ABU MUSA: Iran is set to increase the number of flights operating out of Abu Musa Airport as part of a strategic plan to enhance connectivity and meet the transportation needs of the residents on the island. CEO of Iran Airports and Air Navigation Company, Reza Nakhjavani, announced that discussions are underway to boost the current flight schedule. According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Nakhjavani noted that the initiative follows the visit of Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, to the Iranian islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb in the Persian Gulf. Prior to the minister's visit, the islands were serviced by a single weekly flight from Bandar Abbas Airport to Abu Musa Airport. In response to the minister's directive, the frequency of flights has already increased to four per week as of October 29. Nakhjavani detailed plans to further raise the number of flights to seven per week, contingent on the available capacity. He underscored the strategic importance of the islands and the necessity for daily flights to adequately serve the over 3,000 residents living there. Currently, Iran Air, Pars Air, and Karun Airlines operate flights between Abu Musa and Bandar Abbas, while Pouya Airlines has expressed interest in commencing operations to Abu Musa. Abu Musa County, which encompasses several islands including Abu Musa, Lesser Tunb, Greater Tunb, Siri, Lesser Farvar, and Greater Farvar, is noted for its scenic beauty and strategic location near international waters. This proximity underscores its significance in the shipping routes for vessels bound for Persian Gulf littoral countries.