Overview of Des Moines International Airport
Des Moines International Airport serves the city of Des Moines, Iowa and its surrounding areas. It is located approximately three miles southwest of downtown Des Moines. The airport is classified as a small-hub primary commercial service facility.
Des Moines International Airport has one terminal building with two concourses and 20 gates. It is served by several major airlines including American, Delta, United, Southwest, and Allegiant. The airport offers non-stop flights to more than 20 destinations across the United States.
Passengers at Des Moines International Airport have access to a variety of amenities and services. These include restaurants, cafes, gift shops, newsstands, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations. The airport also offers a business center, conference rooms, and a VIP lounge for those who need to work or relax before their flight.
Getting to and from Des Moines International Airport is easy and convenient. The airport is accessible via I-35, I-80, and I-235. There are also several parking options available including short-term and long-term parking, economy parking, and valet parking. Additionally, the airport offers several ground transportation options including taxi, rideshare, and rental car services.
Overall, Des Moines International Airport provides a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers. With its convenient location, modern amenities, and excellent customer service, it is a top choice for travelers in the region.
Terminals at Des Moines International Airport
Des Moines International Airport, also known as DSM, has one terminal building with two levels, serving both domestic and international flights. The terminal is designed to provide convenient and efficient services to passengers, with a range of facilities and amenities for travelers of all kinds.
The upper level of the terminal is used for departures and check-in, while the lower level is used for arrivals and baggage claim. The airport offers plenty of parking options, including long-term and short-term parking, valet parking, and curbside pickup and drop-off areas.
The terminal features a variety of dining and shopping options, from fast food and coffee shops to sit-down restaurants and retail stores. There are also several lounges available for travelers who need a quieter space to work or relax before their flight.
Passengers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, as well as charging stations and workstations for those who need to stay connected. Additionally, there are several ATMs, currency exchange services, and information desks available to assist travelers with any questions or needs.
Des Moines International Airport also offers a range of services for passengers with disabilities or special needs, including accessible parking, restrooms, and assistance with boarding and deplaning. The airport also provides rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services for transportation to and from the terminal.
Overall, the terminal at Des Moines International Airport is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient experience for travelers, with a range of amenities and services to make the journey smoother. From dining and shopping to parking and transportation, the terminal has everything travelers need to enjoy their time at the airport and beyond.
Airlines and Destinations
Des Moines International Airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air.
American Airlines offers non-stop flights to Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Phoenix, while Delta Air Lines flies non-stop to Atlanta and Minneapolis. Southwest Airlines provides non-stop service to several domestic destinations, such as Denver, Las Vegas, Orlando, and Phoenix.
United Airlines operates non-stop flights to Chicago, Denver, Houston, and San Francisco, while Allegiant Air offers seasonal service to popular vacation destinations such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Tampa/St. Petersburg.
In addition to these airlines, the Des Moines International Airport also serves several smaller regional airlines, including Air Choice One and Boutique Air, which offer flights to nearby destinations such as Chicago and St. Louis.
It is always recommended to check with specific airlines for any changes in routes, schedules, or seasonal destinations.
Transportation Options at Des Moines International Airport
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) offers a variety of transportation options to help travelers get to and from the airport.
One popular option is shuttle services. There are several companies offering shuttle services to and from the airport, with prices ranging from $25 to $50 depending on your destination. These shuttles can be booked in advance or upon your arrival at the airport.
Another option is car rentals. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Renting a car allows for more freedom and flexibility when exploring the city and surrounding areas.
If you prefer not to rent a car, there are also shuttle bus services available. The DSM Ground Transportation Center is located just outside the baggage claim area and provides scheduled and on-demand shuttle bus services to various destinations in and around Des Moines.
For those traveling further distances, train lines are also available. Amtrak operates two train stations in Iowa, one in Osceola and one in Mount Pleasant, both of which are about an hour’s drive from DSM.
In addition to these options, taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at DSM. Taxis can be found outside the baggage claim area while rideshare pickups are located on the upper level of the parking ramp.
Overall, travelers to and from Des Moines International Airport have a range of transportation options to choose from, making it easy to get where you need to go.
Parking Options at Des Moines International Airport
Des Moines International Airport has several parking options for travelers. The airport offers short-term, long-term, and economy parking options, all conveniently located near the airport terminals.
Short-term parking is available in the covered parking garage located directly in front of the terminal building. The daily rate for short-term parking is $24 a day.
Long-term parking is available in surface lots located just a short walk from the terminals or in the parking garage. The daily rate for long-term parking in the garage is $15 a day, and the surface lot is $10 a day.
For travelers looking for a more budget-friendly option, economy parking is available in surface lots farther from the terminal buildings. The economy lot rates are $8 a day, with a free shuttle service provided to and from the terminals.
Des Moines International Airport also offers valet parking services, located in front of the terminal building for added convenience. The daily rate for valet parking is $24 a day.
Overall, Des Moines International Airport provides affordable and convenient parking options for travelers, with rates varying based on the length of stay and location of the parking lot.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Des Moines International Airport is designed to be quick and efficient. Travelers have several options for checking in, including online, self-service kiosks, and traditional counter service.
Online check-in is available up to 24 hours before a flight’s departure time. Passengers can log in to their airline’s website or app and enter their reservation details, select their seat, and print their boarding pass.
Self-service kiosks are located throughout the terminal and provide a quick and easy way for travelers to check in. Passengers can scan their passport or enter their confirmation number, and the kiosk will print out their boarding pass.
For those who prefer traditional counter service, check-in desks are located near the entrance of the terminal. Passengers can approach an agent, provide their reservation details, and receive a printed boarding pass.
Regardless of the check-in method, it’s important for travelers to arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the process, clear security, and make their way to their gate. At Des Moines International Airport, it’s recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
Security Procedures and Tips
Des Moines International Airport takes security seriously to ensure safe travels for all passengers. Upon arrival, make sure to have a valid form of identification and boarding pass ready for inspection.
All carry-on luggage will be screened for potential threats such as weapons or liquids over 3.4 ounces. Place all electronic devices in a separate bin for easy scanning.
To prevent delays, be aware of prohibited items such as sharp objects and firearms. Additionally, wear easily removable shoes and avoid heavy jewelry or clothing with metal materials.
Remember to follow directions given by TSA agents and stay calm during the screening process. By following these tips, you can help make your security check at Des Moines International Airport a smooth experience.
Customs and Immigration at Des Moines International Airport
The customs and immigration process for arriving passengers at Des Moines International Airport involves filling out a customs declaration form.
Passengers proceed to the immigration checkpoint where their documents, including passports and visas, are inspected.
Once cleared, passengers collect their luggage and proceed through customs, where they declare any goods or items they have brought into the country.
For departing passengers, the process is similar. Passengers undergo security and document checks before proceeding to the customs checkpoint.
They are required to declare any goods they are taking out of the country.
Once cleared, passengers proceed to their gate and board their flight.
Amenities
– Food and beverage options including cafes, restaurants, and bars
– Gift shops and newsstands for last-minute souvenirs or reading materials
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
– Charging stations for electronic devices
– Currency exchange services
– ATMs and banking services
– Luggage storage facilities
– Pet relief areas for furry travelers
– Nursing rooms for mothers with infants
– Public art displays showcasing local artists
Des Moines International Airport offers a wide range of amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient. From dining options to shopping, you’ll find everything you need to pass the time and stay entertained before your flight. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and keep your devices charged at one of the many charging stations located throughout the terminal. Need to exchange currency? Des Moines International Airport has you covered with currency exchange services and ATMs. For those traveling with pets, there are designated relief areas available. Mothers with infants can also take advantage of the private nursing rooms. And for a bit of culture, be sure to check out the public art displays showcasing local artists.
Accessibility Services
Des Moines International Airport strives to provide a comfortable and accessible experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Facilities and services available include designated parking spaces, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair assistance. There are also TTY telephones available for the hearing-impaired.
Passengers can request wheelchair assistance when booking their flight or upon arrival at the airport. Service animals are also allowed inside the terminal building and on flights.
If you require any additional assistance or have questions about accessibility services, please contact the airport directly.
Connecting Flights at Des Moines International Airport
When connecting flights at Des Moines International Airport, it is important to give yourself enough time to catch your next flight.
The airport recommends allowing at least 90 minutes between domestic flights and two hours for international flights. It’s also important to check the monitors for any gate changes or delays in your next flight.
If your arriving flight is delayed, inform the airline staff and they may be able to assist you in making alternative arrangements.
Be sure to also keep track of your luggage and make sure it’s correctly tagged for the next flight. With these tips in mind, catching a connecting flight at Des Moines International Airport can be a stress-free experience.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After landing, passengers will follow signs to baggage claim. Baggage can take up to 20 minutes to arrive.
If baggage does not arrive, passengers should contact their airline’s baggage service office immediately.
To report lost or damaged baggage, passengers should provide their baggage claim ticket and flight information to the baggage service office.
The airport also has a lost and found office for items left on planes or in the terminal. Passengers can file a report or check the online database of found items.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Des Moines International Airport has several procedures in place to ensure the safety of its passengers. The airport has a designated emergency response team that is trained to handle any situation that may arise.
Additionally, the airport has on-site medical facilities, including a first aid station that is staffed by licensed medical professionals. The first aid station is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and can provide basic medical care until further assistance arrives.
If a more serious medical emergency occurs, the airport has an agreement with local hospitals to provide transport for patients in need of medical attention. Emergency medical services are also available on site, and airport personnel are trained in CPR and other lifesaving techniques.
Overall, the safety and security of passengers is a top priority at Des Moines International Airport, and the emergency procedures and medical facilities in place reflect that commitment.
Hotel Accommodations
There are numerous hotel accommodations available within and near Des Moines International Airport. They cater to the needs of various travelers and offer a range of amenities.
1. Ramada by Wyndham Des Moines Airport: Just 1.7 miles from the airport, this hotel offers free shuttle service to the airport, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool.
2. Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport: Located 1.8 miles away from the airport, it offers free airport shuttle, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.
3. Motel 6-Des Moines, IA – Airport: This motel is only 0.9 miles away from the airport and features free morning coffee, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
4. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Airport: Only 2.1 miles from the airport, this hotel offers complimentary shuttle service, free breakfast, and a fitness center.
5. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Airport: Located just 2.2 miles away from the airport, this hotel features a complimentary airport shuttle, free breakfast, and an indoor pool.
Useful Tips for Navigating and Enjoying Des Moines International Airport
As a frequent traveler, I have learned a few insider tips for navigating and enjoying Des Moines International Airport.
Firstly, make sure to check in online and print your boarding pass before arriving at the airport to save time.
Secondly, if you are driving to the airport, consider using the economy parking lot for a more affordable option.
Thirdly, if you have some time to spare before your flight, take a stroll through the art exhibit located near the baggage claim area.
Lastly, grab a bite to eat at Bauder’s Pharmacy, a unique restaurant serving sandwiches and shakes inside the airport terminal.
Contact Information
Airport Information Desk: (515) 256-5050
Lost & Found: (515) 256-5053
Parking Information: (515) 256-5041
Security Information: (515) 256-5049
Customer Service: (515) 256-5050 ext. 1
Flight Information: (515) 256-5050 ext. 2
Airport Police: (515) 256-5050 ext. 3
TSA: (515) 331-1550
Customs & Immigration: (515) 256-5050 ext. 4
Other Airports Near Des Moines International Airport
There are several other airports in the vicinity of Des Moines International Airport:
- Ames Municipal Airport (AMW) – 39 miles north of Des Moines International Airport. Transportation options include renting a car or taking a taxi.
- Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW) – 113 miles north of Des Moines International Airport. Transportation options include renting a car or taking a shuttle service.
- Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) – 118 miles east of Des Moines International Airport. Transportation options include renting a car or taking a shuttle service.
- Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA) – 135 miles southwest of Des Moines International Airport. Transportation options include renting a car, taking a shuttle service, or using the Megabus.
When considering alternative flight options, it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits of transportation to and from these airports.