Des Moines Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

The Des Moines metropolitan area, Iowa’s capital and economic center, is primarily served by one main commercial airport. Unlike larger hubs, air traffic for the region is consolidated at a single, modern, and convenient facility located close to the city. This guide provides essential information about Des Moines’ primary airport, its layout, and transportation options.

Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Overview: Des Moines International Airport is the primary commercial airport serving Iowa. Despite its name, it currently handles almost exclusively domestic flights. Located just 5 miles (8 km) southwest of downtown Des Moines, it is exceptionally convenient and known for its ease of navigation. It is a focus city for Allegiant Air and American Airlines.

Terminals: DSM operates from a single, modern passenger terminal with two concourses connected post-security.

• Main Terminal: Houses all ticketing, check-in, and baggage claim facilities. It is compact and easy to navigate.
• Concourse A (Gates A1-A5): Primarily serves American Airlines and United Airlines.
• Concourse B (Gates B1-B9): Serves Allegiant Air, Delta Air Lines, and Frontier Airlines. This is the newer concourse.

The two concourses are connected airside via a short walkway, making connections between gates very easy. The entire facility is under one roof, with no need for trains or buses between gates.

Getting to and from DSM:

• Taxi:
  Taxi service is available outside the baggage claim area on the ground level of the terminal. While not as prolific as in larger cities, cabs are typically available upon flight arrivals. The fare to downtown Des Moines is approximately $15-$25.
• Ride-hailing (Uber, Lyft):
  The most convenient and popular door-to-door option. Designated pick-up areas are located on the ground level, just outside baggage claim. Fares to downtown or western suburbs are generally $10-$20.
• Car Rental:
  The Rental Car Center is conveniently located directly across from the terminal, accessible via a short, covered walkway on the ground level. All major national rental companies are present.
• Hotel Shuttles:
  Many area hotels, especially those near the airport or along the I-80/I-35 corridor, offer complimentary shuttle service. Check with your hotel in advance for availability and pickup instructions.
• Public Bus (Des Moines Area Regional Transit – DART):
  Route 52 provides service between the airport (stop located on the ground level near baggage claim) and downtown Des Moines/DART Central Station. It is affordable but infrequent (hourly). Check the schedule in advance.
• Driving:
  DSM is easily accessible via Army Post Road and is minutes from the interchange of I-80 and I-35. Parking is abundant and relatively affordable compared to major hubs, with hourly, daily, and economy lots available.

Best for: All travellers to Des Moines and central Iowa. It is the state’s busiest and most well-equipped commercial airport.

Other Area Airports

Ankeny Regional Airport (IKV): A general aviation airport north of Des Moines in Ankeny. It handles private aircraft and flight training but no scheduled commercial service.

Boone Municipal Airport (BNW): A small general aviation airport north of Des Moines. No commercial service.

Key Point: For airline travel to the Des Moines area, you will fly into Des Moines International Airport (DSM).

Essential Information for Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Before You Go:

• Flights: DSM offers non-stop domestic service to major airline hubs (Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, Denver, Phoenix, Charlotte, etc.) and leisure destinations (Orlando, Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Tampa, Punta Gorda) via Allegiant. There are currently no scheduled international flights.
• Check-in: DSM is renowned for its short security lines. Arriving 90 minutes before a domestic flight is typically more than sufficient, even during peak times. For early morning flights (5-7 AM), allow up to 2 hours as TSA lanes may not all be open.
• Parking: Parking is straightforward. The Garage is connected to the terminal. Surface Lot A is a short walk. Economy Lot B is a bit farther and offers a free shuttle. All lots have credit card/contactless payment options.

Upon Arrival:

• Process: Deplane, walk a short distance to the central baggage claim area on the ground level, collect luggage, and exit. The process is typically very quick.
• Ground Transport: As you exit baggage claim, you will see doors leading directly to the curbside for taxis and ride-hailing, the walkway to the rental car center, and the hotel shuttle pickup area. Signage is clear.

Departing:

• Food & Amenities: Dining and shopping options are limited but adequate for a regional airport. There are sit-down and fast-food options both pre- and post-security. Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal.
• TSA: There is one central TSA security checkpoint. Wait times are usually under 15 minutes.

Travel Tips for Des Moines

Seasonal Weather: Iowa experiences four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with snow and ice, which may cause occasional flight delays. Summers are warm and humid. Always check the weather forecast before your flight.

Business Travel: DSM is a major hub for the insurance and financial services industries. Weekday mornings and Sunday evenings can see increased passenger traffic, but security wait times remain manageable.

Convenience: The airport’s proximity to downtown (a 10-15 minute drive) is a major advantage. It’s often possible to leave a downtown office or hotel and be at your gate within an hour.

Lack of International Service: For international travel, you will need to connect through a major hub like Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Atlanta (ATL), or Denver (DEN). There are no customs or immigration facilities at DSM for scheduled commercial flights.

Bottom line: Des Moines International Airport is a model of regional airport efficiency. It is small, clean, easy to navigate, and incredibly convenient to the city. Transportation is simple, with ride-hailing, rental cars, and affordable parking being the top choices. Travellers appreciate its stress-free experience compared to larger hubs. Just remember it’s a domestic-only facility, so plan connections accordingly for international journeys.