Des Moines International Airport saw a 2.4% increase in passengers in 2025 with more than 3.25 million travelers, a new record for the facility, which also saw continued progress on its new terminal and other improvement projects.

It was the third straight year that the airport has topped three million passengers, a news release said.

“2025 demonstrated what’s possible when strategic investment, strong partnerships, and an

exceptional team comes together,” said Brian Mulcahy, CEO of the Des Moines Airport Authority, in the release. “Our growth reflects steady, sustainable demand, not a single spike, which positions DSM well for the future.”

According to the release, the record-setting year was achieved despite significant weather-related flight cancellations in November and December.

Airport officials also touted the addition of six new routes in 2025, bringing to 35 the number of nonstop destinations served from Des Moines. That’s another record that officials said creates a level of connectivity comparable to Midwest airports twice its size.

Among the improvements seen in 2025 were the opening of a new parking garage, which increased parking capacity by 63%, and continued construction on the new terminal.

The airport also launched EZ pickup, a new curbside program that eased congestion at the terminal curb, and completed four new de-icing pads, which is enhancing operations during the cold and severe winter weather.

The airport also unveiled a new logo, brand and website in 2025 to better align with its vision and ongoing transformation. It also transitioned its top leadership, with Kevin Foley’s retirement and Mulcahy becoming CEO.

Mulcahy credited airport employees, airline partners and community support for the airport’s success in 2025.

“2025 has set the foundation for what’s ahead at DSM,” he said in the release.