Mesa Gateway Airport

Mesa Gateway sits on the site of the former Williams Air Force Base, which means it has infrastructure built for military jets: the primary runway is 10,401 feet, long enough for any business jet including ultra-long range aircraft like the Global 7500 or Gulfstream G700. That runway length, combined with minimal congestion, makes KIWA a practical alternative to the perpetually busy Scottsdale Airport for passengers who can work with the extra distance from central Phoenix.

The airport has commercial service (Allegiant and Sun Country use the terminal), but private aviation operates through a separate FBO, so you won't share a ramp with commercial passengers. No slot requirements, no prior permission needed. You land, pull to the FBO, and you're done. That simplicity is the main draw here.

KIWA is the right call if your destination is in the East Valley: Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Mesa itself, or the southeast Scottsdale corridor. If you're heading to Scottsdale's Old Town, Tempe, or central Phoenix, weigh the drive time against the convenience of using KSDL or KPHX instead.

Chandler is about 20 miles west, roughly 20 minutes by car in normal traffic. Gilbert is about 18 miles northwest, also around 20 minutes. Old Town Scottsdale runs about 30 miles from the airport, typically 30 to 35 minutes. Downtown Phoenix is 35 miles and can take 35 to 45 minutes depending on I-60 and US-60 conditions.

Rental cars are available on site. Rideshare (Uber and Lyft) picks up reliably at the airport. Car services catering to private aviation passengers operate in the area and can be pre-arranged through your FBO.