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Flight Arrivals To Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Welcome to Des Moines International Airport, where over 2 million passengers arrive each year on an average of 60 daily flights. As a hub for major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, DSM offers three terminals and 22 gates to accommodate both domestic and international flights. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about arrival procedures, baggage claim areas, flight arrival statistics, and more to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival experience.

Airport Terminals

The Des Moines Airport consists of three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. Both Concourse A and C are used for domestic flights, while the Main Terminal is used for both domestic and international flights. The airport has a total of 22 gates, with 11 gates in Concourse A, 7 gates in Concourse C, and 4 gates in the Main Terminal.

Daily Arriving Flights

The Des Moines Airport receives an average of 60 daily arriving flights, with over 2 million passengers disembarking yearly. The airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Domestic flights make up the majority of arriving flights, with only a few international flights arriving each day.

Arrival Procedures for Passengers

For domestic flight arrivals, passengers will disembark the plane and proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve their luggage. For international flight arrivals, passengers will first go through customs and immigration before proceeding to baggage claim. It is important for international passengers to have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and visa if required. Customs and immigration requirements may vary depending on the passenger's country of origin and purpose of travel. The airport has several resources available to assist passengers with flight arrival procedures, including customer service representatives and informational signage throughout the airport.

Flight Arrival Statistics

DSM receives a significant number of arriving flights every year. The airport serves over 2.5 million passengers annually, with more than 100 daily flights. However, sometimes flights may experience delayed arrival due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions or technical issues. It is advisable to check the flight status before heading to the airport to avoid any inconvenience.

Baggage Claim Areas

Des Moines Airport has three baggage claim areas located in Concourse A, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. The airport provides luggage carts for passenger use, which are available near the baggage claim areas. Passengers can easily locate their baggage claim area by checking the flight information display screens located throughout the airport. In case of any lost or damaged baggage, passengers can contact the airport's baggage services for assistance.

Checking Arrival Status

Passengers and their loved ones can easily check the arrival status of a flight at DSM Airport by visiting the airport's website or using the airport's mobile app. The website and app provide real-time flight information, including arrival times, gate numbers, and baggage claim areas. For those waiting for passengers at the airport, there are several options for tracking flight status, including flight tracking apps and airline websites. It is advisable to keep track of the flight status to avoid any inconvenience and ensure a smooth arrival experience.

We hope you find this information useful for your arrival at Des Moines International Airport. It is always a good idea to check directly with your airline for arriving flight information, or at the airport information desk for the most current information. Safe travels!

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Tips, Help & Resources

The following is a list of tips to help you on your air journey arriving to Des Moines airport:

        • Waiting to pick up a passenger?  Its helpful to be able to track the flight to see where it is, when it will arrive, and the terminal (and gate) its arriving into.
        • Planning a trip to the airport and confused about all the available parking options and costs? View locations and fees for all DSM on-airport and off-airport parking.
        • Remember that a great low-cost alternative to driving and parking or taking a taxi is to use an airport shuttle service.  You can find a list of shuttle providers here that service the greater area.
        • Coming out of baggage claim with lots of checked luggage?  The airport's got your back (and saving it).  Baggage carts are located in DSM’s baggage claim near the luggage carousels.
        • Early flight?  Consider using one of the nearby hotels to Des Moines airport.  Depending on the hotel you select, you might even park there for free the duration of your trip!
        • Want to know your options to get to a local destination from the airport? Check out your public transportation options, which include buses, trains, taxis, shuttles, Des Moines rental cars and shared rides.

        Des Moines Arrivals FAQ

        If your flight is delayed, it's recommended to stay in close contact with your airline for the most current updates. Airlines typically provide updates via their official website, mobile app, or customer service lines. Additionally, you can check the Des Moines International Airport website or mobile app for real-time flight status information.
        While specific facilities for freshening up before customs are not detailed, international passengers will find restrooms available before proceeding to the customs and immigration area. For more specific services or amenities, it's best to inquire with the airport customer service.
        Special assistance for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues can be arranged in advance through your airline. Airlines coordinate with the airport to ensure that necessary services, such as wheelchair assistance or escort services through customs, are provided. It's advisable to request any special assistance at least 48 hours before your flight's arrival.
        Information about transportation options, including taxis, rideshare services, public transportation, and car rentals, can be found on the Des Moines International Airport's website or at the information desks located in the arrivals area of the Main Terminal. Signage throughout the airport also directs passengers to various ground transportation options.
        If you discover that your luggage is lost upon arrival, immediately report it to the airline you flew with. Each airline has a baggage service office or counter in the baggage claim area where you can file a report. Additionally, the airport's baggage services can assist you with general inquiries and provide further guidance.
        Generally, access to the gate areas is restricted to passengers with boarding passes. If you wish to meet someone directly as they exit their arrival gate, you may need to request a gate pass from the airline, which is subject to approval and security screening. Otherwise, the best place to meet arriving passengers is in the public areas of the terminal or at designated waiting areas.
        Yes, Des Moines International Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options. While most are located before security, there are facilities available in the public areas of the terminals where you can eat or shop while waiting for an arriving passenger. Check the airport's website or information directories on-site for specific locations and hours of operation.