list of airports in Iran
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# Exploring Iranian Skies: A Comprehensive Guide to Airports in Iran
Iran, a land of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, is becoming increasingly accessible to travelers. Understanding the country’s airport infrastructure is a crucial first step in planning a trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Iran, covering major hubs, regional facilities, and essential travel information.
## **Major International Airports**
Iran boasts several international airports capable of handling large aircraft and connecting travelers to destinations worldwide. These airports typically offer a wider range of amenities, including duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and comfortable lounges.
* **Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA):** Located in Tehran, IKA is by far the busiest and most important airport in Iran. It serves as the primary international gateway and is the hub for Iran Air and other domestic carriers. Significant investment has been made in expanding IKA’s capacity and modernizing its facilities.
* **Mehrabad International Airport (THR):** Also in Tehran, Mehrabad primarily handles domestic flights and regional international connections, particularly to neighboring countries. While IKA has taken over much of the international traffic, Mehrabad remains a vital part of Iran’s aviation network.
* **Shahid Beheshti International Airport (BND):** Situated in Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city and a major pilgrimage destination, this airport sees a high volume of traffic, especially from religious tourists visiting the Imam Reza shrine.
* **Sardar-e-Jangal Airport (SXT):** Located in Rasht, the capital of Gilan Province, this airport serves the Caspian Sea region and is growing in importance as tourism to this area increases.
* **Shiraz International Airport (SYZ):** Serving the historic city of Shiraz, this airport provides access to the cultural heartland of Persia, including Persepolis and the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque.
## **Regional Airports & Domestic Connectivity**
Beyond the major international hubs, Iran has a network of regional airports that connect various cities and provinces, facilitating domestic travel and providing access to more remote areas.
* **Isfahan International Airport (IFN):** Serving the beautiful city of Isfahan, known for its stunning Islamic architecture.
* **Tabriz International Airport (TBZ):** A key airport in northwestern Iran, serving the city of Tabriz and surrounding regions.
* **Ahvaz International Airport (AWZ):** Located in southwestern Iran, serving the city of Ahvaz and the oil-rich Khuzestan province.
* **Kerman International Airport (KER):** Serving the city of Kerman, a historic trading center on the Silk Road.
* **Urmia International Airport (UIA):** Located in West Azerbaijan Province, serving the city of Urmia and the Urmia Lake region.
* **Zahedan International Airport (ZDH):** Serving the southeastern city of Zahedan, near the Pakistan and Afghanistan borders.
## **List of Airports in Iran**
Here's a table summarizing key airports in Iran, including their IATA/ICAO codes and locations:
| Airport Name | IATA Code | ICAO Code | City | Province |
|-----------------------------------|-----------|-----------|---------------|-------------------|
| Imam Khomeini International Airport | IKA | OIIX | Tehran | Tehran |
| Mehrabad International Airport | THR | OTHR | Tehran | Tehran |
| Shahid Beheshti International Airport| BND | OIMS | Mashhad | Razavi Khorasan |
| Sardar-e-Jangal Airport | SXT | OONS | Rasht | Gilan |
| Shiraz International Airport | SYZ | OSHS | Shiraz | Fars |
| Isfahan International Airport | IFN | OIFM | Isfahan | Isfahan |
| Tabriz International Airport | TBZ | OBTZ | Tabriz | East Azerbaijan |
| Ahvaz International Airport | AWZ | OAHZ | Ahvaz | Khuzestan |
| Kerman International Airport | KER | OKMK | Kerman | Kerman |
| Urmia International Airport | UIA | OUUM | Urmia | West Azerbaijan |
| Zahedan International Airport | ZDH | OZDJ | Zahedan | Sistan & Baluchestan|
| Kish International Airport | KIH | OUKI | Kish Island | Hormozgan |
| Qeshm International Airport | QSH | OQSM | Qeshm Island | Hormozgan |
| Bandar Abbas International Airport | BND | OBBB | Bandar Abbas | Hormozgan |
| Sari International Airport | SZD | ONSF | Sari | Mazandaran |
| Yazd International Airport | YZD | OIZY | Yazd | Yazd |
| Ardabil International Airport | ADU | OARD | Ardabil | Ardabil |
| Ilam International Airport | ILA | OILA | Ilam | Ilam |
*Note: This is not an exhaustive list, but includes the most significant airports in Iran.*
## **Navigating Iranian Airports: What to Expect**
Traveling through Iranian airports can be a unique experience. Here's what you should be prepared for:
* **Security:** Security checks are thorough and can take time. Be patient and cooperative.
* **Dress Code:** Iran has a conservative dress code. Women are required to cover their hair with a headscarf (hijab) and wear loose-fitting clothing. Men should avoid wearing shorts.
* **Currency Exchange:** Currency exchange facilities are available at most international airports, but it's advisable to have some Iranian Rial (IRR) on hand for smaller expenses.
* **Language:** While English is spoken at major airports, knowing a few basic Persian phrases can be helpful.
* **Visa Requirements:** Ensure you have the necessary visa before traveling to Iran.
## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
**Q1: What is the busiest airport in Iran?**
A1: Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran is the busiest airport in Iran.
**Q2: Do I need a transit visa if I'm connecting through an Iranian airport?**
A2: Generally, yes. Transit visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your layover. Check with the Iranian embassy or consulate in your country.
**Q3: Is Wi-Fi available at Iranian airports?**
A3: Wi-Fi is available at IKA and some other major airports, but the quality and accessibility can vary.
**Q4: What airlines fly to Iran?**
A4: Several international airlines fly to Iran, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa (limited routes). Iran Air is the national carrier.
**Q5: What is the best way to get from the airport to the city center in Tehran?**
A5: Taxis are readily available at IKA and THR. There's also a metro line connecting IKA to Tehran's city center.
## **Resources**
* **Iran Airports Company:** [https://www.iranairports.com/](https://www.iranairports.com/)
* **Iran Air:** [https://www.iranair.com/](https://www.iranair.com/)
* **Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran:** [https://mfa.ir/en/](https://mfa.ir/en/)
* **World Airport Codes:** [https://worldairportcodes.com/country/iran](https://worldairportcodes.com/country/iran)
* **Travel advisories from your country's government:** (Always check the latest travel advice before your trip.)