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$129 Cheap Flights from Louisville (SDF) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $129 flight on Mon, Oct 5, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Louisville Intl. Airport (SDF) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

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Cheap Flights from Louisville to Des Moines (SDF-DSM)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $129 for one-way flights and $262 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Southwest Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Thu, Oct 15
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$262 Roundtrip, found 12 hours ago
$262
Roundtrip
found 12 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Thu, Oct 15, priced at $262 found 12 hours ago
United
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$269 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$269
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $269 found 1 day ago
Delta
Fri, Dec 11 - Mon, Dec 14
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$276 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$276
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Dec 11 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Dec 14, priced at $276 found 7 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Oct 20 - Fri, Oct 23
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$281 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$281
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 20 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Fri, Oct 23, priced at $281 found 21 hours ago
United
Fri, Dec 11 - Mon, Dec 14
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$287 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$287
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Dec 11 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Dec 14, priced at $287 found 7 hours ago
Delta
Fri, Dec 11 - Mon, Dec 14
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$296 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$296
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Dec 11 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Dec 14, priced at $296 found 7 hours ago
United
Fri, Oct 23 - Sat, Oct 24
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$302 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$302
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 23 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 24, priced at $302 found 8 hours ago
United
Fri, Dec 11 - Mon, Dec 14
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$303 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$303
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Dec 11 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Dec 14, priced at $303 found 7 hours ago
United
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$304 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$304
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $304 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Fri, Dec 11 - Mon, Dec 14
SDF
Louisville
DSM
Des Moines
$342 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$342
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Dec 11 from Louisville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Dec 14, priced at $342 found 7 hours 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 $469
DSM
Des Moines Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center10 min
Flights from $469

Find the cheapest month to fly from Louisville (SDF) to Des Moines (DSM)

November is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $232 - $418 per traveler.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $129 and cheap return flights from $262 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $127 and $551, and return flights often range between $325 and $824. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
August is the cheapest month to fly from Louisville (SDF) to Des Moines (DSM), with average return fares around $283. This price is about 27% lower than the average for the year, as demand typically decreases after the summer. Other economical months to consider are April and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter SDF to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
WN is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Louisville, KY (SDF) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $267 with 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The best months to fly from Louisville (SDF) to Des Moines (DSM) are August and November. Return flights during these months average around $283, providing a good balance of affordability and favorable weather conditions. August is popular for summer activities, while November offers a quieter travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Louisville (SDF) to Des Moines (DSM) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by Southwest Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in July, which can help you make the most of your day in Des Moines. Early departures are great for travelers looking to maximize their time at the destination. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Louisville, KY (SDF) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 34% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to maximize your day in Des Moines upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flights from SDF to DSM with one stop typically take around 6 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 479 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
You can fly first class between SDF and DSM. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville 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 Louisville Intl. (SDF)?
From Louisville Intl. (SDF), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to reach Des Moines. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Midway Intl. (MDW), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), Love Field (DAL) 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville 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
Louisville Intl.
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$262
Distance
478 mi

Book with confidence

Louisville to Des Moines Flights

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

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Louisville 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 Louisville 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 Louisville to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $129 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 Louisville 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 Louisville 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.

 

Louisville to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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