What policies apply if I choose to drive rather than fly to my business destination?

When a traveler chooses to drive rather than to fly, reimbursement will be the lower of actual driving cost or projected flying costs. The intent of this restriction is to avoid having the university subsidize travel that is partly vacation-related.

Driving costs to be considered include round trip mileage at $.285 per mile, tolls, parking, and extra meals and hotel charges enroute. Projected flying costs may include an airline ticket quote from an authorized University Travel Agency, round trip mileage to the Des Moines airport, estimated parking at the Des Moines airport, and either shuttle transportation or car rental. Airline ticket quotes should be obtained in writing from an authorized University Travel Agency at least two weeks before departure to be assured of the lowest fare. Quotes will not be available after the trip. Travelers with questions should contact the Accounting Office before departure to avoid misunderstandings regarding reimbursement.

How much will I be reimbursed for travel from Ames to the Des Moines Airport?

Faculty and staff, when traveling on behalf of the university, can be reimbursed for mileage from the campus to the airport (84 miles round-trip), plus parking upon submission of a parking receipt. There are three parking lots at the Des Moines airport. They are short term, long term, and economy parking. An alternate lot, operated by Keck Parking, Inc., is across the street from the airport and charges a lower daily rate. Travelers should be aware that the daily rate will be reduced if ISU identification is presented. Direct shuttle service is provided from the parking lot to the terminal building. In those cases where travelers are not able to leave their personal vehicles at the airport, or where the length of the trip makes parking fees a substantial cost, reimbursement will be allowed for two round-trips from Ames to the Des Moines airport.

Can privately owned aircraft be used for business travel?

Privately owned aircraft may be used on official university business in view of the savings in fuel, time, and the elimination of overnight lodging. Reimbursement will be the lowest rate charged by the University Flight Service for a single-engine plane.

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Last Updated: February 15, 2006.