Ultimate Guide to Mehrabad Airport in Tehran

Mehrabad Airport in Tehran is one of Iran’s oldest and most iconic airports, serving as a key domestic travel hub for nearly 80 years.

From its early days when the Germans helped establish it, to its modern-day role in connecting the bustling capital with cities across the country, Mehrabad has been at the heart of Iran’s aviation history.

Originally known as Hossein Abad, this area was renamed Mehrabad after its transformation, symbolizing a new chapter in Tehran’s development. Though international flights were moved to Imam Khomeini International Airport in 2007, Mehrabad continues to thrive, offering modern facilities and efficient connections, making it a key gateway for domestic travelers.

Facilities and Terminals of Mehrabad Airport

Mehrabad Airport is equipped with six terminals, each designated for specific airlines and purposes, helping to manage the large number of passengers traveling through the airport. After the transfer of international flights to Imam Khomeini International Airport, Mehrabad’s terminals were restructured to focus on domestic and pilgrimage flights.

1. Terminal 1 now serves outbound flights for Kish Air and Zagros Airlines, which operate flights to popular destinations within Iran, such as Kish Island.
2. Terminal 2 is a busy terminal handling both incoming and outgoing flights for Ata Airlines, Qeshm Air, Meraj, Naft Airlines, Iran Air, and Iran Air Tour. This terminal is commonly used by passengers flying with these airlines for domestic routes.
3. Terminal 3 and the newly added Terminal 5 are specifically designated for Hajj, Tamattu, and Umrah pilgrimage flights, ensuring that the airport can handle the large groups of travelers heading to Saudi Arabia for religious journeys.
4. Terminal 4 manages outgoing flights for Aseman Airlines, Mahan Air, Taban Airlines, and Caspian Airlines, catering to passengers traveling domestically across Iran.
5. Terminal 6 is primarily used for incoming flights of the same airlines as Terminal 4, completing the cycle of travel for these airlines.

Mehrabad Airport also offers a range of passenger services to enhance travelers’ experience. There are numerous restaurants and coffee shops located throughout the terminals, providing a variety of food and drink options to suit different tastes. Gift and souvenir shops allow travelers to pick up last-minute purchases, and the airport is equipped with ATMs and bank branches to handle financial transactions.

Parking is convenient with three multi-storey parking lots available, offering space for up to 3,500 cars. An additional 750 spaces are available near the Hajj terminals, making parking stress-free even during peak pilgrimage seasons.

One of the standout features of Mehrabad Airport is its capsule hotel, a modern amenity for passengers facing flight delays or long layovers. These compact, comfortable rest pods offer a quiet and private space for passengers to relax, ensuring that travelers can get some rest before their next journey. This service has been especially well-received by those needing a break from the busy atmosphere of the airport.

Transportation and Accessibility at Mehrabad Airport

Mehrabad Airport is conveniently located in the western part of Tehran, making it easily accessible by a variety of public transportation options, including the metro, buses, and taxis. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, getting to and from Mehrabad is straightforward and efficient.

Metro

One of the most convenient ways to reach the airport is via the Tehran Metro. Line 4 of the metro system connects the city to Mehrabad, with two dedicated stations serving the airport:

1. Mehrabad Airport Metro Station 1 is located opposite Terminal 2, providing easy access for passengers departing from or arriving at that terminal.
2. Mehrabad Airport Metro Station 2 is located next to Terminal 6, making it highly accessible for travelers using that terminal for inbound flights. Both metro stations were opened to the public in 2016 and provide a fast and affordable way to access the airport from central Tehran and other parts of the city.

Bus

In addition to the metro, Mehrabad Airport is well-served by bus routes that connect key parts of Tehran to the airport. The following routes are particularly useful:

1. Bus Line 3-5 connects Mehrabad Airport to Azadi Square, a major transportation hub in Tehran.
2. Bus Line 10 BRT operates from Azadi Terminal to Hesarak, passing by Sadeghieh Square, which is another important junction.

Taxi

For those who prefer private transportation, taxis are readily available at all terminals. Official taxis can be booked at counters inside the terminals, where passengers can also obtain receipts. These taxis operate around the clock, ensuring that passengers have a reliable means of transportation regardless of the time of day. Ridesharing services are also available for more flexibility in terms of cost and convenience.

Car

Mehrabad Airport’s location adds to its accessibility. The airport is situated near several major highways, which makes it easily reachable by car. To the north, it is bordered by the 65-meter Fath Highway, while the Ayatollah Saeedi Highway runs along its western side. Additionally, the Karaj Special Road lies to the south of the airport, providing direct connections to and from the outskirts of Tehran and the city’s central areas.

With such a comprehensive range of transportation options—metro, bus, taxi, and direct highway access—Mehrabad Airport ensures that travelers can get to and from the airport with ease, no matter their mode of transport.

General Information

For quick access to essential services at Mehrabad Airport, passengers can reach the Flight Information line at 199 for real-time updates on arrivals and departures. For general inquiries, the Call Center is available at 61021, while the Airport Management Office can be contacted at 66025343 for any specific concerns. Additionally, travelers can use the airport's SMS System by texting 3000199 for automated information. These resources ensure that passengers stay informed and supported throughout their journey.

Historical Background of Mehrabad Airport

Mehrabad Airport’s story begins nearly a century ago, when Tehran was a rapidly growing city in need of modern infrastructure. Initially, the area where the airport stands was known as Hossein Abad, a small village owned by Haji Mirza Aghasi, the Prime Minister of Mohammad Shah Qajar. Later, it became the property of Naser al-Din Shah and was included in the dowry of Esmat al-Dawla, his daughter. The name Mehrabad came after a series of developments, symbolizing a new beginning for the area, yet it didn’t remain in the original family's possession for long.

The airport’s actual construction began with the help of the Germans in the 1930s, as Iran sought to modernize and improve its transportation network. This collaboration was part of broader efforts to enhance aviation infrastructure in the country, and Mehrabad soon became the center of these efforts. In 1938, the establishment of a pilot club marked the formal creation of Mehrabad Airport, which initially handled only a small number of aircraft.

The airport witnessed its first flight in 1917, when a Russian pilot astonished the people of Tehran by flying over the city, which was then without any modern buildings or towers. Following this, aviation in Tehran began to grow, and Mehrabad became the first airport to serve both civilian and military purposes.

Key milestones in Mehrabad’s history include its role during World War II, when it was used as a strategic military base. Later, in the 1940s, Iran's air force began operating from Mehrabad, and in the following decades, the airport saw a steady increase in both domestic and international flights, marking its evolution into one of the most important transportation hubs in Iran.

Finally!

Mehrabad Airport stands as a historic and vital component of Iran's aviation landscape, reflecting the country’s rich aviation heritage while adapting to modern needs. Serving primarily domestic flights and pilgrimage journeys, it continues to play a significant role in connecting people across Iran. With its six dedicated terminals, diverse passenger services, and convenient transportation options, Mehrabad ensures a smooth travel experience for all visitors. As the airport evolves and modernizes, it remains a testament to Tehran's growth and development in the aviation sector. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler from abroad, Mehrabad Airport provides a gateway to explore the beauty and culture of Iran.

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