Southwest Will Launch Des Moines to Orlando Flight
The new nonstop summer service will connect Iowa travelers to Orlando starting in June 2027.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Air Travel
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Southwest Airlines will introduce a new nonstop Saturday flight between Des Moines International Airport and Orlando International Airport beginning in June 2027. This service will run exclusively throughout the summer schedule to accommodate demand for one of the top destinations for central Iowa travelers.
Why it matters
Orlando is currently a top 10 destination for residents in the Des Moines area, driving significant travel volume between the two regions. By entering this route, Southwest Airlines provides a new option alongside the existing nonstop service currently offered by Frontier Airlines.
In 2025, an average of 106 passengers traveled daily each way between Central Iowa and Orlando. This represents significant demand for a destination that currently ranks among the top 10 for Des Moines-based travelers.
The players
Southwest Airlines
This is a major American airline known for its low-cost model and extensive domestic flight network.
Frontier Airlines
This airline currently maintains the existing nonstop service between Des Moines and Orlando International Airport.
Allegiant Air
This carrier offers service from Des Moines to the Orlando Sanford International Airport.
Des Moines International Airport
This facility is the primary aviation hub for central Iowa and is currently preparing for a new terminal opening.
The details
The new service is part of the airline's expanded summer schedule and will operate on Saturdays only. This route will serve Orlando International Airport, providing an alternative to the service currently provided by Allegiant Air to Orlando Sanford International Airport.
Timeline
In 2025, 106 passengers traveled daily between Central Iowa and Orlando.
In March 2026, Southwest launched daily nonstop service to Nashville.
In January 2027, the new terminal at Des Moines International Airport will open.
In June 2027, Southwest will begin the new nonstop flight to Orlando.
Travel Outlook
The flight expansion follows the timeline of the Des Moines International Airport terminal expansion project, which is designed to increase capacity for regional travelers. This addition reflects a broader trend of airlines timing route growth to coincide with modernized infrastructure and airport upgrades.
Travelers looking to book summer vacations should compare the new Southwest nonstop option against current offerings from Frontier and Allegiant Air to find the best fare. Booking early remains essential for peak summer travel dates between central Iowa and Florida.
The takeaway
Adding nonstop routes to high-traffic destinations like Orlando simplifies vacation planning for Iowa residents. Travelers should remain flexible with their airline choices to take advantage of the increased competition on this route.
What happens next
The new terminal at Des Moines International Airport is scheduled to open in January 2027, followed by the start of the new Southwest flight service in June 2027.
Further reading
For more updates on regional flight developments, visit the Air Travel section.
More information
To view current schedules or book upcoming travel, visit the Southwest flight booking portal.
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