A modern building with a glass dome, surrounded by lush gardens and a clear blue sky with clouds.

$144 Cheap Flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $144 flight on Tue, Oct 6, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Knoxville to Des Moines (TYS-DSM)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $144 for one-way flights and $287 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Sat, Oct 17
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$287 Roundtrip, found 14 hours ago
$287
Roundtrip
found 14 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $287 found 14 hours ago
Delta
Wed, Jan 20 - Tue, Feb 2
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$287 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$287
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 2, priced at $287 found 21 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Jan 20 - Tue, Feb 2
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$287 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$287
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 2, priced at $287 found 21 hours ago
United
Wed, Jan 20 - Tue, Feb 2
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$292 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$292
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 2, priced at $292 found 21 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Jan 20 - Tue, Feb 2
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$298 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$298
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 2, priced at $298 found 21 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Sat, Oct 17
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$303 Roundtrip, found 14 hours ago
$303
Roundtrip
found 14 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $303 found 14 hours ago
United
Wed, Jan 20 - Tue, Feb 2
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$303 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$303
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 2, priced at $303 found 21 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Jan 20 - Tue, Feb 2
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$308 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$308
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Jan 20 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 2, priced at $308 found 21 hours ago
United
Tue, Oct 6 - Mon, Oct 12
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$311 Roundtrip, just found
$311
Roundtrip
just found
Select United flight, departing Tue, Oct 6 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $311 just found
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Sat, Oct 17
TYS
Knoxville
DSM
Des Moines
$313 Roundtrip, found 14 hours ago
$313
Roundtrip
found 14 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Knoxville to Des Moines, returning Sat, Oct 17, priced at $313 found 14 hours ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to Des Moines (DSM)

October is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $238 - $467 per traveler.

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

Knoxville (TYS) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance

Travel between Knoxville (TYS) and Des Moines (DSM) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Discover options for cheap flights from Knoxville and compare full-service carriers to find the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you plan your journey, take the opportunity to explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Des Moines. Get ready for your next flight from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$440, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

According to the latest bookings by travelers, the most popular airlines flying from Knoxville to Des Moines typically provide one-stop services, with common layovers at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a layover of around 55 minutes. This variety allows passengers to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: As a comprehensive service provider, this airline offers one-stop travel options, with one-way ticket prices generally between $125 and $415. It represents about 43% of the departures for this route, featuring a flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of around 4 hours and 45 minutes, including the layover.
  • Delta: This full-service airline provides one-stop flight options with one-way fares typically falling in the range of $125 to $440. Delta accounts for roughly 36% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total journey time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in the layover.
  • United: Another full-service carrier, United offers one-stop services, with one-way fares usually ranging from $135 to $495. It makes up about 22% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, and an overall travel time of roughly 4 hours and 45 minutes, including the layover.

Best time to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to Des Moines (DSM)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Knoxville to Des Moines are April, July, and September, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 74.8°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 71.8°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $192. Flight availability peaks in April, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. October 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 $192, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: July typically offers an average one-way fare of around $196.
  • Most flight options: April has the highest number of flights from Knoxville to Des Moines, with approximately 10 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)Average8$243
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)Average8$260
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Average8$251
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Moderately High10$215
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Average9$231
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Moderately Low8$219
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Moderately High9$196
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Average9$192
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Moderately High8$218
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Moderately Low7$268
November40.5°F (4.7°C)Average9$260
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Moderately Low8$310

*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 Knoxville (TYS) to Des Moines (DSM)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Knoxville 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures from 5 am to 12 pm often offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday usually provides cheaper rates, while Friday remains the busiest 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 McGhee Tyson Airport

Des Moines welcomes travelers from Knoxville with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, McGhee Tyson Airport is roughly a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from central Knoxville. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $144 and cheap return flights from $287 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $168 to $646, and return flights typically cost between $381 and $1012. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from TYS to DSM is October 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter TYS to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Des Moines (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $248. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) typically departs at around 5:00 AM local time, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in October, allowing you to 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Knoxville, TN (TYS) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. This time window accounts for about 31% of total traffic, with American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines providing flights during this period. Many travelers prefer this timing to make the most of their day.
How long does it take to fly from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flying from TYS to DSM with a connection usually takes about 4 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 654 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the TYS to DSM route. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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 McGhee Tyson (TYS)?
From McGhee Tyson (TYS), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to reach Des Moines. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), Miami Intl. (MIA) 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) 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
McGhee Tyson
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$286
Distance
653 mi

Book with confidence

Knoxville to Des Moines Flights

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

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $144 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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.

 

Knoxville to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia