at O'Hare International Airport (ORD, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW, around 55 minutes), and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT, also about 55 minutes). This variety allows you to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes, helping you find the best itinerary to suit your needs.
- American Airlines: This established full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically ranging from $120 to $385. It makes up about 34% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, plus a total travel time of around 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time.
- United: Another reliable full-service option, United offers one-stop service with one-way fares generally between $120 and $390. It accounts for approximately 31% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes and an overall journey time of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in the layover.
- Delta: Delta, a full-service airline, also provides one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices usually falling between $120 and $400. It represents around 29% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of nearly 4 hours and 30 minutes when including the layover.
- Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest Airlines offers one-stop service, with one-way fares typically ranging from $135 to $375. It covers roughly 6% of departures on this route, providing an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel time of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, inclusive of layover time.
Travelers flying from Pittsburgh to Des Moines can elevate their journey with an upgrade to first class on American Airlines, which offers premium service on this route.
Best time to fly from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Des Moines (DSM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Pittsburgh to Des Moines are March, May, and October, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 61.3°F in May. 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, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $193. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 13 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 $193, roughly 18% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $196.
- Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Pittsburgh to Des Moines, with approximately 13 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) | Moderately Low | 8 | $237 |
| February | 24.1°F (-4.4°C) | Moderately Low | 8 | $237 |
| March | 39.6°F (4.2°C) | Moderately High | 11 | $291 |
| April | 50.2°F (10.1°C) | Average | 9 | $253 |
| May | 61.3°F (16.3°C) | Moderately High | 9 | $240 |
| June | 71.8°F (22.1°C) | Average | 10 | $218 |
| July | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | Moderately Low | 9 | $252 |
| August | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | Average | 13 | $196 |
| September | 66.9°F (19.4°C) | Average | 11 | $193 |
| October | 53.2°F (11.8°C) | Moderately High | 11 | $234 |
| November | 40.5°F (4.7°C) | Average | 11 | $241 |
| December | 29.3°F (-1.5°C) | Average | 11 | $256 |
*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 Pittsburgh (PIT) to Des Moines (DSM)
- Pittsburgh to Des Moines (AGC-DSM): Located roughly 20 miles from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), Allegheny County Airport (AGC) serves as a convenient departure point.
- Beaver Falls to Des Moines (BFP-DSM): Beaver County Airport (BFP) is also about 20 miles from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), offering easy access for travelers.
How to find the best prices for flights from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Des Moines (DSM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Pittsburgh 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 typically available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book two to eight weeks ahead. Evening departures between 6 PM and 12 AM often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday generally provides cheaper rates, although Thursday is the busiest 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 Pittsburgh International Airport
Des Moines welcomes travelers from Pittsburgh 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.
Pittsburgh to Des Moines Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Des Moines are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Pittsburgh to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Pittsburgh to Des Moines
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $155 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $155 and cheap return flights $309 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $176 and $614, and return flights often range between $330 and $1002. 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from PIT to DSM is September 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter PIT to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $198. This flight includes a layover in Midway Intl. (MDW). 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Sort flights by "Departure (earliest)" on Expedia to find the earliest flight from PIT to DSM. To compare more early flights, use the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Pittsburgh (PIT) to Des Moines (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 37% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it lets you maximize your day in Des Moines after arriving.
How long does it take to fly from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
A flight from PIT to DSM with a layover takes around 4 hours 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 701 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
You can fly first class between PIT and DSM. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT)?
If you're planning to travel to Des Moines from Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), Liberty Intl. (EWR), 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Pittsburgh, PA (PIT-Pittsburgh 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 | Pittsburgh Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Des Moines International Airport |
Distance | 701 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest Airlines |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $309 |