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Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is Iowa's busiest commercial airport, located about five miles southwest of downtown Des Moines. It began as a municipal airfield in the 1930s and today offers nonstop flights to major hubs across the United States. A multi-phase terminal modernization project is underway to replace the aging current terminal.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors use the free cell phone lot on McKinley Avenue instead of circling the terminal—it's just a short drive to the curb when your arriving party calls.
🚖 Getting There
The airport is a short drive from downtown via Fleur Drive, and rideshare pickup is on the lower level outside baggage claim. Taxis, hotel shuttles, and DART buses also serve the terminal, though bus frequencies can be limited. If you're driving, follow signs to the parking garage or economy lots; the free cell phone lot is on McKinley Avenue for arrivals.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines serve Des Moines International Airport?
A: Major carriers include Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest, and United, with nonstop service to hubs such as Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, and Atlanta.
Q: How far is DSM from downtown Des Moines?
A: The airport is roughly 5 miles (8 km) southwest of downtown, typically a 10–15 minute drive via Fleur Drive.
Q: Is there public transportation from the airport?
A: DART bus service offers limited connections to downtown and other parts of Des Moines; check current schedules, as rideshare and taxis are more frequent options.
Q: What parking options are available at DSM?
A: The airport has a covered parking garage connected to the terminal plus economy and long-term lots; a free cell phone lot is available for waiting pickups.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 27, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash