Best Flights starting from $315
from$315economy
Dallas (DFW)
Thu, May 7
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Thu, May 21
from$315economy
Dallas (DFW)
Fri, May 8
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Fri, May 22
from$326economy
Dallas (DFW)
Mon, May 11
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Mon, May 25
from$336economy
Dallas (DFW)
Sun, May 10
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Sun, May 24
from$407economy
Dallas (DFW)
Tue, May 5
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Tue, May 19
from$411economy
Dallas (DFW)
Wed, May 6
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Wed, May 20
from$420economy
Dallas (DFW)
Sat, May 9
Roundtrip
Des Moines (DSM)
Sat, May 23
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Other Destinations
Dallas (DFW) to Miami (MIA) in May from $28
From $28
Dallas (DFW) to New Orleans (MSY) in May from $44
From $44
Dallas (DFW) to Kansas City (MCI) in May from $46
From $46
Dallas (DFW) to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) in May from $56
From $56
Dallas (DFW) to San Diego (SAN) in May from $56
From $56
Dallas (DFW) to Denver (DEN) in May from $58
From $58
Flights from Other Cities
Chicago (ORD) to Des Moines (DSM) in May from $157
From $157
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to Des Moines (DSM) in May from $168
From $168
Ontario (ONT) to Des Moines (DSM) in May from $270
From $270
Orlando (MCO) to Des Moines (DSM) in May from $335
From $335
Newark (EWR) to Des Moines (DSM) in May from $338
From $338
New York (LGA) to Des Moines (DSM) in May from $351
From $351
✈️ Flight Guide: Dallas (DFW) → Des Moines (DSM)
Complete travel information for your May journey
May is a busy travel month from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) due to spring conferences, graduations, and warmer weather. Travelers from Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, and Plano should expect increased demand around Memorial Day weekend, so book early and consider midweek departures. Airlines serving this route typically schedule a mix of nonstop and one-stop services; American Airlines often provides multiple daily flights from DFW. Use fare alerts and flexible date searches to find the best May deals, and plan ground transit time carefully—DFW can experience peak traffic during late-spring events. Popular nearby destinations accessible from DFW include downtown Dallas, Fort Worth Stockyards, Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, and shopping centers in Plano and Frisco.
Departing from Dallas (DFW) FAQs
A nonstop flight from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. Total travel time will increase if you factor in check-in, security, ground transfers and possible connections. For the best on-time performance in May, check morning departures which often face fewer weather delays.
Yes — several carriers operate nonstop or single-stop services between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM) during May. Availability varies by carrier and day of week, so book early for peak May travel. Use airline websites or Google Flights to confirm current nonstop schedules and seat availability.
To find cheap flights DFW to DSM in May, compare fares across multiple search engines, set price alerts, and be flexible with departure days—Tuesday and Wednesday often show lower fares. Consider booking 3–6 weeks before travel for intra-US routes, and look for early-morning or late-night departures which can be less expensive. Don’t forget loyalty programs and discount codes from carriers operating out of DFW.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is accessible via DFW Airport TEXRail, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) connections, rideshare, taxis, and highways I-635 and TX-121. DFW serves the broader Metroplex including Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, and Frisco, making it a major gateway for North Texas travelers. Allow extra time for traffic during weekday peak hours when traveling from downtown Dallas or Fort Worth.
Yes — May often brings increased demand for both business and leisure travel due to graduations, conventions, and Memorial Day weekend, which can affect flight frequency and fares between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Expect fares to rise for holiday weekends; booking in advance and traveling midweek can help secure lower prices. Check airline calendars for special seasonal flights or extra frequencies in May.
For flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), check your airline’s baggage policy ahead of time; most mainline carriers include a carry-on and a personal item, with checked bag fees varying by fare class. Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic departures in May to allow for security lines and potential holiday crowds. Use mobile boarding passes and consider TSA PreCheck to speed up screening.
Arrivals at Des Moines International Airport (DSM) in May benefit from generally pleasant spring weather and active cultural calendars. Travelers coming from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) should expect busy periods around Memorial Day and local university events in Ames. Plan ahead for ground transportation into West Des Moines, downtown Des Moines, or Ames, and reserve rental cars early in May to avoid premium pricing. Local attractions such as the Des Moines Farmers' Market and outdoor festivals draw visitors, so account for possible traffic when scheduling onward travel.
Arriving at Des Moines (DSM) FAQs
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) offers rental cars, rideshare pickup zones, taxis, and shuttle services to downtown Des Moines and nearby West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Ames. In May, demand for rental cars can increase during major events, so reserve ahead for the best rates. Local transit and on-demand rideshare remain reliable for short trips into the city center.
Yes — May can bring an uptick in arrivals to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) for academic events, business conferences, and spring festivals, which sometimes lead airlines to add extra frequencies. It’s a good idea to monitor flight status the day before travel and arrive prepared for slightly longer ground-transport waits during peak event days. Book return travel early if your trip coincides with large May gatherings to avoid sold-out flights.
From Des Moines International Airport (DSM) you can quickly reach West Des Moines, downtown Des Moines, Ankeny, Ames, and the Des Moines Riverwalk. Popular attractions include the State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Iowa State University in Ames, and the Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines. These destinations are typically 10–45 minutes by car depending on traffic levels in May.
May weather in Iowa is usually mild but can include spring storms or heavy rain which occasionally lead to delays at Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Airlines typically adjust schedules for severe weather; check your airline’s flight status and subscribe to alerts the week of travel. Allow extra time for ground transfers if storms are forecasted during your arrival.
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) handles domestic U.S. arrivals, so travelers from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) will collect checked baggage at the domestic baggage claim area and exit directly. Baggage handling is efficient at DSM, but allow 15–30 minutes after arrival for claim, especially during busy May weekends. For any oversized or delayed baggage, contact your airline’s baggage service office located in the terminal.
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Events and Festivals Affecting DFW to DSM Travel in May
Key May events that can affect travel between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM) include Memorial Day travel peaks, university graduations in both regions, and spring festivals such as Des Moines' arts and farmers' markets. Dallas and Fort Worth host graduations and corporate conferences that increase outbound demand from DFW, while Des Moines draws visitors for cultural events and college ceremonies that boost inbound traffic. If traveling in May, book flights and ground transport early, especially during holiday weekends and local festival dates. CTA: Check event dates and secure flights now to avoid premium pricing.
Best Time to Fly from DFW to DSM — May Recommendations
For May travel from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) and early-morning flights typically offer the best mix of price and on-time performance. Avoid holiday weekends such as Memorial Day when fares spike and availability tightens. If you must travel on peak days, book several weeks in advance and opt for refundable or changeable fares when possible to protect against schedule shifts.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights — DFW to DSM in May
Nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) offer the fastest and most convenient travel, typically around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. Connecting flights may be cheaper but add risk of missed connections, especially during spring weather in May; choose longer layovers if you go this route. For time-sensitive trips around May events, prioritize nonstop schedules; if saving money is the main goal, compare one-stop itineraries and include potential baggage transfer times in your planning.
Airline Comparison — DFW to DSM in May
American Airlines provides robust service from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and often offers the most nonstop options to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) in May, with competitive schedules for business travelers. Regional partners and carriers like United Airlines may list one-stop options via their hubs; these can be less expensive but add travel time. Compare ticket classes—basic economy vs main cabin—for baggage allowances and change fees, and use loyalty program status to secure preferred seating or waived fees when possible. For May travel, weigh schedule convenience against potential cost savings and loyalty benefits when choosing an airline.
Seasonal Travel Tips for May — DFW to DSM
May travel between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM) can involve warm Texas temperatures on departure and cooler, changeable weather upon arrival in Iowa. Pack layered clothing for spring storms and cool evenings, and monitor weather forecasts for potential delays. For airport logistics, arrive early during holiday weekends and consider TSA PreCheck to expedite security at DFW. Always check airline alerts the day before travel and keep digital copies of boarding passes and itineraries for smoother processing. CTA: Verify your flight status and local weather 24 hours before departure for a stress-free May trip.
Flight Time and Schedules — DFW to DSM (May)
Nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) usually take about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. Airlines tend to schedule multiple daily departures with higher frequency during business peak times and weekends in May; early-morning flights generally see the best on-time performance. If flying with a connection, choose longer layovers to cushion against spring storm-related delays common in the Midwest. Check live airline schedules the week of travel for any May-specific adjustments tied to demand or operational changes.
How to Find Cheap Flights — Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) to Des Moines (DSM) in May
To score cheap flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) in May, be flexible with travel dates and times—Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the lowest fares. Use fare alerts, check multiple OTAs and airline sites, and consider one-stop itineraries if nonstop fares are high. Book 3–6 weeks before May travel for a balance of price and availability, and subscribe to airline newsletters for flash sales. For immediate savings, search for early-morning departures and compare nearby airports if feasible, though DFW is the primary Dallas-area hub. CTA: Compare DFW to DSM fares now and set up price alerts to lock in the best May rates.