Aéroport de Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni (IWK)

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni (IATA: IWK / ICAO: RJOI) is a unique military and public airport located in Iwakuni, a city in the Yamaguchi Prefecture of Japan. This dual-use airport's origins date back to World War II when it was originally established by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1940. Following the war, it was taken over by the United States Marine Corps and has since evolved into a vital facility for both military and limited civil aviation activities.

Strategically positioned 30 miles southwest of Hiroshima, MCAS Iwakuni has grown in importance over the decades. It supports a variety of military operations and hosts several tenant units, including the Fleet Air Wing One of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. In addition to its military role, the air station accommodates commercial airline services, offering both domestic and international flights.

The civil aviation segment at Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport, which operates alongside the military base, has seen a commendable increase in passenger traffic. As of recent statistics, the airport handles over half a million passengers annually, supported by airlines such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Fuji Dream Airlines. The air station's runways are capable of handling a significant volume of air traffic, with hundreds of flights operating each month.

MCAS Iwakuni stands as a testament to the cooperative nature of US-Japanese defense relationships, while also serving as a gateway for travelers exploring the scenic regions of Yamaguchi Prefecture. It remarkably blends its military significance with its public utility, showcasing a robust operational capability in both sectors.