DSM (Des Moines) to DCA (Washington) flights arrive on time 77% of the time. The most reliable airline on this route is null at 85%. The average delay is 79 minutes. Delays on this route are most often caused by the incoming plane arriving late.
Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Updated March 2026.DSM → DCA
DSM (Des Moines) to DCA (Washington)
DSM → DCA on-time performance by month
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JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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This route is on time most of the time. About 77% of flights arrive on schedule.
Delays on this route are most often caused by the incoming plane arriving late.
Accurate?
null edges out Republic Airways on this route — 85% vs 74% on time.
Airline Comparison
leads at 85% on time; Republic Airways trails at 74%.
Accurate?
Good to know
Departing from DSM
81% on timeExpect ~17 min sitting on the taxiway after your gate pushes back. DSM has long runway queues.
TSA is currently ~5 min. Best time: 4 AM (about 5 min).
Arriving at DCA
79% on timeWhen flights into DCA are late, the average delay is 74 minutes. Build buffer if you have ground plans.
If connecting at DCA: TSA is ~5 min right now. Allow at least 60 minutes for a domestic connection.
DCA has a 2.6% cancellation rate — keep the airline app handy for rebooking.
Flight cancelled or delayed?
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Data last updated March 2026. Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics.