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Journey information
Overview: Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC flight
USAUSA
Flights from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC depart on average 42 times per day, taking around 3h 35m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $203 (€165) but you can travel from only $109 (€89) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:45. The fastest flight covers the 892 miles (1436 km) distance in 5h 11m. August 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 $109 (€89)
Distance 892 miles (1436 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $203 (€165) |
Flights per day 42 |
Fastest flight 5h 11m |
Cheapest month to travel August |
First flight 05:00 |
Last flight 22:45 |
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 $109 (€89)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$424
Average price
$424
Fastest journey
6 h 20 m
Average duration
6 h 20 m
Flights per day
1
Distance
1436 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC will cost around $424 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $424.
Fast flights
Of the 1 flights that leave Des Moines, IA for Washington, DC onFri, Nov 07, 1 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 1436 km distance in an average of 6 h 20 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 6 h 20 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the longest flights will take 6 h 20 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.
10:17PM6h20
Des Moines, IA04:37AMWashington, DC
$4241One-way
0 transfers
10:17PM6h20
Des Moines, IA04:37AMWashington, DC
$4241One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €89. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €89, and a flight costs an average of €165.
Distance: 892 miles (1436 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|
€219 Average price | €140 Average price Cheapest |
6h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 34h 13m Average total duration 33h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC 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.
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Airlines: United, American Airlines, Republic Airlines from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DCFind the best flights between Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC with Omio's travel partners United, American Airlines, Republic Airlines from $109 (€89). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
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
6h 20m
Cheapest Price
$333 (€272)
American Airlines frequency
31 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.
Entertaiment on board
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
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$521 (€425)
United frequency
16 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
Wifi
USB plugs
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
Entertaiment on board
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
5h 33m
Cheapest Price
$245 (€200)
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.
FAQs: Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC can start from as little as $406 (€331) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC is $453 (€370); 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 Washington, DC flight travel time is 4 h 55 min for the 890 mile (1435 km) long route, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC leaves at 10: 16PM.
There are 37 flights a day from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC which require at least one change with United. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
For the trip from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC you can take a flight with United. Be sure to check out all possible airlines that offer services from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
The cheapest month for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Washington, DC is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Washington, DC including taking a bus or flight.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Washington, DC 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.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Des Moines, IA and Washington, DC all year round.
The best events to attend in Washington, DC include:
- National Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of the blooming cherry blossom trees with parades and cultural events
- Independence Day Celebration, fireworks and festivities at the National Mall to commemorate the nation's independence
- Smithsonian Folklife Festival, a showcase of cultural traditions from around the world held on the National Mall
- DC Jazz Festival, an annual event featuring performances by renowned jazz musicians at various venues across the city.
The best holidays to experience in Washington, DC include:
- Memorial Day, marks the unofficial start of summer with parades and remembrance ceremonies
- Labor Day, a long weekend perfect for enjoying the city's parks and outdoor activities
- Thanksgiving, a time for family gatherings and exploring seasonal markets
- Winter Holidays, festive decorations and holiday spirit throughout the city.
The best seasons to visit Washington, DC are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Washington, DC is during April-June or September-November.
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.
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 Washington, DC
Des Moines
Washington
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 Washington.
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
information
The major airport for arrivals in Washington is Ronald Reagan National Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ronald Reagan National Airport for your journey to Washington from Des Moines.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 km
Car connection
George Washington Memorial Parkway, Exit 10AWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are available in all terminals, including Hudson News and Duty-Free Americas.
Parking
- Parking available in garages A, B, and C, approximately 5.7€ ($6) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering American, Italian, and fast food options; top choices include Legal Sea Foods and Five Guys.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels within walking distance, including the Crystal Gateway Marriott.
Shower
- Showers are available in some lounges; access may require a lounge pass or membership.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including the American Airlines Admirals Club and Delta Sky Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal A; contact airport police for assistance.
Car Rental
- Car rental services are available on-site, with companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.
Public transit options for Ronald Reagan National Airport
- Washington Metro, Yellow/Blue Line, Rold Reagan Washington tiol Airport Station, 5 km
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmCar connection
VA-267, Exit 9AWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops available in all concourses, main shops include Duty-Free, Hudson News, and Tech on the Go.
Parking
- Parking available in the terminal Parking Garage, approximately 5.7€ ($6) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants located in all concourses; options include fast food, cafes, and sit-down dining like Five Guys and Chipotle.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels nearby include Washington Dulles Airport Marriott within walking distance.
Shower
- Showers available in some lounges; access typically requires lounge entry fee.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including United Club and Turkish Airlines Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in the main terminal; contact via phone or email.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available on-site; companies include Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise.
Public transit options for Dulles International Airport
- Silver Line Metro, Dulles Intertiol Airport Station, 26 miles
Most popular flights from Des Moines, IA
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