List of airports in Iowa
Introduction
Iowa may be known for its rolling farmland and vibrant city life, but the state’s airports are a vital part of its transportation network. From major hubs that connect the Midwest to global destinations to tiny general‑aviation strips dotted across the landscape, Iowa’s airfields cater to business travelers, cargo operators, and aviation enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re planning a flight, researching aviation history, or simply curious about the airports that serve this state, this post offers a complete, SEO‑optimized guide to the list of airports in Iowa.
Why Iowa Airports Matter
- Economic Driver – Airports support jobs, encourage tourism, and attract investment.
- Connectivity Hub – Iowa’s strategic location ties the Midwest to the rest of the United States and beyond.
- General Aviation Network – With over 90 public airports, Iowa is a premier destination for flight training, agricultural operations, and recreational flying.
Categories of Iowa Airports
- Commercial International Airports – Facilities serving scheduled airline services.
- Regional Airports – Smaller commercial airports with limited airline service.
- General Aviation Airports – Primary stops for private pilots, flight schools, and charter operations.
- Military & Defense Airports – Bases used by the Air Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard.
Major Airports in Iowa
| Airport | City (Nearby) | IATA | FAA Code | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines International Airport | Des Moines | DSM | DSM | Commercial International |
| Quad City International Airport | Moline, IL / Iowa Falls, IA | QMJ | QMJ | Commercial Regional |
| Sioux City Regional Airport | Sioux City | SUX | SUX | Commercial Regional |
| Cedar Rapids International Airport | Cedar Rapids | CDA | CDA | Commercial International |
| Ames Municipal Airport | Ames | AUS | AUS | General Aviation / Education |
| Ottumwa Municipal Airport | Ottumwa | OTM | OTM | General Aviation |
| Keokuk Memorial Airport | Keokuk | KEK | KEK | General Aviation |
| Chariton Municipal Airport | Chariton | CDE | CDE | General Aviation |
| Dubuque Municipal Airport | Dubuque | DUB | DUB | General Aviation |
| Mason City Municipal Airport | Mason City | JNK | JNK | General Aviation |
| Clinton Municipal Airport | Clinton | CLW | CLW | General Aviation |
| Waterloo Municipal Airport | Waterloo | WAH | WAH | General Aviation |
| Manchester Municipal Airport | Manchester | MRC | MRC | General Aviation |
| Pella Municipal Airport | Pella | PEL | PEL | General Aviation |
| Emmetsburg Municipal Airport | Emmetsburg | EEJ | EEJ | General Aviation |
Note: The table above highlights key public airports. Some private and very small airstrips are omitted for brevity.
Finding the Right Airport for Your Needs
- Commercial Flights – Use Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, or Sioux City for airline service.
- Flight Training – Ames, Cedar Rapids, and Sioux City offer robust flight schools.
- Cargo Transport – Iowa’s larger airports support freight carriers; contact the airport’s cargo office for details.
- Air Ambulance & Medical Flights – Many general‑aviation fields host medical transport services.
The FAA’s Airport/Facility Directory, AirNav.com, and the official state aviation website are excellent resources for up‑to‑date information on runway specifications, instrument approach procedures, and services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa Airports
What is the main commercial airport in Iowa?
The main commercial gateway is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), handling most scheduled airlines.
Are there any airports in Iowa that handle international flights?
Yes, both Des Moines and Cedar Rapids occasionally receive international charters, but no airport has regular nonstop international service.
How many airports are there in Iowa?
Iowa hosts over 90 public airports, including commercial, general‑aviation, and military facilities.
Can I fly privately to Iowa without a scheduled airline?
Absolutely! With more than 90 general‑aviation airports, pilots have many options for landing, taking off, or simply practicing flying.
- Where can I find detailed maps and runway data for Iowa airports?
The FAA’s Airport/Facility Directory and AirNav.com provide comprehensive charts, navigation aids, and airport diagrams.
Resources
- FAA Airport/Facility Directory – Official runway and navigation data.
- AirNav.com – Airport charts, traffic information, and aeronautical resources.
- Iowa Department of Transportation – Aviation Division – State‑level aviation policies and airport statistics.
- Airports Council International (ACI) – U.S. Membership – National association for airports.
- iFlight.com – Flight Training in Iowa – Directory of flight schools across the state.
By exploring this guide, you’ll have a clear picture of Iowa’s aviation landscape, the key airports to know, and plenty of resources to dive deeper. Whether you’re planning a business trip, flying for pleasure, or simply expanding your aviation knowledge, the list of airports in Iowa is now at your fingertips.
