Delta Air Lines Plane Veers Off Runway, Shutting Down Des Moines Airport and Throwing Thanksgiving Travel Into Complete Mayhem

Published on December 1, 2025

On the evening of November 29, 2025, a surprising and unsettling event shook the heart of Iowa as Des Moines International Airport (DSM) was forced to close its operations following a Delta Air Lines runway incident. A Delta Air Lines Connection Flight 5087, which was arriving from Detroit, slid off the runway during landing amid heavy snow and strong winds as part of a massive winter storm sweeping through the Midwest. This incident caused a significant disruption during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, Thanksgiving, highlighting the unpredictable nature of winter travel and the challenges airports face in ensuring both passenger safety and operational continuity.

The Incident and Immediate Consequences

Des Moines International Airport’s abrupt shutdown impacted countless passengers and disrupted flight schedules throughout the night and into the next day. The Delta aircraft, a key player in this incident, managed to avoid further damage despite veering off the runway, coming to a halt on the pavement. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all passengers were safely deplaned and transported to the terminal via buses.

The airport’s immediate response to this crisis was swift, as emergency crews were on site almost instantly. However, the shutdown had far-reaching effects, as all remaining Saturday flights were canceled. The region braced for further disruptions with forecasts predicting up to a foot of snow. This caused widespread chaos as travelers struggled to secure rebookings, adding to the frustration caused by already crowded travel corridors due to the Thanksgiving holiday rush.

Snowstorm Conditions and Winter Travel Challenges

The winter storm that contributed to this incident was not an isolated weather pattern. The National Weather Service had already issued warnings predicting 6-12 inches of snow, with some areas possibly experiencing up to a foot of snow. Combined with gusty winds, this storm led to low visibility and hazardous conditions both on the runway and along surrounding roadways, making it dangerous for air traffic and road travelers alike.

The Des Moines International Airport, which is usually equipped to handle typical winter conditions, found itself at the mercy of the extreme weather. Once the aircraft was cleared, it was announced that airport operations would be halted until further evaluations could be made. Although no immediate injuries were reported, travelers were urged to stay weather-aware as the situation continued to develop, and the runway was assessed for potential hazards.

Reopening and Impact on Travelers

By the following morning, Des Moines International Airport resumed normal operations, with the airfield reopening around 11:30 AM on Sunday, November 30, 2025. However, the damage had already been done. The backlog of canceled flights meant that many early-morning departures were already canceled, and other flights continued to experience delays as the airport worked through the consequences of the shutdown.

As the airport returned to normal operations, officials cautioned that there would still be some lingering delays throughout the day as airlines scrambled to accommodate travelers. The ongoing winter weather further complicated matters, with winds and reduced visibility continuing to cause disruptions, especially for regional flights. Many travelers found themselves stranded or faced with difficult rebooking situations, with limited availability due to the holiday weekend.

What Travelers Should Know for Future Winter Travel

This incident at Des Moines International Airport serves as an important reminder for both travelers and airport authorities of the vulnerabilities posed by winter storms. Here are several key takeaways that could help travelers plan more effectively during the winter months:

• Be prepared for potential disruptions: Winter weather can affect airports across the Midwest, even those accustomed to handling cold conditions. Always check your flight status and airport advisories ahead of time.
• Expect delays during peak travel periods: Thanksgiving and Christmas are high-volume travel times when winter storms are most likely to cause disruptions. Plan extra time for travel.
• Know your rights: If you are delayed or your flight is canceled, airlines are required to offer accommodations or rebooking options. Make sure to inquire about your options for compensation or rescheduling.
• Stay weather-aware: Make sure to stay updated on weather conditions through the National Weather Service or the airport’s website, especially if you are traveling through areas with known winter weather issues.

Conclusion: The Impact of Winter Weather on Des Moines and Beyond

While the runway incident at Des Moines International Airport was resolved without injuries, it underscores the importance of preparing for winter travel. Airports, airlines, and travelers must remain vigilant and flexible as winter storms can create unpredictable and dangerous conditions. The shutdown of Des Moines Airport was a direct result of these challenges, but it also provided an opportunity for the aviation community to refine and improve procedures for managing extreme weather events.

As the holiday season continues, airports across the Midwest will likely face similar challenges, but travelers can reduce their chances of disruption by staying informed and prepared for anything the winter weather may throw their way.