Southwest Airlines Launches Daily Nonstop Flights Connecting Des Moines with Nashville and Expands Phoenix Services Starting March Two Thousand Twenty Seven

Southwest Airlines is expanding its regional route network, launching daily nonstop flights between Des Moines, Iowa, and Nashville, Tennessee. The new daily service, scheduled to begin in March 2027, will operate alongside expanded flights to Phoenix, Arizona.

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The Core Transit Update

Network planning updates from Southwest Airlines indicate that the carrier will introduce daily nonstop flights connecting Des Moines International Airport (DSM) with Nashville International Airport (BNA) starting in March 2027. This new direct service will operate alongside existing flights on the route managed by Allegiant Air, providing passengers with additional travel choices and schedule flexibility.

In addition to the new Nashville service, the carrier is expanding its flights between Des Moines and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Beginning in March 2027, the seasonal nonstop service will transition to a daily schedule. The airline will also maintain its daily nonstop flights between Des Moines and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), which remains a key transit link for passengers connecting to destinations across the Midwest and East Coast.

The route updates are planned to follow the opening of Des Moines International Airport’s new passenger terminal in January 2027. The terminal expansion is designed to increase passenger capacity, modernize boarding facilities, and support future route developments.

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Domestic Route Specifications and Schedules

The expanded schedule is designed to support year-round corporate travel and seasonal tourism between the Midwest and southern destinations. The table below outlines the route parameters for the carrier's expanded Des Moines network:

Flight Origin (Code)	Flight Destination (Code)	Launch Date	Operational Frequency	Route Type / Status
Des Moines (DSM)	Nashville (BNA)	March 2027	Daily	New Nonstop Service, Business & Leisure
Des Moines (DSM)	Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)	March 2027	Daily	Expanded Seasonal Service (Daily)
Des Moines (DSM)	Chicago Midway (MDW)	Year-Round	Daily	Existing Daily Service
Des Moines (DSM)	Nashville (BNA)	Year-Round	Multiple Weekly	Competitive Route (Allegiant Air)

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Traveler Logistics Guide (Information Gain)

For passengers planning to utilize the new services for business or leisure travel, the following logistics advice will support a smoother trip:

• New Terminal Operations at DSM: The new passenger terminal at DSM is scheduled to open in January 2027. Travelers flying after this date should allow extra time to navigate the new gate layouts, check-in desks, and security screening areas.
• Southwest Booking Policy: Southwest Airlines does not list its flights on third-party comparison websites. Bookings must be made directly through the airline's website or mobile application.
• Baggage Allowances: The carrier offers two complimentary checked bags up to 50 lbs (22 kg) each for all passengers. Carry-on baggage is restricted to one small personal item that fits under the seat and one bag that fits in the overhead bin.
• Connection Timing at Hubs: If you are connecting through Chicago Midway (MDW) or Phoenix (PHX) to onward flights, allow a minimum layover of 60 minutes. Although baggage is transferred automatically between Southwest flights, terminal gate changes can require walking between concourses.
• DSM Access and Parking: Des Moines International Airport is located on Fleur Drive, approximately five miles south of downtown Des Moines. Travelers should arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights to allow time for bag drop and security screening.

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Infrastructure and Regional Impact Assessment

The expansion of the domestic flight network is expected to support economic development in central Iowa. Increased air connectivity between regional markets makes the area more attractive for corporate operations, business events, and tourism.

The Des Moines terminal project represents a major investment in regional transport infrastructure, providing the gates and check-in capacity required to accommodate larger aircraft and increased flight frequencies. By adding daily connections to Nashville and Phoenix, the airport improves passenger flow and strengthens its position as a regional transit hub, offering Iowans direct access to major economic and leisure destinations.

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