Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is there complimentary Wi-Fi?
Unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi is offered through Boingo Wireless. Directions on how to connect are found here. 
How do I find out about employment opportunities at the Airport?
Visit Careers for both Des Moines Airport Authority and Airport tenant job opportunities.
What regulations do I need to know before flying a drone or model aircraft in the Des Moines area?
Whether you fly for fun or work, FAA Regulations prohibit flying UAS or drones within 5 miles of an airport without first contacting air traffic control or airport authorities. For more detailed information, see our drone safety page.
What are you doing about noise coming from the airport?

Des Moines Airport Noise Study

Noise FAQs
Where are the ATMs located?
There are two ATMs in the airport. One is located on the ground level of the terminal and the second one is on the concourse/gate level. Both are near the restaurants.
Are baggage carts available to rent in the terminal?
 Yes, the Des Moines Airport uses SmarteCarte. The baggage assistant carts are located in the bag claim area of the Airport. The cost is $6, with a $1 deposit that’s returned when the cart is returned. Cash and credit payment options are available.
Is there a currency exchange at the airport?
 No, there is no place at the airport to exchange currency.
How do I request wheelchair assistance to get into/around the terminal?
Wheelchair assistance is provided curbside to planeside through G2 Secure Staff. They can be reached at (515) 256-5500.   
How do I get to the airport and find my way around once I get there?
Click here for directions to the airport and the parking map.
Is there an outgoing mailbox at the airport?
There are two U.S. mail outgoing mail slots in the bank of mailboxes located in the entryway under the skywalk that goes from the terminal to the parking garage.  
How early should I arrive at the airport?
To facilitate an on-time departure, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight's departure especially if you are parking your vehicle and checking baggage. When traveling around holidays, other peak times, and/or for international travel, it is recommended you allow additional time.
What do I do if I lost something while traveling?
If you left an item on the plane, contact your airline directly. To report a lost item in the airport or parking lots, complete the Lost Item Report. If your lost item report matches a found item that was turned in to the Airport Authority office, you will be contacted via phone or email. To check on an item lost in the airport, call the Airport Authority office at (515) 256-5100.  
What time do the airline ticket counters and TSA security checkpoint open?
The airline ticket counters open at varying times depending on their earliest flight for the day. Generally most airlines open their ticket counters between 3:30 and 4 a.m. Allegiant, Frontier, and Southwest do not staff their ticket counters all day. Generally they are open 1-1/2 to 2 hours before a scheduled flight. After their flight, they close down and re-open 1-1/2 to 2 hours before their next flight. The TSA security checkpoint opens at 3:45 a.m. each day.
Is there a policy for carry-on luggage?
The size, number, and fees for carry-on luggage vary by airline. Contact the airline you are flying with for specifics.  
How do I report a safety concern?
If it is an urgent matter, contact the Airport Operations Center at (515) 256-5000. If it is not urgent, please go to safety.dsmairport.com and file a report.
Is there a USO at the airport?
While the Des Moines Airport supports the men and women of the armed forces and their families, we do not have a USO at this time. 
Do I need the REAL ID gold star on my driver license to fly?
As of May 7, 2025, commercial flyers will need a REAL ID license or identification card or another acceptable identity document like a passport, or you're going to be subject to additional screening and potential delays. 
Do you have lockers for storing items?
No, there are no lockers for storage. Unattended bags will be considered suspicious and searched by the Des Moines Police Department (DMPD). If no owner is identified, it is at the discretion of the responding officer to take it to DMPD, the Airport Authority office, or discard it. The airport is not responsible for any unattended items.
Am I able to travel with an expired passport?
A valid passport that has not expired is required for all travel outside of the country regardless of the purpose of your trip. Visit travel.state.gov for more information or call the State Department at (877) 487-2778. Please be aware that the country you are traveling to may require additional documentation. 
Do you provide educational tours of the airport?
The operations team offers public tours, however they are suspended until July of 2025. A link will be provided once tours are reinstated.
Is there a pet relief area?

Pet relief areas are located outside the terminal. There is a designated area for pets and service animals to relieve themselves outside of the terminal by the parking garage (north of the skywalk). The small fenced area is complete with a fake fire hydrant.

Pets are required to be in a carrier while in the Des Moines International Airport. Passengers should contact their airline for specific policies and fares for transporting pets in cargo or for traveling with a pet or service animal. Passengers should contact TSA for information on security screening for a pet or service animal. 
Are Pets allowed in the Airport?
Service animals are allowed in the terminal. If a passenger is traveling with a pet, all pets are required to be in a carrier while in the Des Moines International Airport.  Contact your airline for guidelines on traveling on the aircraft with a pet.