Chicago, IL CHI to Des Moines, IA DSM flight with United

Fri, Jul 03
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Journey information

Overview: Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA flight

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Icon of flight

Flights from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA depart on average 39 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $76 (€62) but you can travel from only $41 (€34) by bus.

There are 5 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:10, the last at 23:05. The fastest flight covers the 307 miles (495 km) distance in 1h 20m. November is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $41 (€34)
Distance
307 miles (495 km)
Average flight duration
1h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
$76 (€62)
Flights per day
39
Direct flights
5
Fastest flight
1h 20m
First flight
12:10 AM
Last flight
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
84 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $41 (€34)

The cheapest and fastest flights from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA

Showing times and prices for Jul 03

Cheapest price

$363

Average price

$593

Fastest journey

1 h 28 m

Average duration

1 h 31 m

Flights per day

64

Distance

495 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA will cost around $593 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $363.

Fast flights

Of the 64 flights that leave Chicago, IL for Des Moines, IA onFri, Jul 03, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 03 the direct flights cover the 495 km distance in an average of 1 h 31 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 28 m .

On Fri, Jul 03 the longest flights will take 1 h 33 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • UnitedUA1803
    8:42 AM1h35
    O'Hare International Airport
    10:17 AMDes Moines International Airport
    $3631One-way
    0 transfers
  • UnitedUA1839
    9:25 PM1h31
    O'Hare International Airport
    10:56 PMDes Moines International Airport
    $3631One-way
    0 transfers
  • UnitedUA1781
    12:59 PM1h28
    O'Hare International Airport
    2:27 PMDes Moines International Airport
    $3631One-way
    0 transfers
  • UnitedUA5230
    4:36 PM1h33
    O'Hare International Airport
    6:09 PMDes Moines International Airport
    $3631One-way
    0 transfers
  • UnitedUA1325
    7:45 PM1h37
    O'Hare International Airport
    9:22 PMDes Moines International Airport
    $3631One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, and a flight costs an average of $76.

Distance: 307 miles (495 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$256

Average price

$78

Average price

Cheapest

$78

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 28m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 19m

Average total duration

7h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 4m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

United

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is a bus with an average price of $78 (€64).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA:

A bus is $178 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA costing on average $256 (€210).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 28m.

Other travel options to Des Moines, IA take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA flights for today, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
American AirlinesAA3264 · AA176212:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h28
6:33 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1448 · UA178012:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h55
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1150 · UA538912:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h48
11:44 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1150 · UA54912:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h34
8:30 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA178112:59 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h28
2:27 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA1478+Republic AirlinesAA43951:14 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h37
8:51 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1859+psa airlinesAA53521:29 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h35
10:04 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2802 · UA5491:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h00
8:30 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2802 · UA53891:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h14
11:44 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2451 · UA17802:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h20
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2803 · UA53892:33 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h11
11:44 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2803 · UA5492:33 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h57
8:30 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2819+psa airlinesAA53523:29 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h35
10:04 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2754 · AA13713:49 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h09
11:58 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA714 · UA17804:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h30
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2769 · UA53894:12 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h32
11:44 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA52304:36 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h33
6:09 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA1683 · AA22414:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h21
12:06 AM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2988 · AA13714:51 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h07
11:58 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA49735:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h33
6:33 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA1954 · UA61665:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
20h25
2:10 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2917 · AA22415:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h21
12:06 AM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1559 · AA13716:19 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h39
11:58 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1475 · UA17806:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
27h55
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1475 · UA61666:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
19h30
2:10 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
envoy airAA41026:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h33
8:18 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA689 · AA22416:47 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h19
12:06 AM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA13257:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h37
9:22 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA2813 · UA17808:02 PM O'Hare International Airport
26h33
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2813 · UA61668:02 PM O'Hare International Airport
18h08
2:10 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA18399:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h31
10:56 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
Republic AirlinesAA444210:31 PM O'Hare International Airport
1h30
12:01 AM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
Friday, July 3
UnitedUA2666 · UA13115:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
11h15
4:15 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2970+psa airlinesAA51655:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h34
12:34 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2666 · UA48015:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h42
10:42 AM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2666 · UA52115:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h47
12:47 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2842 · AA17635:10 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h46
12:56 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2310 · UA17805:30 AM O'Hare International Airport
17h05
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2310 · UA61665:30 AM O'Hare International Airport
8h40
2:10 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2806 · UA52116:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h47
12:47 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2806 · UA13116:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
10h15
4:15 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1799 · UA17806:29 AM O'Hare International Airport
16h06
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1799 · UA61666:29 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h41
2:10 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1784 · AA17636:30 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h26
12:56 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2115+psa airlinesAA51656:35 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h59
12:34 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA49696:59 AM O'Hare International Airport
1h33
8:32 AM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA1217 · UA52117:05 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h42
12:47 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1217 · UA5497:05 AM O'Hare International Airport
13h25
8:30 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1217 · UA13117:05 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h10
4:15 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1231 · UA17807:35 AM O'Hare International Airport
15h00
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1231 · UA61667:35 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h35
2:10 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1555 · AA24218:30 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h30
4:00 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA526 · UA5498:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
11h50
8:30 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA526 · UA13118:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h35
4:15 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA18038:42 AM O'Hare International Airport
1h35
10:17 AM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA535 · UA17808:51 AM O'Hare International Airport
13h44
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA3052 · AA24219:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h20
4:00 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2638 · UA178010:25 AM O'Hare International Airport
12h10
10:35 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA581 · UA54910:54 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h36
8:30 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA581 · UA131110:54 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h21
4:15 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA581 · UA538910:54 AM O'Hare International Airport
12h30
11:24 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2059+Republic AirlinesAA439511:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h51
8:51 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2222 · AA176211:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h33
6:33 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer
Republic AirlinesAA467611:29 AM O'Hare International Airport
1h35
1:04 PM Des Moines International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA1743+psa airlinesAA535211:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
10h24
10:04 PM Des Moines International Airport1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA by bus or flight

Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Fri
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09

Why should you book Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA flights with Omio?

United as well as skywest airlines, Republic Airlines, American Airlines and more offer flights services from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.

Why book with Omio vs United?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for United, but also compare tickets for the likes of skywest airlines, Republic Airlines or American Airlines to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare United with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.

Why book with Omio over Kayak, Skyscanner or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of skywest airlines, Republic Airlines or American Airlines to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.

Airlines: United, skywest airlines, Republic Airlines, American Airlines from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IAFind the best flights between Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with Omio's travel partners United, skywest airlines, Republic Airlines, American Airlines from $41 (€34). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

United

About
United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 26m
Cheapest Price
$306 (€251)
United frequency
36 a day
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.

skywest airlines

About
SkyWest Airlines is a major North American regional airline headquartered in St. George, Utah. It operates flights for larger carriers such as Alaska Airlines (as Alaska SkyWest), American Airlines (as American Eagle), Delta Air Lines (as Delta Connection), and United Airlines (as United Express). SkyWest is the largest regional airline in North America by fleet size, passengers carried, and destinations served. The airline connects passengers to over 250 destinations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, primarily linking smaller airports to major airline hubs. SkyWest's fleet consists of regional jets, including the Bombardier CRJ series and Embraer 175 aircraft.
Luggage & cancellation policy
skywest airlines frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag and one personal item are allowed for free.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased, and fees apply for excess, oversized, or overweight baggage.
Cancellation Policy
If canceled within 24 hours of purchase, a full refund is possible, provided the departure is at least 7 days away; after 24 hours, fees range from $100 to $500.
Refund
If SkyWest Airlines cancels a flight, passengers are eligible for a full refund.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but specific policies may depend on the partner airline.
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-14 can travel alone using the unaccompanied minor service, which includes airport escort and supervision.
Amenities on board the airplane
Seat reservation
Toilets
Accessibility
SkyWest Airlines complies with all provisions of the Air Carrier Access Act and accommodates customers with special needs.
Bikes
Bicycles can be checked in but may incur additional fees and must be properly packed.
Pets
Small pets like cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin for a fee, with restrictions on pet and carrier size.

American Airlines

About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€62)
American Airlines frequency
13 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.

Republic Airlines

About
Republic Airways is a major regional airline in the United States, operating as a subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings. It provides scheduled passenger service for American Airlines (as American Eagle), Delta Air Lines (as Delta Connection), and United Airlines (as United Express) using a fleet of Embraer 170 and 175 regional jets. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Republic Airways operates over 900 daily flights to more than 80 cities across the U.S. and Canada. The company is known for its large fleet of Embraer E-Jets and its state-of-the-art training facilities. In April 2025, Republic Airways Holdings announced its acquisition of Mesa Air Group, which is expected to create the second-largest regional carrier in the U.S.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
$135 (€110)
Republic Airlines frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (24 x 16 x 10) and one personal item
Additional luggage
Checked bags for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Tickets are non-refundable but may be cancelled for future flight credit minus applicable fees
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to the end of their 36th week for single pregnancies and the end of their 32nd week for multiple pregnancies
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service is available for children ages 5-14. Must be booked directly with Republic Airlines
Amenities on board the airplane
USB plugs
Accessibility
Republic Airlines offers assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are advised to request these services in advance to ensure availability and proper arrangements.

Complete guide to Des Moines

Things to do in Des Moines

Discover the best of Des Moines — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Des Moines trip today.

  • Must visit

Des Moines Art Center

Major contemporary and modern art museum with a strong permanent collection, rotating exhibitions, and notable architecture by Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier.

  • Recommended

State Historical Museum of Iowa

The state history museum covers Iowa’s cultural, political, and social history through permanent and changing exhibits in the East Village area.

  • Recommended

Salisbury House & Gardens

Historic house museum inspired by English manor architecture, featuring art, rare books, and decorative collections in an atmospheric estate setting.

United States Dollar

Prices are moderate by U.S. city standards. Dining and coffee are reasonable, while upscale meals and hotels cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
USD 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 60+ per person before drinks.
Coffee
USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares. USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Tip hotel staff and delivery drivers; tipping is expected for service.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Des Moines, IA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA can start from as little as $76 (€62) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is $256 (€210) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is 1h 20m to travel the 307 miles (495 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct flights a day from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with United, skywest airlines, Republic Airlines, American Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA, you can count on United, skywest airlines, Republic Airlines, American Airlines for the best way to get you to Des Moines, IA. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Des Moines, IA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is no time difference between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA.
The best events to attend in Des Moines, IA include:
  • Iowa State Fair, a massive annual celebration featuring agricultural exhibits, live music, and delicious fair food
  • Des Moines Arts Festival, a vibrant showcase of visual arts, performances, and culinary delights held in the heart of downtown
  • World Food & Music Festival, an exciting event celebrating global cuisine and diverse musical performances from around the world.
The best holidays to experience in Des Moines, IA include:
  • Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant outdoor activities and events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and festive celebrations throughout the city
  • Labor Day, a great time for enjoying local fairs and the last summer events before fall.
The best season to visit Des Moines, IA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Des Moines, IA is during April-June or September-October.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Des Moines, IA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake ticket sellers for local events and unofficial ride services. Staying alert in busy downtown spots and using authorized transportation options helps ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular airports

Popular airports from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA

Most Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA flights use the O'Hare International Airport to Des Moines International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in Chicago
Arrival airports in Des Moines

Which Chicago, IL airport do flights to Des Moines, IA leave from?

Flights from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA depart from O'Hare International Airport. The airport is 2 miles (4 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 10000 W O'Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, USA.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD)10000 W O'Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to O'Hare International Airport from Chicago city centre

O'Hare International Airport is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

SubwayBlue Line · 1h 7m · $6 · every ~23 min

O'Hare International Airport airport facilities and services

O'Hare International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout all terminals.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at O'Hare International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at O'Hare International Airport: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at O'Hare International Airport: Elevators, ramps, toilets.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby..

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