About Kish Air
Kish Air is an Iranian airline headquartered on Kish Island in the Persian Gulf. Operating under IATA code Y9 and ICAO code IRK, the airline was established on 16 December 1989 and commenced operations in 1990. Kish Air holds the distinction of being the first private airline in Iran to receive its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Organization of Iran, which was granted in 1991.
The airline is primarily owned by the Kish Free Zone Organization, which holds a 79% stake. Kish Air operates scheduled domestic and international passenger services, charter flights, and cargo operations from its dual hubs at Tehran Mehrabad International Airport and Kish International Airport. The carrier connects major Iranian cities with regional international destinations across the Middle East and Central Asia.
Airline Overview and History
Kish Air has played an important role in Iranian aviation since its founding in the late 1980s. Below are some key milestones in the airline's history:
- 1989: Kish Air was founded on 16 December 1989 as a private airline based on Kish Island, Iran.
- 1990: The airline commenced commercial flight operations, initially serving domestic routes linking Kish Island with Tehran and other major Iranian cities.
- 1991: Kish Air became the first private airline in Iran to receive its Air Operator Certificate from the Civil Aviation Organization of Iran, marking a milestone in Iranian private aviation.
- 1990s: The airline expanded its route network to include international destinations in the Persian Gulf region, including Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.
- 2000s: Kish Air continued to grow its domestic network, connecting more Iranian cities and adding routes to Damascus in Syria and Istanbul in Turkey.
- 2024: The airline acquired an additional MD-82 aircraft from Kam Air of Afghanistan, strengthening its fleet capacity.
- 2025: Kish Air launched new scheduled services to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, expanding its Central Asian footprint.
Today, Kish Air remains one of Iran's established private carriers, operating from its twin hubs at Tehran Mehrabad International Airport and Kish International Airport. The airline's mission centres on providing reliable and affordable air travel connecting Iran's major cities and popular destinations with key regional hubs in the Middle East and beyond.
Fleet and Aircraft
Kish Air operates a fleet of nine aircraft comprising a mix of narrow-body jets suited for domestic and short-haul regional routes. The fleet includes the following aircraft types:
- McDonnell Douglas MD-82: Four aircraft in service. These twin-engine, single-aisle jets are the backbone of Kish Air's fleet, typically configured with around 155 to 172 seats in an all-economy layout.
- McDonnell Douglas MD-83: Two aircraft in service. Similar to the MD-82 but with improved range, these jets support the airline's longer domestic and international routes.
- Airbus A320-200: One aircraft in service. This modern narrow-body jet offers improved fuel efficiency and a comfortable cabin for approximately 150 to 180 passengers.
- Airbus A321-200: One aircraft in service. The larger Airbus variant provides additional seating capacity for high-demand routes, accommodating up to 220 passengers.
- Fokker 100: One aircraft in service. This regional jet is well-suited for shorter domestic routes with a capacity of approximately 100 passengers.
The airline maintains its aircraft in compliance with Iranian civil aviation safety standards. While the fleet has an average age of approximately 30 years, Kish Air continues to uphold rigorous maintenance schedules to ensure safe and dependable operations across its network.
Top Flight Routes
Kish Air serves a network of domestic and international routes, connecting Iranian cities with regional destinations in the Middle East and Central Asia. Here are some of the airline's key routes:
Domestic Routes
- Kish Island to Tehran (Mehrabad): One of the airline's most popular routes, linking the resort island with Iran's capital. Flights operate frequently throughout the week.
- Tehran to Mashhad: Connecting the capital with Iran's second-largest city and a major pilgrimage destination, home to the Imam Reza shrine.
- Tehran to Shiraz: A popular route for travellers visiting the cultural capital of Iran, known for its historical sites including Persepolis.
- Tehran to Isfahan: Linking Tehran with one of Iran's most beautiful cities, famous for its stunning Islamic architecture and Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
- Tehran to Tabriz: Serving the northwest of Iran, connecting with the historic city known for its bazaar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tehran to Bandar Abbas: Connecting the capital with the major port city on the Strait of Hormuz in southern Iran.
International Routes
- Kish Island / Tehran to Dubai: A key international route connecting Iran with the UAE business hub. If you are looking for connecting flights via Dubai, you can also explore Kuala Lumpur to Dubai flights on Traveloka.
- Tehran to Sharjah: Serving the Iranian community in the UAE with regular scheduled services to Sharjah International Airport.
- Tehran to Abu Dhabi: Connecting Iran's capital with the UAE capital for business and leisure travellers.
- Tehran to Istanbul: A popular route linking Iran with Turkey, catering to both business travellers and tourists.
- Tehran to Damascus: Serving the route between Iran and Syria, primarily used for pilgrimage and business travel.
- Tehran to Dushanbe: A newer route launched in 2025, connecting Iran with the capital of Tajikistan in Central Asia.
For Malaysian travellers, connecting flights through Dubai or other Middle Eastern hubs can link you to Kish Air's network. Traveloka also offers a wide selection of flights from Malaysia to popular destinations such as Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah, and Kuala Lumpur to Doha.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Kish Air provides baggage allowances that vary depending on your fare class and route. Below is a summary of the airline's standard baggage policy:
Cabin Baggage
- Weight: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs) per piece.
- Dimensions: Maximum 55 x 35 x 25 cm.
- Quantity: One piece for Economy Class passengers. Business Class passengers may carry up to two pieces of cabin baggage.
- Personal item: Passengers may also bring one personal item such as a laptop bag, handbag, or small backpack in addition to their cabin baggage.
Checked Baggage
- Economy Class: One piece of checked baggage up to 23 kg (50 lbs). Maximum linear dimensions of 158 cm (length + width + height).
- Business Class: Up to three pieces of checked baggage, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs).
Excess Baggage
Baggage exceeding the free allowance is subject to excess baggage fees charged per kilogramme. Rates may vary depending on the route and can be paid at the airport check-in counter. It is advisable to contact Kish Air directly or check at the counter for the most current excess baggage rates for your specific route.
Prohibited Items
- Flammable liquids and gases
- Explosives and fireworks
- Sharp objects and weapons
- Corrosive or toxic substances
- Lithium batteries exceeding airline limits
Always check with Kish Air for the latest prohibited items list before your journey, as regulations may differ for domestic and international flights.
Check-in Guide
Kish Air currently offers airport counter check-in only. Online check-in is not available. Below are the guidelines for checking in for your Kish Air flight:
Airport Counter Check-in
- Domestic flights: Check-in counters typically open 2 hours before departure and close 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- International flights: Passengers are advised to arrive at least 3 hours before departure to allow time for immigration, security checks, and boarding procedures.
- Documents required: Valid identification (national ID for domestic flights, passport for international flights), printed or electronic booking confirmation, and any relevant visa documents.
Boarding
Boarding typically begins 30 to 40 minutes before departure. Passengers should proceed to the departure gate promptly after check-in and security screening to avoid delays. Keep your boarding pass and identification readily accessible throughout the process.
You can track your Kish Air flight departure and arrival times using the Traveloka Flight Status page for real-time updates.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Kish Air primarily operates an Economy Class cabin on most of its domestic and international flights. On select routes, a Business Class option may be available depending on the aircraft and demand.
Economy Class
- Seating: Standard Economy Class seating with a 3-3 or 2-3 configuration depending on the aircraft type. The Airbus A320 and A321 typically feature a 3-3 layout, while the Fokker 100 offers a 2-3 arrangement.
- Seat pitch: Standard legroom suitable for domestic and short-haul regional flights.
- In-flight meals: Light meals, snacks, and hot and cold beverages are served on most flights, depending on the route duration.
Business Class
On select routes, Kish Air may offer a Business Class cabin with enhanced baggage allowances (up to 32 kg per piece for three pieces) and priority services. Availability depends on the specific route and aircraft assigned.
In-Flight Services
- Complimentary refreshments: Hot and cold drinks along with snacks or light meals are offered on most flights.
- Cabin crew: Kish Air's cabin crew provide attentive service throughout the flight, assisting passengers with any needs.
- Entertainment: In-flight entertainment systems are not standard on Kish Air flights. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own devices for entertainment on longer routes.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Kish Air accommodates a range of passenger needs with the following policies and services:
Children and Infants
- Infants (under 2 years): Infants may travel on a parent's lap at a reduced fare. A valid birth certificate or passport is required. Each adult passenger may accompany one infant.
- Children (2-12 years): Children aged 2 to 12 years require their own seat and are entitled to the same baggage allowance as adult passengers. A child fare may apply depending on the route.
Pregnant Passengers
- Pregnant passengers are generally permitted to fly up to 36 weeks of pregnancy for uncomplicated single pregnancies. A medical certificate from a qualified physician may be required for travel after 28 weeks of pregnancy.
- For multiple pregnancies or high-risk conditions, travel may be restricted earlier. Contact Kish Air directly for specific guidance before booking.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair assistance: Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance should notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure to ensure arrangements are in place.
- Medical equipment: Passengers travelling with medical equipment or requiring supplemental oxygen should contact Kish Air in advance to arrange approval and logistics.
- Unaccompanied minors: Policies for unaccompanied minors vary. Contact the airline directly to confirm eligibility and requirements for your specific route.
Frequent Flyer Programme
Kish Air does not currently operate a formal frequent flyer or loyalty rewards programme. Unlike many larger international carriers, the airline does not offer a points-based system for accumulating miles or earning tier status through repeat travel.
However, passengers can still enjoy savings on Kish Air flights by taking advantage of the following:
- Traveloka promotions: Check the Traveloka app and website regularly for exclusive deals, flash sales, and discount codes that can be applied to Kish Air flight bookings.
- Early booking discounts: Fares are generally lower when booked well in advance. Planning your trip early can help you secure the best prices.
- Traveloka Points: When you book Kish Air flights through Traveloka, you can earn Traveloka Points that can be redeemed for discounts on future bookings across flights, hotels, and other travel products.
For the latest information on any loyalty initiatives, check the official Kish Air website or the Traveloka platform for updates.
Why Book Kish Air Flights on Traveloka
Booking your Kish Air flights through Traveloka offers a range of advantages that make your travel planning seamless and rewarding:
- Easy comparison: Traveloka lets you compare Kish Air fares alongside other airlines on the same route, ensuring you always find the best deal for your journey.
- Flexible payment options: Pay for your tickets using a wide range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, online banking, and popular Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Instant e-ticket: Receive your electronic ticket confirmation immediately after booking. No need to visit a physical counter or wait for a paper ticket.
- 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's dedicated customer service team is available around the clock to assist with booking enquiries, changes, or any issues that may arise during your trip.
- Exclusive promos: Access Traveloka-exclusive promotions, voucher codes, and flash sales that may not be available on other platforms or the airline's own website.
- Traveloka Points: Earn loyalty points on every booking, which can be redeemed for discounts on future flights, hotel stays, and other travel products.
- Price alerts: Set up price alerts for your preferred routes and receive notifications when fares drop, so you never miss a great deal.
Kish Air Promotions and Deals on Traveloka
Traveloka regularly features promotions and deals that can help you save on Kish Air flights. Here are some tips to make the most of available offers:
- Flash sales: Keep an eye on Traveloka's flash sale events, which offer limited-time discounts on flights, including Kish Air routes. These sales often coincide with major holidays and festive seasons.
- Promo codes: Check the Traveloka app and website for active promo codes that can be applied at checkout for additional savings on your flight booking.
- Bundle deals: Save more by bundling your Kish Air flight with hotel accommodation through Traveloka's flight + hotel packages.
- Seasonal promotions: Look out for special promotions during Ramadan, Hari Raya, year-end sales, and other festive periods for discounted fares.
- E-wallet cashback: Enjoy cashback offers when paying with supported e-wallets like Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay on the Traveloka platform.
- Last-minute deals: If your travel dates are flexible, check for last-minute deals on Kish Air flights that may offer significant savings on unsold seats.
Visit the Traveloka app or website frequently to stay updated on the latest Kish Air promotions and never miss an opportunity to save on your next trip.
How to Book Kish Air Tickets on Traveloka
Booking Kish Air flights on Traveloka is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to secure your tickets:
- Visit Traveloka: Open the Traveloka app on your mobile device or visit the Traveloka website at www.traveloka.com.
- Search for flights: Enter your departure city, destination, travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class. Click the search button to view available flights.
- Filter and compare: Use the filter options to sort results by price, departure time, airline, or number of stops. Look for Kish Air flights in the search results.
- Select your flight: Choose your preferred Kish Air flight and review the fare details, baggage allowance, and flight schedule before proceeding.
- Enter passenger details: Fill in the required passenger information, including full name (as it appears on your passport or ID), contact details, and any special requests.
- Choose add-ons: Select any additional services you may need, such as travel insurance or extra baggage allowance, if available for your chosen flight.
- Make payment: Choose your preferred payment method from the available options, including credit or debit cards, online banking, or e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay.
- Receive confirmation: Once payment is completed, you will receive an instant e-ticket confirmation via email and within your Traveloka app. Save or print your e-ticket for check-in at the airport.
For a smooth travel experience, remember to check your flight status on Traveloka before heading to the airport. You can also manage your booking, request changes, or contact support directly through the Traveloka app.