Gogebic Iron County Airport (IWD)

Gogebic-Iron County Airport (IWD) is a public-use airport serving Ironwood, Michigan, and the surrounding Gogebic Range region of the Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin. As a primary commercial service airport for this rural area, it provides a crucial link for residents, business travelers, and tourists, particularly those visiting for the area's prominent ski resorts and outdoor recreation. The airport's operations are essential for connecting the community to the national air transportation network.

Opened to the public in 1948, the airport was established to accommodate modern, larger aircraft and replace a smaller, pre-war airfield. Throughout its history, Gogebic-Iron County Airport has been a key beneficiary of the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which subsidizes commercial flights to ensure continued connectivity for smaller communities. This support has enabled various commuter airlines to serve the airport over the decades, adapting to the changing aviation landscape while maintaining a consistent air link for the region.

The airport is located approximately six miles northeast of downtown Ironwood, with direct access from US Highway 2, the main east-west thoroughfare in the area. Travelers typically reach the facility by private vehicle, taxi, or rental car. Its position makes it an accessible gateway for visitors heading to destinations across the Gogebic Range.

Scheduled passenger service is exclusively domestic and is provided by the current EAS-contracted carrier, Denver Air Connection. Flights operate to major hubs, typically Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), allowing for connections to destinations worldwide. In addition to commercial flights, the airport also supports a significant amount of general aviation traffic, including private and charter aircraft.

The facility features a single, compact passenger terminal designed for efficiency. Amenities are basic and functional, reflecting the airport's size. Inside, travelers will find airline check-in counters, a passenger waiting area, restrooms, and on-site counters for rental car agencies. There are no airport lounges, full-service restaurants, or extensive retail shops within the terminal.

For those traveling through IWD, arriving 60 to 90 minutes prior to departure is generally sufficient for check-in and security screening. Due to the airport's rural location, it is highly recommended to pre-book a rental car, as ride-sharing services and public transportation options are limited or unavailable. Passengers should also factor in ample connection times at their destination hub, as all flights from IWD require a transfer to reach most final destinations.