Yazd Airport

Yazd Airport, officially known as Shahid Sadooghi International Airport, serves as the main aerial gateway to one of the most ancient cities in the world. Located on the edge of the desert, this transport hub welcomes travelers ready to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of "One Thousand and One Nights" and witness the famous windcatchers. Despite its compact size, the airport ensures a comfortable arrival and acts as a vital link connecting central Iran with major metropolises and neighbouring countries.

Yazd Airport is distinguished by a calm atmosphere and a lack of the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs. Thanks to the short distance to the city, a taxi ride to the historical centre takes only about 15–20 minutes, making it extremely convenient for tourists.

Among the features and services of the terminal, the following can be highlighted:

• Convenient Navigation: The airport consists of a single main terminal, which is easy to navigate even for those arriving here for the first time.
• Souvenirs and Shops: In the departure zone, you can purchase famous Yazd sweets (such as pashmak and qottab) and traditional "termeh" fabrics to take a piece of local culture home with you.
• Basic Services: For passenger convenience, there are ATMs (accepting local cards), prayer rooms, and small cafes where you can have tea before your flight.
• VIP and CIP Services: For those who value enhanced comfort, a CIP service is available with a separate lounge and expedited formalities.

Below you will find the main contact information for Shahid Sadooghi International Airport (AZD), which may be useful when planning your trip.

• Official Website: yazd.airport.ir (website primarily in Persian).
• Information Desk Phone: +98 35 31010 or 199 (for calls within Iran).
• Address: Shahid Sadooghi Airport, Yazd, Yazd Province, Iran.
• Email: An official email for general passenger inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the phone for communication.
• Social Media: Official accounts on popular social networks were not found. For up-to-date information, please use the phone or the airport website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If luggage is lost, first contact your airline's representative at the airport. You can also contact the baggage tracing service by phone: +98 35 37223030.
• Passenger Support Service: For any necessary information and assistance, please contact the main airport information desk phone number.

Getting to Shahid Sadooghi International Airport, serving the city of Yazd, is quite simple thanks to its close proximity to the centre — just 10 kilometres away. A trip by car usually takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. There are several ways to get to the airport suitable for different categories of travelers.

Taxi and Transfers are the most popular and convenient option. Ride-hailing apps are widely used in the city, such as Snapp and Tapsi, which are local equivalents to Uber or Careem. This is generally the most cost-effective and fastest method: the trip cost is fixed in the app, eliminating misunderstandings with the driver. You can also use regular city taxis, but it is better to agree on the price in advance. For maximum comfort, especially when travelling with large luggage or at night, you can book a private transfer through your hotel or a travel agency.

Public Transport in the form of buses exists in the city, however, there are practically no direct and convenient routes to the airport for tourists. This method can be difficult due to the language barrier and the need for transfers, so it is not recommended for travelers who value their time and comfort. There is no metro or rail connection to Yazd Airport.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively travel around Yazd province and other regions of Iran, renting a car can be a good solution. Rental offices can be found both in the city and at the airport itself. Foreigners will need an International Driving Permit to drive in Iran. The airport has a parking lot where you can leave your car for a short or long term, which is convenient if you are flying away for a few days.

Shahid Sadooghi Airport in Yazd (AZD) is a compact and modern aviation hub characterized by a simple and clear structure. You won't have to worry about complex transfers and long corridors: the airport operates one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights.

The terminal layout is logically divided into functional zones. The ground floor usually houses check-in counters and the arrival area with baggage claim belts. After check-in, passengers proceed to the departure zone, where they go through passport control (for international flights) and security screening. Although there is only one terminal, passenger flows for international and domestic flights are separated, heading to the corresponding boarding gates. Navigation is intuitive thanks to signs in Farsi and English.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Yazd airport typically does not take much time. For domestic flights within Iran, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to allow about 2.5–3 hours. Due to the small size of the airport, queues for check-in and screening usually move quickly, however, small delays are possible during peak hours or during the pilgrimage season.

Since the airport consists of a single building, moving between zones presents no difficulty, and the concept of "transfer between terminals" is irrelevant here. Everything you need — from the waiting lounge to small cafes and souvenir shops — is within walking distance. The main advice for travelers: follow the standard signs, and you will easily find your boarding gate. The compactness of the terminal makes it especially convenient for those who dislike the rush and bustle of large aviation hubs.

The history of Yazd Shahid Sadooghi Airport (AZD) began in 1970, when it was opened to improve transport accessibility for the city of Yazd — an important industrial and cultural centre of Iran. Initially, it was a modest airfield serving primarily domestic flights. The airport received its official name in honour of Mohammad Sadooghi, a prominent Iranian figure.

A key stage in the development of the air harbour was the growth of Yazd's tourist appeal, especially after its historical centre was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. To meet new requirements, the airport received international status in the early 2000s. This allowed for the launch of the first international flights, including pilgrimage and tourist charters. Reconstruction was carried out for this purpose: the runway was lengthened and strengthened, and the sole terminal building was modernized to serve international passengers.

A new round of development occurred in the 2010s. In 2016, a large-scale expansion project was launched, aimed at increasing capacity from 600,000 to over 2 million passengers per year. As part of the modernization, a modern Instrument Landing System (ILS) was installed, which increased the safety and regularity of flights in difficult weather conditions. Today, Yazd Airport is a modern transport hub whose history clearly reflects the city's transformation into one of the country's most sought-after tourist destinations.

Shahid Sadooghi Airport in Yazd (AZD) is a regional airport offering passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait before departure. Although it cannot boast the scale of major international hubs, it has everything necessary for travelers setting off to explore one of the most ancient cities in Iran.

To satisfy hunger and do some shopping, the terminal features several cafes and snack bars where you can drink tea or coffee and try local sweets. There are also small shops offering souvenirs, handicrafts, and travel goods. The selection is limited but allows you to purchase memorable gifts.

For a more comfortable wait, a CIP lounge (Commercial Important Person) is usually available at the airport, offering a secluded atmosphere, drinks, and snacks. Access is typically paid. Free Wi-Fi may be limited by time or speed, but charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting halls.

Financial services are represented by ATMs and currency exchange points, where major world currencies can be exchanged for Iranian Rials. In case of feeling unwell, a medical post operates at the airport to provide first aid. For passengers with children, mother and child rooms are equipped, and for people with disabilities, a basic accessible environment has been created, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms.

There are no specialized business centres or conference halls at the airport. Also, there is no hotel on its territory, however, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Yazd itself, which is easily accessible by taxi in 15–20 minutes.

Shahid Sadooghi Airport in Yazd (AZD) offers passengers several basic but convenient options for a snack or lunch before departure. While the selection here does not compare with large international hubs, you won't go hungry.

The main food outlets are located in the main terminal. Typically, these are a few cafes and small snack bars that can be found both in the general area before security control (landside) and in the departure lounge after it (airside). This allows both well-wishers and passengers waiting to board their flight to have a bite.

For a quick snack, the local sweets for which Yazd is famous — such as baklava or qottab — are perfect. You can take them with you or eat them on the spot with a cup of aromatic Iranian tea or coffee. Cafes also usually offer sandwiches, pastries, and soft drinks. If you have time for a full meal, there is a small establishment in the airport serving simple hot dishes, such as kebab with rice. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the flavours of Iran one last time before leaving.

Regarding special dietary preferences, it is worth noting that practically all food in the country is Halal by default. Finding vegetarian options, such as pastries with cheese or vegetable snacks, is usually not difficult. However, finding certified gluten-free or vegan dishes can be challenging, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to carry their own snacks. Prices in airport establishments are moderate, and their opening hours are generally tied to the flight schedule, so they are open to serve passengers for both morning and evening departures.

When planning a departure from the airport in Yazd, consider a few tips that will make your journey more comfortable. It is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international ones. This time is usually sufficient for a calm passage through all formalities, especially during peak seasons.

Check-in and security control procedures at Yazd airport are standard but can be quite thorough. Keep your passport, visa, and flight ticket ready. To speed up the process, pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag in advance and remove electronics from your hand luggage during screening.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from Yazd, note that window seats will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the desert landscapes of central Iran. If freedom of movement and the ability to leave the cabin quickly upon arrival are more important to you, choose an aisle seat.

International rules apply to carry-on luggage: sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited. However, Iran has its own strict restrictions. It is categorically forbidden to carry alcoholic beverages, pork and pork products, as well as materials that may be considered contrary to Islamic values (for example, certain magazines or films).

Yazd Airport is not a major transit hub, so transfers here are rare and mostly concern domestic flights. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. In most cases, for domestic flights, luggage is transferred automatically.

Customs control upon arrival in Iran or upon departure can be strict. Be prepared to declare large amounts of foreign currency and expensive electronics (laptops, professional cameras). Upon departure, you may be asked to present receipts for purchased carpets or other valuable souvenirs to confirm their legal acquisition.

To save time, check in for your flight online if possible. To save money, you can order a taxi in advance through local apps or arrange a transfer with your hotel — this is often cheaper than taking a car directly at the terminal. Also, bring a light snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. The carrier is obliged to provide drinks and meals during long waits. Given that Yazd airport is small, the choice of entertainment is limited, so it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or movies downloaded to your device with you.