โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the premier aviation gateway to Iowa, serving as the primary commercial link for the state's capital and its largest metropolitan area. Managed by the Des Moines Airport Authority, the facility spans over 2,600 acres and plays a critical role in the regional economy, handling a record volume of nearly three million passengers annually. Its central location makes it an essential hub for business travelers and tourists alike, offering extensive domestic coverage through major carriers including American, Delta, and Southwest Airlines.
The current terminal infrastructure is organized into three distinct areas: the Main Terminal, Concourse A, and Concourse C. Concourse A features nine gates primarily serving Delta and United, while Concourse C houses four gates used by Allegiant Air and Frontier. The Main Terminal manages an additional 14 gates for American and Southwest, with all facilities interconnected by covered walkways and a complimentary shuttle service to ensure efficient passenger flow. Inside, travelers have access to a variety of modern amenities, including free high-speed Wi-Fi, Mamava nursing pods for families, and a diverse range of dining options from full-service restaurants to local Iowa-themed cafes.
To support the region's rapid growth, the airport has embarked on an ambitious multi-phase modernization project known as "Lift DSM." This $550 million initiative, which broke ground in 2023, aims to replace the legacy facilities with a state-of-the-art terminal complex designed by HNTB and BNIM. The new terminal, featuring a signature transparent glass facade and a distinctive wave-inspired roofline, is expected to open its first phase in January 2027. This expansion will nearly double the airport's capacity, introducing eight new security lanes, expanded baggage handling systems, and modernized gatehouses, ensuring that DSM remains a world-class regional facility for decades to come.
๐ Connection Tips
Des Moines International is Iowa's main airport and usually easy to connect through. The compact terminal uses two concourses, A and C. This layout ensures that transitions between gates are exceptionally fast, typically taking less than 10 minutes. For ground transportation to downtown Des Moines, the DART Route 8 bus provides a reliable and cost-effective connection from the arrivals level.
For those heading to Ames or Iowa State University, the 'Executive Express' shuttle offers a dedicated service that should be booked in advance. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have a well-marked pickup zone at the north end of the baggage claim curb. A critical tip for travelers is the availability of TSA PreCheck at the central security checkpoint, which rarely has a wait time exceeding 15 minutes. However, arriving at least 90 minutes early is still recommended during the early morning 'push' of regional flights.
Travelers should also be aware of the 'Lift DSM' terminal project; while construction is ongoing for the new state-of-the-art terminal (expected 2027), some temporary walkway adjustments may be in place. Within the terminal, amenities include local favorites like 'Berk & Wills' and several cafes. Because DSM handles heavy winter traffic, the airport maintains world-class snow removal operations, but always check for delays originating from hubs like Chicago or Minneapolis. Lastly, all major car rental agencies have desks conveniently located in the baggage claim area for 'one-stop' processing.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) is a modern and well-appointed regional airport serving Abilene, Texas, and the surrounding Big Country region. The airport operates from a single, compact passenger terminal designed for efficiency and ease of use. The terminal is laid out across two levels: the upper level houses airline ticket counters, a restaurant (Kountry Kitchen), a gift shop, and two departure gates equipped with Jetway boarding bridges. The lower level is dedicated to arrivals, featuring two baggage carousels and desks for several car rental agencies. Escalators provide convenient access between the two floors.
The terminal environment is designed to be traveler-friendly, offering essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi throughout the building, ensuring passengers can stay connected. The airport strives for a streamlined experience, and its compact size typically translates to minimal walking distances and efficient processing times for check-in and security. This makes ABI a convenient choice for regional travel, providing a less congested alternative to larger metropolitan hubs.
Beyond its functional aspects, ABI also offers a pleasant travel environment. The presence of on-site dining options and a gift shop provides convenience for passengers. The airport's commitment to modernization ensures that facilities are clean and well-maintained, contributing to a positive overall experience for those traveling through Abilene.
๐ Connection Tips
Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) offers several ground transportation options with varying levels of service reliability. Taxi services including A-1 Yellow Cab, Roadrunner Taxi, City Cab, and Classic Cab operate near the airport, charging $25-35 for the 10-15 minute journey to downtown Abilene - advance booking strongly recommended, particularly with Roadrunner Taxi requiring two business days notice. Uber and Lyft rideshare services provide pickup at the departure level adjacent to taxi areas, offering convenient app-based transportation with transparent pricing.
Public bus service connects the airport to central Abilene with pickup outside the terminal for under $5, making it the most budget-friendly option, though service availability should be verified as some sources indicate limited public transit access. Multiple car rental agencies (Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz) are conveniently located just outside the terminal with rates starting from $30/day plus optional damage waiver ($27. 99-29.99/day). Private shuttle services operate with advance booking, and some hotels provide complimentary airport shuttles.
Lynkup offers comprehensive statewide shuttle service and local rideshares for broader regional connectivity. The compact terminal design ensures minimal walking distances for all ground transportation options, with clear signage directing passengers to designated pickup areas. Car rental provides maximum flexibility for exploring West Texas attractions and regional destinations beyond Abilene city limits.
โ Back to Des Moines International Airport