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

Fri, Nov 07
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United
Sky West Airlines
American Airlines
Republic Airlines
air wisconsin
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Sky West Airlines
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Republic Airlines
air wisconsin
1,000+ travel companies
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Journey information

Overview: Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL flight

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Icon of flight

Flights from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL depart on average 21 times per day, taking around 1h 29m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $223 (€182) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by bus.

There are 3 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:40. The fastest flight covers the 307 miles (495 km) distance in 1h 23m. March 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 $43 (€35)
Distance
307 miles (495 km)
Average flight duration
1h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
$223 (€182)
Flights per day
21
Direct flights
3
Fastest flight
1h 23m
Cheapest month to travel
March
First flight
05:00
Last flight
22:40
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 $43 (€35)

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

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$232

Average price

$313

Fastest journey

1 h 23 m

Average duration

1 h 27 m

Flights per day

5

Distance

495 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL will cost around $313 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $232.

Fast flights

Of the 5 flights that leave Des Moines, IA for Chicago, IL onFri, Nov 07, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Nov 07 the direct flights cover the 495 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .

On Fri, Nov 07 the longest flights will take 1 h 34 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.

American Airlines
12:27PM1h23
Des Moines, IA
01:50PMChicago, IL
$2321One-way
0 transfers
American Airlines
10:00AM1h27
Des Moines, IA
11:27AMChicago, IL
$3291One-way
0 transfers
American Airlines
10:14PM1h30
Des Moines, IA
11:44PMChicago, IL
$3321One-way
0 transfers
American Airlines
12:32PM1h23
Des Moines, IA
01:55PMChicago, IL
$3371One-way
0 transfers
American Airlines
12:24PM1h46
Des Moines, IA
02:10PMChicago, IL
$3371One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €35, and a flight costs an average of €182.

Distance: 307 miles (495 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus

€252

Average price

€54

Average price

Cheapest

4h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 29m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 42m

Average total duration

8h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

United

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL flight times

The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL flights for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 4:43 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA21385:26 PM Des Moines International Airport
1h31
6:57 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA2809 · AA31705:30 PM Des Moines International Airport
5h47
11:17 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2809 · AA8685:30 PM Des Moines International Airport
7h22
12:52 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2809 · AA12905:30 PM Des Moines International Airport
8h12
1:42 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2809 · AA16685:30 PM Des Moines International Airport
9h16
2:46 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
republic_airlinesAA4607+envoy_airAA41026:54 PM Des Moines International Airport
6h14
1:08 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA35057:05 PM Des Moines International Airport
1h35
8:40 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA5256 · UA3777:35 PM Des Moines International Airport
10h24
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5256 · UA22587:35 PM Des Moines International Airport
9h20
4:55 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5256 · UA10237:35 PM Des Moines International Airport
5h18
12:53 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5256 · UA14117:35 PM Des Moines International Airport
7h23
2:58 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5256 · UA19237:35 PM Des Moines International Airport
6h05
1:40 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA62118:19 PM Des Moines International Airport
1h43
10:02 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA6117 · UA12938:52 PM Des Moines International Airport
9h23
6:15 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA6117 · UA3438:52 PM Des Moines International Airport
16h49
1:41 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA6117 · UA7878:52 PM Des Moines International Airport
6h25
3:17 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA6117 · UA26168:52 PM Des Moines International Airport
18h19
3:11 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA6117 · UA17528:52 PM Des Moines International Airport
8h18
5:10 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA15689:15 PM Des Moines International Airport
1h31
10:46 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA1680 · AA8969:41 PM Des Moines International Airport
7h50
5:31 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1680 · AA32379:41 PM Des Moines International Airport
6h42
4:23 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
republic_airlinesAA471110:02 PM Des Moines International Airport
1h32
11:34 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
psa_airlinesAA5629+american_airlinesAA103910:03 PM Des Moines International Airport
7h37
5:40 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1781 · UA137711:14 PM Des Moines International Airport
16h26
3:40 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1781 · UA37711:14 PM Des Moines International Airport
6h45
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1781 · UA225811:14 PM Des Moines International Airport
5h41
4:55 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA3191 · AA89611:26 PM Des Moines International Airport
6h05
5:31 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Friday, November 7
skywest_airlinesAA629212:40 AM Des Moines International Airport
1h51
2:31 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA133512:50 AM Des Moines International Airport
1h31
2:21 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlines10:00 AM Des Moines, IA
1h27
11:27 AM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
american_airlines12:24 PM Des Moines, IA
1h46
2:10 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
american_airlines12:27 PM Des Moines, IA
1h23
1:50 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
american_airlines12:32 PM Des Moines, IA
1h23
1:55 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is 42 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.

Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 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
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13

Airlines: United, Sky West Airlines, American Airlines, Republic Airlines, air wisconsin from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, ILFind the best flights between Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL with Omio's travel partners United, Sky West Airlines, American Airlines, Republic Airlines, air wisconsin from $43 (€35). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

Sky West 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
Sky West 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.
Motorbike

air wisconsin

About
Air Wisconsin Airlines is a regional airline founded in 1965 and headquartered in Greenville, Wisconsin. It has a long history of operating as a feeder carrier for major airlines, including United Express, US Airways Express, and American Eagle. Air Wisconsin operates flights throughout the Midwest and East Coast, connecting smaller cities to larger hubs. The airline is known for its focus on safety, service, and making smart business decisions in a dynamic industry. As of April 2025, Air Wisconsin is transitioning to primarily flying charter and Essential Air Service subsidized flights.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and one personal item (17 x 10 x 9 inches) are allowed for standard economy and higher fares; Basic Economy only allows one personal item. Checked bags cannot exceed 50lbs and 62 linear inches.
Additional luggage
Additional checked bags are allowed with fees: $50 for the second bag and $50 for the third bag, with overweight charges for bags between 50-75 lbs.
Cancellation Policy
A refund may be requested for an unused reservation, or portion of a reservation, by contacting the reservations center; full fare and fees will be refunded if no part of the reservation has been flown, otherwise, a partial refund can be requested before the originally scheduled departure time.
Refund
If your flight is canceled and you choose not to travel, you are entitled to a full refund.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service is mandatory for children between the ages of 5 and 15.
Amenities on board the airplane
Seat reservation
Standard seats can typically be selected at check-in at no extra cost, while preferred seating or extra legroom (Economy Plus) are available for an additional fee during booking or check-in.
Toilets
Accessibility
Bikes
Bicycles must be in a hard-sided bicycle box or container with handlebars turned sideways, and protruding pedals and accessories removed.
Pets
Only domesticated cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin, with a maximum combined weight of 20 lbs for the pet and carrier, and the carrier must fit under the seat.

United

About
United Airlines is one of the USA’s leading carriers, operating both domestic and international routes. For your next trip, you can choose from Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 34m
Cheapest Price
$297 (€242)
United frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (9 x 14 x 22 inches) and one personal item (9 x 10 x 17 inches)
Additional luggage
Checked baggage fees vary by route and fare class. Most economy tickets allow purchase of up to 2 checked bags
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets are non-refundable, other fares allow changes/cancellations with fee depending on fare type and elite status
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly through the end of their 36th week for single pregnancies, 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 4 weeks of flight
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel as unaccompanied minors with mandatory service. Ages 15-17 optional service available
Amenities on board the airplane
Accessibility
United provides assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and support for passengers with visual or hearing impairments
Pets
Small dogs and cats in cabin, service animals allowed. Pets must be in approved carriers and booked in advance

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 23m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€91)
American Airlines frequency
14 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
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 46m
Cheapest Price
$232 (€189)
Republic Airlines frequency
3 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
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.

FAQs: Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $136 (€111) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is $273 (€222); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL flight travel time is 1 h 23 min   for the 307 mile (495 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL leaves at 9: 34PM.
There are 15 flights a day from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with United, American Airlines or Republic Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
When taking a flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL, you can count on United, American Airlines or Republic Airlines for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Des Moines, IA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
The cheapest month for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is November.
You have options as you can travel from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 2 different ways: bus or flight.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
The best events to attend in Chicago, IL include:
  • Chicago Air and Water Show, an exhilarating display of military and civilian aircraft performing daring maneuvers over Lake Michigan
  • Lollapalooza, a massive music festival featuring top artists across multiple genres in Grant Park
  • Chicago Gourmet, a premier culinary event celebrating the city's vibrant food scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings.
The best holidays to experience in Chicago, IL 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 lively atmosphere with various festivals and pleasant weather.
The best seasons to visit Chicago, IL are Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Chicago, IL is during May-September.
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.

popular airports

Popular airports from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL

Des Moines
Chicago
The major airport for departures in Des Moines is Des Moines International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Des Moines International Airport for your trip from Des Moines to Chicago.
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
information

More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL

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