Des Moines Airports Travel Guide

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Cassidy Rush is a writer with a background in careers, business, and education. She covers international finance news and stories for Remitly.

Key Highlights

Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the main place to fly in and out of for the greater Des Moines area. It is Iowa’s way to get to other places across the world.
You will see many major airlines at DSM Airport, and they fly over 35 nonstop routes to favorite spots all around the country.
The airport is making big changes, and a new terminal will open in 2027. This will help DSM have more flights and airlines.
There are many ways to get in and out of the des moines airport, with convenient ground transportation and parking options. You can now also use a new online reservation system.
This guide gives you all the main details you need for your trip through des moines international airport.

Introduction

Welcome to your simple travel guide for flying in or out of Des Moines, Iowa. It does not matter if this is your first trip, or you fly a lot, because airports can be hard to get around. This guide is here to help you get through Des Moines International Airport with less stress and make your trip smooth. You will find all you need to know when you are looking for your flight or when you want to see what is at the airport. We have put all the main points together for you. Get ready for your next trip from Des Moines!

Overview of Des Moines Airports

When you travel to or from central Iowa, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the top pick. It is the main airport in the area. Many people use it because it connects them with places all over the United States. This makes travel easy and convenient for a lot of people.

But, it is good to know about some other airports near the area. Where you want to go could make airports in Iowa, Missouri (MO), or Illinois (IL) good options for you. Below, we will talk about Des Moines International Airport and some other airports close by. This will help you plan your trip with more choices.

Des Moines International Airport (DSM) – Main Hub

Des Moines International Airport, with its IATA code DSM, is the main airport for Greater Des Moines and much of central Iowa. It is the busiest airport in the state. The airport handles a lot of business and vacation travelers. People can take flights to many different places from here. Its location helps the region stay connected and supports the local economy.

At Des Moines International, you can fly with many well-known airlines. There are big names like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The airport also has low-cost options like Southwest Airlines and Allegiant Air. This gives you choices for both price and places to go.

The airport is always working to get better and serve people well. There are new changes and upgrades being made. With its focus on a good travel experience, DSM will stay the top airport in the region for many years.

Nearby Regional Airports and Alternatives

Des Moines, or DSM, is the main airport, but there are other regional airports you can use. Depending on your travel plans, landing at a smaller airport might help you save time. You might also find more convenient flight times. These airports have flights to many places in Iowa and to states close by, like Illinois and Missouri.

Trying out these other options can help you get better prices or easier flights to cities not right by Des Moines, such as Iowa City or Davenport. For instance, The Eastern Iowa Airport is a big option in Cedar Rapids.

Here are some of the closest airports to Des Moines you can choose for your trip:

The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID): This is in Cedar Rapids and about 103 miles from DSM.
Eppley Airfield (OMA): This one is about 118 miles from DSM, and it is in Omaha, NE.
Sioux Gateway Airport (SUX): You can find it in Sioux City, and it is 153 miles from DSM.
Quad City International Airport (MLI): This airport is 163 miles from DSM and is in Moline, Illinois.

Airlines and Direct Flight Destinations from Des Moines

Des Moines International Airport gives you many choices when it comes to airlines and direct flights. If you want to go on a trip or need to travel for work, the DSM Airport helps you get to top hubs and favorite spots around the country. The airport has a big network of nonstop routes.

Des Moines International is always looking for ways to grow. It now has some new routes, which means there are more options for you and it’s easier to find the flight you want. Here are some of the top airlines at DSM and the great places they can help you reach.

Major Airlines Serving DSM

You can find both known major carriers and cheap airlines at Des Moines International Airport. There are many choices, so you will get flights that fit your plans and what you want to spend. No matter if you want the best service, or just need the lowest price, des moines international has something for you. With all these airlines, DSM is a big airport in the Midwest.

They have a lot of flight options. You will be able to get to many places around the country and the world. These airlines are known for being reliable. You can take a long trip across the country, or just a shorter flight nearby, out of Des Moines. They will be able to help with what you are looking for.

Some of the main airlines that fly from DSM are:

American Airlines
Delta Air Lines
United Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Allegiant Air
Frontier Airlines

Popular Non-Stop and Connecting Flight Routes

From Des Moines, you can fly directly to over 35 destinations, making it easy to reach major cities for business or leisure. Popular nonstop routes include flights to major hubs like Chicago, Denver, and Dallas, which offer countless connecting opportunities. You can also fly directly to vacation hotspots such as Las Vegas, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale.

Excitingly, DSM has recently expanded its service with new routes. American Airlines has added nonstop flights to Philadelphia and Los Angeles, while Allegiant Air now offers service to Boston and several Florida destinations. These new routes provide even more travel options.

Here are some of the popular nonstop destinations available from DSM:

Destination	State
Chicago (ORD)	IL
Denver (DEN)	CO
Los Angeles (LAX)	CA
Orlando (MCO)	FL
New York City (LGA)	NY
Las Vegas (LAS)	NV

Facilities, Amenities, and Services at Des Moines International Airport

Your comfort and ease are important at Des Moines International Airport. You will find many facilities and things to help you while you are at DSM. These will help make your visit good and help you get things done. The airport wants every person who comes in to have a smooth–travel time.

The new terminal at Des Moines International is coming soon. With this new terminal, you will see more things offered. Right now, you can use different services that make your travel simple. These include eating, shopping, and staying in touch with people.

Shopping, Dining, and Lounges

Yes, you can find many shopping and dining options inside Des Moines International Airport. These choices help you spend your time before your flight. If you want a quick snack, a sit-down meal, or need to shop for some last-minute things, the airport has what you need. There are many restaurants and shops for all tastes and needs at des moines international.

You will see different places to eat, like coffee shops and fast-food spots, or you can sit down at a full-service restaurant. People who want to shop can stop by the retail stores and buy news, books, souvenirs, or other items.

When you wait for your flight at Des Moines International Airport in Iowa, you can check out:

Quick Bites: You can grab a coffee, pastry, or sandwich before you board.
Sit-Down Restaurants: Take your time at one of the airport’s restaurants and have a nice meal.
Retail Shops: Look for magazines, snacks, or Iowa-themed gifts.
Airport Lounges: If you are allowed, you can relax in a nice lounge.

The airport at des moines makes it easy for you to find something good to eat or shop for what you need.

Accessibility, Wi-Fi, and Family-Friendly Services

Des Moines International Airport works hard to make every traveler feel welcome. The airport gives you many services for more comfort and easy use, including accessible restrooms, parking, and other help in the terminal. If you need special help, be sure to call your airline before you go.

You can get free Wi-Fi all through the airport. This makes it easy to keep up with emails, use the web, or watch something fun while you wait at Des Moines International Airport. It is one of the things the airport gives you to make your time there better.

If you travel with family, DSM Airport has things set up to help you. There are family restrooms with changing tables for small children. The airport is not very big, so it is easier to get around with kids. This can make your trip more relaxed from the start.

Getting To and From Des Moines International Airport

Getting to Des Moines International Airport is easy and convenient. This airport is only five miles southwest of downtown Des Moines, IA. Because of this, it does not take much time to get there from the city or other places nearby. It helps make your travel day stress-free.

You can pick from many transportation options to get to and from DSM. You might want to drive your own car, use a taxi, or pick a rideshare. Just pick the one that fits your needs and what you want to spend. We will share these choices with you so you can plan your trip without worry.

Ground Transportation Options (Taxi, Rideshare, Public Transit)

Getting from downtown Des Moines to the airport is easy. The city offers many transportation options. Taxis and rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft let you travel directly to the terminal. They have special places outside the terminal for picking up or dropping you off. Many people like them because they are convenient.

If you want to save money, the local bus system is another good way to go. The Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) can take you where you need to be. You can check their bus schedules to find a route that fits your travel time.

Here are the main transportation options for the Des Moines Airport:

Taxis: You can find a taxi at the airport any time you need one.
Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are both easy ways to get to or from the terminal.
Public Transit: Use DART buses if you want a budget choice, and check for routes that go to the airport area.

Driving Directions and Car Rentals

If you like to drive your own car, getting to DSM is easy. The airport is only about five miles from downtown Des Moines, so you will get there in around 12 minutes. It is close to main roads, so no matter where you start in this part of Iowa, you can find the DSM terminal without much trouble.

If you fly into Des Moines and need a car, you will see rental car companies there at the airport. Their rental counters are by the baggage claim area. This helps you get your vehicle and go on your way fast. It is a good idea to book your car early. This helps you a lot, especially when many people travel.

Renting a car lets you see Des Moines and other parts of Iowa whenever you want. The airport sits by several big highways, so you can start your trip soon after you land.

Parking at Des Moines International Airport

Parking at Des Moines International Airport is made to be simple and easy. The airport has many parking choices for people. No matter if you are going on a trip for a few hours or many days, you will find something you need. There are short-term and long-term lots, and all of them are close to the terminal.

Now at DSM Airport, you get a new option to book your parking spot online before you go. This makes things even more convenient for you. You will have a spot ready for you, and your time at the airport will be smoother.

Short-Term, Long-Term, and Economy Parking Options

There is a lot of parking at Des Moines International Airport. You can pick from different options based on how much you want to spend and how long you want to stay. You will find a good lot for you, whether you need to park for a few hours or for weeks.

If you come to pick up or drop off someone, the short-term parking garage is the closest one to the terminal. If you are out of town for a few days, it is better to use the long-term lots. They cost less for longer stays. The airport also has several economy parking lots that are the cheapest for longer trips. You can use the shuttle to get from there to the airport terminal.

Your main parking options when you use Des Moines International Airport are:

Short-Term Parking: Found in the garage and good for short times.
Long-Term Parking: Pay daily in the garage or in outside lots.
Economy Parking: Choose from Blue, Red, or Grey lots for the lowest daily rates and use the shuttle to go to the terminal.

Parking Rates and Online Reservations

Parking rates at DSM Airport change based on the lot you pick. If you park closer to the terminal, you will pay more each hour and each day. Economy lots have the lowest daily rates you can get. For the most up-to-date prices, it is a good idea to check the official DSM Airport site.

There is now a fantastic and convenient way for you to reserve your spot online. This new service lets you book and pay for your parking in the garage before you travel. When you use this, you will have a space waiting for you. This removes the worry of driving around looking for a parking spot, especially on a busy day.

Right now, you can use the online reservation system for the parking garage only. However, there are plans to offer it in more lots soon. If you use this useful service, your time leaving from DSM Airport can be easier and go well.

Security and Check-In Tips for Travelers

Getting through check-in and security at the DSM Airport terminal can be quick and easy if you get ready before you go. To make your trip start well, take some time to learn about how things work at the airport before you get there.

If you know what the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) looks for, and you bring the right papers, you can move through the lines faster. Here are some tips to help you get ready for security checks and check-in at Des Moines International Airport.

TSA Procedures and Wait Times

When you get to the security checkpoint at DSM, you will need to follow the normal TSA rules. Have your boarding pass ready with a photo ID from the government. Give these to the TSA officer. You also need to put your carry-on bags, any electronic items bigger than a cell phone, and your outside clothes in bins for X-ray checks.

The wait time at security can change. It depends on the time, the day, and the year. Des Moines is known to be quick. Still, it is good to check wait times before you go to the airport. You might see up-to-date information either on the main des moines airport website or the MyTSA app.

If you join TSA PreCheck, you can get through faster. You will not have to take off your shoes, belts, light jackets, or take out your laptop. If you follow all TSA rules, it makes the line move well for people in moines and helps keep your trip smooth.

The History and Growth of Des Moines International Airport

The story of Des Moines International Airport is one of steady growth and change. It started small, but over time, it grew to keep up with passenger growth and new changes in flying. As it expanded, the airport followed the city of Des Moines as it changed, too.

The airport is a busy place now because of this long journey of improvement. Its past and the big goals for its future show how it wants to help people and connect Iowa with many places in the world. Let’s take a look at its history and what’s coming next for this important part of Des Moines.

Early Beginnings and Expansion

The history of the DSM Airport began when it was just a small airfield. Like many other airports in the country, it started by helping only a few planes and people. As time went by, air travel became more common. Des Moines kept growing as a city, and so did the need for a bigger airport that could do more.

This growth pushed the city to make the airfield bigger. The runways got longer. A real terminal was added. New tech was used to make things better and safer for everyone. Each time they added or changed something, it was because people in the area needed more from their airport.

The change from that basic airfield to the busy DSM Airport you see today shows how people in moines always planned for the future. The story of this airport is a big part of how central Iowa grew. The terminal and more flights have helped many people who live in and visit iowa.

Recent Developments and Future Plans

The growth at DSM Airport is still going strong. To keep up with the rise in passenger numbers and help make travel better, the airport is building a new terminal. This new building is one of the biggest projects in the history of Des Moines International Airport.

The new terminal will bring a lot of good things. There will be six more gates. That means DSM Airport will have 19 gates in total. This will help the airport work with more airlines and open new routes. The idea is to keep travel at DSM easy and convenient for everyone now and in the future.

The new terminal is set to open in January 2027. This big step shows that Des Moines International is moving forward, ready to be a handy and modern airport for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Many people ask about what they can do at Des Moines International Airport. One common question is about which airlines fly nonstop from DSM. The big airlines like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have direct flights to well-liked places. You can fly to Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, and Dallas with these airlines.

People also want to know about transportation options. They often ask how to get to cities close by, such as Iowa City or Cedar Rapids. You can find short-term parking at Des Moines International Airport. This is helpful if you need to pick someone up and want a spot to park for a short time.

What is the official website for Des Moines International Airport?

The official website for Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is flydsm.com. On the site, you will find up-to-date flight info, news, and details about parking and ground transportation. If you plan to travel through Des Moines International in IA, this is the best place to get what you need.

Are there restaurants or shops inside the airport?

Yes, Des Moines International Airport has many places to eat and shop for travelers. You can get a quick snack, stop for a meal, or shop right before your flight. The airport gives you many choices for food and shopping to make your time there better.

Which airports are located near Des Moines?

Besides Des Moines International, there are a few more airports in the area. The Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids is one of them. Another choice is Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Nebraska. These places give travelers in and around central Iowa more ways to fly.

Conclusion

To sum up, getting around the Des Moines airports is simple, thanks to all the information ready for travelers. This guide helps you know more about the main place to fly, Des Moines International Airport. It also shows you some nearby airports and places you can get to by direct flights. You will find many facilities and amenities, plus a lot of transportation options, so your trip will be easy and less stressful. It does not matter if you are flying in or out. If you follow tips on airport security and parking, your travel time will be even better. There is no need to wait—enjoy everything that Des Moines has for you. If you want your travel to be even smoother, book a talk with one of our travel experts today!