Qeshm Dayrestan International Airport (GSM)

Qeshm Dayrestan International Airport (IATA: GSM, ICAO: OIKQ) serves as the primary aerial gateway to Qeshm Island, Iran's largest island and a significant free-trade zone in the Persian Gulf. The airport plays a crucial role in supporting the island's thriving tourism industry, renowned for its unique geological formations and ecological attractions, as well as facilitating business and trade activities within the Qeshm Free Zone. Its operations connect this strategic island to major domestic cities and select international destinations.

Originally opened in 1970 as a domestic airfield, the airport was granted international status in 1997 to accommodate the growing economic importance of the Qeshm Free Zone. This upgrade was pivotal in transforming the island into a more accessible destination for both international tourists and business investors. The airport is situated in the village of Dayrestan, located in the central part of the island. It is approximately 55 kilometers west of Qeshm City, the island's main urban center. Travelers typically reach their final destinations via taxi, which is the most readily available form of transport from the terminal. The journey to Qeshm City by car usually takes around 50 minutes.

The airport handles a mix of scheduled domestic and international flights. Major Iranian carriers such as Qeshm Air, Iran Air, Mahan Air, and Kish Air operate regular flights connecting the island to key mainland cities including Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, and Isfahan. International services are more limited but provide vital links to nearby hubs, with airlines like flydubai offering direct flights to Dubai. While it is a smaller airport, it manages a steady flow of passenger traffic driven by tourism and commerce.

Facilities at Qeshm Dayrestan International Airport are functional and tailored to its size. The single terminal building houses check-in counters, a departure lounge, and baggage claim services. Amenities for passengers include a small cafe, snack bars, and several shops offering local handicrafts, souvenirs, and travel essentials. For those seeking enhanced services, a CIP (Commercial Important Person) lounge is available, providing a more comfortable waiting area.

For travelers, it is advisable to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before a domestic departure and 2 to 3 hours for an international flight. Given the airport's distance from major hotels and attractions, planning ground transportation in advance is recommended; confirm taxi fares before beginning your journey. As Qeshm Airport is an origin and destination facility rather than a connecting hub, passengers should not expect extensive transit amenities.