Tehran, the capital of Iran, is served by two main airports: Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) and Mehrabad International Airport (THR). Imam Khomeini International is the modern main hub for international travel, located about 30 km southwest of the city center and connects Tehran to more than 40 global destinations. It handles most of the international flights and offers modern facilities including lounges, shops and efficient transport links.
Mehrabad Airport, located closer to central Tehran, is the primary domestic travel hub, managing over 17 million passengers annually. It has multiple terminals for domestic flights and provides easier access to the city compared to IKA. Both airports offer different advantages depending on whether you are traveling internationally or domestically, making Tehran well connected both within Iran and worldwide.
| Airport | Main role | Flight Connections | Transport to City | Proximity | Shopping & Food | Other Passenger Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) | Primary international airport, modern facilities, main hub for international connections | Over 40 international destinations, airlines including Iran Air, Mahan Air, Emirates, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and more | Tehran Metro Line 1 direct connection (~35-40 min, 8,000 IRR), airport shuttles, official taxis with fixed prices (~45-60 min), ride-sharing apps | 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Tehran city center | About 40 shops with duty-free options, variety of cafes and restaurants serving local and international cuisine, many open throughout the day | Lounges, free Wi-Fi, baggage storage, onsite hotels, ongoing terminal expansions for capacity growth |
| Mehrabad International Airport (THR) | Primary domestic airport, closer to city center, handles domestic flights only | Extensive domestic connections across Iran, operated by major Iranian carriers like Iran Air and other domestic airlines | Taxis and ride-sharing apps (~15-30 min to city center), public buses, close proximity for quick access | 9 km (5.6 miles) west of Tehran city center | Limited but sufficient for domestic travelers—cafes, small shops, and eateries with traditional and fast food | Older airport with multiple terminals, busy with domestic traffic, less modern than IKA but practical for short-distance travel |
Tehran’s airports serve distinct but complementary roles. Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) is the best choice for international travelers, offering modern facilities and extensive global connections, though it is farther from the city center. Mehrabad Airport (THR), on the other hand, offers convenient access for domestic passengers and those seeking proximity to the city, with many flights across Iran. Selecting the right airport depends on your travel plan and preferences for convenience or connectivity.
If you are looking for detailed info on the different Tehran airports, click on the airport profiles below.
