Mehrabad International Airport

Mehrabad Airport is not merely a transport hub, but the true beating heart of Iran's domestic aviation. Unlike the remote Imam Khomeini International Airport, Mehrabad is located practically within the city limits, allowing travellers to be in the thick of Tehran's action just 15–20 minutes after landing. This historic terminal serves as the main starting point for those planning to explore the ancient cities of Persia: dozens of flights depart daily from here to Shiraz, Isfahan, Yazd, and Kish Island.

Airport Features and Advantages:

The main advantage of Mehrabad is its unique location. It is situated just a few kilometres from the famous Azadi Square, making the journey to the city centre incredibly short and affordable. The airport is integrated into the urban transport system: a metro line (Yellow Line 4) runs here, with two separate stations for different terminals, allowing passengers to avoid the notorious Tehran traffic jams.

Passengers should be aware of the complex terminal system. Terminals 1 and 2 service flights for Iran Air and Iran Airtour, while Terminals 4 and 6 handle flights for other carriers (such as Mahan Air or Aseman Airlines). Moving between them can take time, so it is important to check the terminal number on your ticket in advance. Despite its age, the airport offers all necessary basic services: from cafes serving traditional tea to souvenir shops.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Mehrabad Airport (THR). We recommend checking the accuracy of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find flight schedules, news, and general information on the website mehrabad.airport.ir.
• Information Desk Phone: For calls from abroad, use the number +98 21 61021. For calls within Iran, the short code 199 is available.
• Airport Address: Mehrabad International Airport (THR), Tehran, Meraj St, Iran.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the address info.mehrabad@airport.ir, however, for urgent matters, it is better to use the telephone.
• Lost Luggage: In case of loss or damage to luggage, please contact your airline's representative first. The airport baggage tracing service phone number is: +98 21 61023193.
• Social Media: Official pages on international social networks may be absent or updated irregularly. The airport website remains the most reliable source of information.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main information desk number.

Mehrabad Airport (THR) is located in the western part of Tehran, directly within the city limits, making it easily accessible from any point in the capital. There are several convenient ways to get to its terminals, suitable for different budgets and preferences. It is important to note that Mehrabad mainly serves domestic flights within Iran. For most international flights, Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) is used.

Public Transport

The most reliable and economical way to get to Mehrabad Airport is the Tehran Metro. Special branches from the Yellow Line (Line 4) lead directly to the terminals. There are two stations: one serves Terminals 1 and 2, and the other serves Terminals 4 and 6. This is the ideal option to avoid the famous Tehran traffic. A metro ride from the city centre will take about 40-50 minutes. City buses and shared taxis also operate in the airport area, but their routes can be complicated for tourists who do not speak Farsi.

Taxi and Transfer

A taxi is a more comfortable, albeit more expensive, method. You can use official city taxis (usually yellow or green) or book a car through mobile apps popular in Iran, such as Snapp or Tapsi. Booking via an app is generally cheaper and eliminates the need to haggle over the price. Travel time from the centre depends heavily on traffic conditions and can range from 30 minutes without traffic to 1.5 hours during rush hour.

Car Rental and Parking

If you are travelling in your own or a rented car, getting to the airport is not difficult thanks to good road signs. Mehrabad Airport provides both short-term and long-term multi-level car parks at each of the main terminals (1, 2, 4, 6). This is a convenient option if you plan to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Mehrabad Airport (THR) is one of the oldest and busiest airports in Iran, serving predominantly domestic flights. Its structure may seem unusual as it consists of several separate terminals. The key to successful navigation is knowing in advance exactly which terminal you need.

Number and Purpose of Terminals

Mehrabad Airport operates four main civil terminals, as well as terminals for special flights:

• Terminals 1 and 2: Located next to each other. Terminal 1 is used mainly for the arrival of Kish Air and Zagros Airlines flights. Terminal 2 handles departures and arrivals for Iran Air, as well as departures for Kish Air, Zagros Airlines, and some other carriers.
• Terminals 4 and 6: This pair serves the majority of other domestic airlines, including Mahan Air, Aseman Airlines, Taban Air, and others. It is important to remember: Terminal 4 is for departures only, and Terminal 6 is for arrivals only for passengers of these airlines.
• Terminals 3 and 5: These are used for pilgrimage flights (Hajj and Umrah) and some cargo flights, so regular passengers generally do not encounter them.

Airport Map and Transfer Between Terminals

The terminals are not connected by covered walkways. Terminals 1 and 2 are within walking distance of each other, as are Terminals 4 and 6. However, there is a significant distance between these two groups (1/2 and 4/6). A free shuttle bus runs between them for transfers. You can also use a taxi if you are short on time.

Procedures and Recommendations

Departure zones in Terminals 2 and 4 are standard: check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. Arrival zones (Terminals 1, 2, 6) include baggage claim belts and exits to the city. Time for check-in and security screening varies, but during peak hours, it is worth allowing at least an hour. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight.

Top Tip: Always check the departure terminal number on your ticket or the airline's website before travelling to the airport. Terminal information is the most critical detail for quick and calm navigation through Mehrabad.

The history of Mehrabad Airport (THR) is inextricably linked with the history of aviation in Iran. Its journey began in 1938 with the founding of a small airfield for a local aviation club. A significant turning point was the use of the airfield by Allied forces during World War II, which spurred its further development. After the war, in 1949, it was officially opened for commercial flights and quickly became the country's main international airport.

The period from the 1950s to the 1970s was a golden age for Mehrabad. During these decades, its key terminals were built, including Terminals 1 and 2, and the airport became one of the busiest aviation hubs in the Middle East. It hosted flights from leading global airlines and served as an important transit point. A notable fact: in the 1970s, Mehrabad was one of the few venues in the world where the supersonic passenger aircraft Concorde landed during its demonstration tours, highlighting the airport's high status.

With the opening of the new Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in 2004, Mehrabad's role changed. Most international flights were redirected to the new, more modern airport. Mehrabad took on a new specialisation, becoming the main centre for Iran's domestic aviation. Today, it serves the vast majority of flights within the country and remains one of the busiest airports in terms of domestic passenger traffic, continuing to undergo regular modernisation to maintain comfort and safety.

The airport owes its name to the district of Tehran where it is located. "Mehrabad" translates from Persian as "prosperous village of the sun" or "place of love". Its multi-terminal structure is a visual testament to its long history and phased expansion. Old terminals, built over half a century ago, continue to operate side by side with newer ones, creating a unique atmosphere where aviation history meets modernity.

Mehrabad Airport (THR) offers passengers a full range of services and amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay while waiting for a flight. The airport's infrastructure is geared towards meeting the needs of both domestic and international travellers, although the main focus is on domestic transport.

For those feeling hungry, the terminals feature numerous restaurants and cafes where you can grab a quick sandwich and coffee or enjoy a full meal of local and European cuisine. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, Iranian sweets, press, and travel essentials. For a more comfortable wait, VIP lounges and CIP (Commercially Important Person) halls are available, offering a private atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and other privileges.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special stations are equipped for charging gadgets. This allows you to stay connected and handle work matters. Financial services are represented by bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points located in easily accessible areas of the terminals.

Care for passenger health and safety is one of the airport's priorities. A medical point operates here around the clock, ready to provide first aid if necessary. Mother and child rooms are provided for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including escort services and special equipment for moving around the terminal.

Although there are no hotels within the airport grounds, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, offering convenient accommodation options for transit passengers or those with early flights. For business travellers, basic business services may be available in VIP lounges, but there are no specialised conference centres at Mehrabad Airport.

Mehrabad Airport, serving primarily domestic flights, offers passengers a good selection of establishments to grab a snack or have a full lunch before departure. The dining spots reflect Iranian culinary traditions, allowing travellers to experience local cuisine right inside the terminal building.

In the main passenger terminals (Terminals 1, 2, 4, and 6), there are both small cafes and full-service restaurants. Establishments are located in both the public area (before security control) and the "airside" departure zone. Generally, fast food outlets and coffee shops are concentrated in the departure zone, while restaurants for a leisurely meal with people seeing you off can be found in the public zone.

For a full meal, it is worth looking at restaurants offering classic Iranian cuisine. Be sure to try different types of kebab (for example, `Jujeh Kabab` made from chicken or `Kabab Koobideh` made from minced meat), which are served with rice, saffron, and grilled tomatoes. For a quick snack, sandwiches, fresh pastries (`shirini`), or traditional Iranian soups, such as the thick and hearty `Ash Reshteh`, are ideal.

Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the last planes depart. Prices at the airport are moderate—higher than in the city, but quite acceptable for travellers. It is recommended to have some cash with you, although many places accept local bank cards.

Regarding dietary restrictions, virtually all food in Iran is Halal by default. Vegetarians will easily find suitable dishes: Iranian cuisine is rich in recipes based on aubergines, lentils, herbs, and legumes. However, for strictly vegan or gluten-free options, the choice may be limited, so it is better to stick to simple dishes such as rice, salads, and fresh fruit, and always check the ingredients with the staff.

When planning a trip through Mehrabad Airport, there are several points to consider that will make your journey more comfortable. First and foremost, remember that Mehrabad primarily serves domestic flights within Iran. For most international flights, Imam Khomeini Airport (IKA) is used. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will give you enough time to go through all procedures without rushing, especially during peak hours when queues for check-in and security screening may form.

The check-in and security control process is generally standard but may take longer than expected. Ensure all your documents are in order. When choosing a seat on the plane, if possible, consider the flight direction: sometimes impressive views of the mountains or cityscapes open up from the window. This is particularly relevant for flights from Tehran, which is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges.

Pay special attention to hand luggage regulations. Besides standard international restrictions on liquids (no more than 100 ml in one container), strict prohibitions apply in Iran. It is categorically forbidden to carry any alcoholic products, as well as pork and materials that may be considered offensive according to local cultural norms. It is best to double-check the list of prohibited items on the airline's website before travelling.

If you have a transfer at Mehrabad, study the airport map in advance. Signs may not always be duplicated in English, so having an offline map or a translator on your phone can be very useful. Customs control upon arrival/departure for international flights (which are rare here) is standard, but be prepared to declare large amounts of currency or expensive electronics.

To save time and money, consider using public transport to get to the airport—there is a metro station next to Mehrabad. In case of a flight delay, all current information will be displayed on the departure boards. Contact your airline representative to clarify details and receive possible compensation, such as drinks or food, if the wait extends for several hours.