Airports Near Ames
The closest airports to Ames, Iowa: IATA codes, names and distances, each with a full airport guide covering terminals, lounges and transit.
The nearest airport to Ames, Iowa is Ames Municipal Airport (AMW), about 3 mi (5 km) away — roughly 11 min by road. For long-haul flights, the main international gateway is Des Moines International Airport (DSM).
| Code | Airport | Distance | Transfer | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMW | Ames Municipal AirportAmes, United States | 3 mi / 5 km | 11 min | Regional |
| BNW | Boone Municipal AirportBoone, United States | 12 mi / 19 km | 40 min | Regional |
| EBS | Webster City Municipal AirportWebster City, United States | 30 mi / 49 km | 59 min | Regional |
| PRO | Perry Municipal AirportPerry, United States | 31 mi / 50 km | 56 min | Regional |
| DSM | Des Moines International AirportDes Moines, United States | 35 mi / 56 km | 1 hr 2 min | International |
| IFA | Iowa Falls Municipal AirportIowa Falls, United States | 35 mi / 56 km | 1 hr 2 min | Regional |
| MIW | Marshalltown Municipal AirportMarshalltown, United States | 37 mi / 59 km | 1 hr 6 min | Regional |
| EFW | Jefferson Municipal AirportJefferson, United States | 37 mi / 60 km | 1 hr 7 min | Regional |
Distances are straight-line; transfer times are road estimates. "Type" flags major/international gateways.
Which airport is best?
For the shortest transfer, Ames Municipal Airport (AMW) is the most convenient at about 3 mi out. If you're flying internationally or want the widest choice of routes, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) (35 mi) is the bigger gateway — worth the extra distance for long-haul or cheaper fares.
Getting to and from the airport
Taxis and ride-hailing serve every airport here, and the larger ones usually add a rail, metro or bus link into Ames. Allow extra time in peak traffic. For exact routes, times and fares, open the airport guide — start with AMW.
Hotels near the airport
For early departures or late arrivals, a hotel near AMW saves a stressful morning transfer.
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Other cities these airports serve
Travel tips
Compare the total door-to-door time, not just the airfare — a cheaper flight into a distant airport can cost more once you add the transfer. Check whether your airport has a direct train or metro before defaulting to a taxi, and for international arrivals, confirm any visa or transit rules in advance.
Frequently asked questions
The nearest airport to Ames is Ames Municipal Airport (AMW), about 3 mi (5 km) away — roughly 11 min by road.