Travel Information

Having a pleasant flight begins before you arrive at the airport.  Be better prepared for your flight by knowing what to expect.  Before you pack, check out the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policies, procedures, and guidelines for air travel. Identification requirements can be found here.    

Your airline is the best source of information about luggage sizes and restrictions, check-in procedures, scheduled arrival and departure times, destinations, fees, and ticket prices. For airline contact information, visit our Airlines page

DSM offers ample parking for travelers.  Visit the parking page for real-time parking availability, the shuttle tracker, and a parking cost estimator giving you all the information you need to have a fun and safe travel journey. 

Travel Tips

  1. Download the airline app.  Download the airline mobile app to use for easy check-in; plus, airlines use their app to send flight notifications to update their passengers.  Many airlines allow you to rebook directly through the app if your flight is canceled.
  2. Pack Smart.  If you have your boarding pass on your phone and you are traveling with a carry-on suitcase you can save time and bypass the need to stop at the ticket counter or kiosk.  Be sure to follow all TSA carry-on luggage rules, including the liquids and gels rule of 3-1-1.  If you opt to check a suitcase, arrive at least 90 minutes before your departure and verify airline ticket counter hours to ensure you can check your bag. 
  3. Arrive Early.  All passengers should plan to be at the airport at least 90 minutes before their scheduled departure.  This will give you time to park, check-in, and process through security.
  4. Enroll in TSA PreCheck™ or Customs & Border Protection's Global Entry Program.  These trusted traveler programs accelerate the TSA screening lanes getting you to your gate faster.  Learn more here