Record Passenger Traffic at Des Moines International Airport
Des Moines International Airport has set a new all-time record for monthly passenger traffic in June, according to recent announcements. The airport reported 317,073 arrivals and departures during the month, marking a 6.8% increase compared to the previous record of 296,918 passengers in June 2024. This achievement highlights a continued upward trend in air travel demand.
July followed closely behind, with 313,121 travelers recorded—another 7.3% increase from the same month in 2024. Through July of this year, the airport has seen a total of 1,879,728 passengers, which is a 1.7% rise compared to the same period last year. Despite challenges in February, March, and April, the airport has maintained steady growth.
If the current pace continues, the airport could break its annual traffic record again in 2025. In 2024, the airport handled nearly 3.2 million passengers. However, this growth comes after a decline during the early years of the pandemic, when traffic dropped from 2020 to 2022 following a peak in 2019.
Airlines and Traffic Trends
Allegiant Airlines has played a significant role in the airport’s growth this year. As one of the airport’s base airlines since 2021, it has seen a 15.2% increase in traffic through July. While primarily serving leisure travelers, Allegiant ranks third in total traffic, behind American and United Airlines.
In contrast, Frontier Airlines has experienced sharp declines, with a 42.4% drop in traffic so far this year. The airline’s CEO recently stated that capacity reductions are likely to continue as the company and others face profitability challenges.
Expansion and Infrastructure Improvements
To accommodate the growing number of passengers, Des Moines International Airport is currently constructing a new terminal. With a projected cost of up to $770 million, the project is expected to add 11 new gates by 2029. The first six gates are scheduled to open in January 2027.
In addition, the airport opened a new parking garage in July, adding over 1,100 covered spaces. This brings the total garage capacity to 2,900. A new rental car facility on the south side of the airport, across from the Grey economy parking lot, is also set to open in January.
Traveler Tips and Updates
Airport spokesperson Sarah Hoodjer emphasized the importance of allowing extra time for travel as construction continues. She advised travelers to plan for at least 90 minutes between arrival and departure times.
The airport is committed to keeping passengers informed through various channels, including banners in the terminal, social media updates, and a dedicated website called Lift DSM. These efforts aim to ensure a smooth and convenient travel experience for Iowans while the expansion project progresses.
Des Moines International Airport is ranked as the 77th busiest airport in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. As it continues to grow and evolve, the airport remains a key hub for both local and regional travelers.
