Southwest to Launch Des Moines to Nashville Flights

The new non-stop service from Des Moines International Airport is set to begin on January 6, 2027.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Air Travel

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring a passenger jet taking off over stylized fields, representing new airline route connectivity. — Southwest Airlines will launch new non-stop service between Des Moines and Nashville on January 6, 2027, timed with the airport's terminal expansion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Southwest Airlines will start non-stop service between Des Moines and Nashville on January 6, 2027. The airline is launching the route two months earlier than originally planned.

Why it matters

The route expansion coincides with the scheduled opening of a new terminal at Des Moines International Airport. This development aims to enhance connectivity for local residents starting in early 2027.

The new non-stop route between Des Moines and Nashville is set to debut 2 months ahead of its original schedule. Southwest Airlines also plans to add a separate direct flight from Des Moines to Orlando in June 2027.

The players

Southwest Airlines

A major American airline that provides scheduled air service throughout the United States and several nearby international destinations.

Des Moines International Airport

The primary commercial airport serving the Des Moines metropolitan area and the surrounding central Iowa region.

The details

Des Moines International Airport confirmed the new flight path through social media announcements. The service expansion is timed to integrate with the opening of the airport's new terminal facility in January 2027.

January 6, 2027: Southwest Airlines begins non-stop Des Moines to Nashville flights.
January 2027: The new terminal at Des Moines International Airport opens to the public.
June 2027: Southwest Airlines will add a direct flight from Des Moines to Orlando.

Travel Outlook

This route expansion is part of a larger effort to modernize operations at the Des Moines International Airport terminal expansion project. The airline is aligning its service growth with the facility's increased capacity to handle higher passenger volumes.

Local travelers can anticipate new direct connectivity to Nashville and Orlando beginning in 2027 as the airport facility upgrades. Passengers should check for updated flight schedules as the new terminal opening date approaches.

The takeaway

Travelers planning trips for early 2027 should monitor these new route launches to take advantage of non-stop travel options from Des Moines. These additions reflect the airport's ongoing growth and shift toward expanded national connectivity.