Iran’s aviation industry is a fascinating mix of history, resilience, and modernization. Whether you’re planning a domestic flight from Tehran to Shiraz with iran visa or heading abroad from Mashhad to Istanbul, understanding Iran’s airlines can help you make better travel choices.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the most popular Iranian airlines, their safety records, fleet types, destinations, and tips for booking your flight smoothly—especially if you're a foreign traveler.
???? Why Fly with Iranian Airlines?
While Iran has an extensive and reliable bus and rail system, flying remains the fastest and most efficient way to cover long distances across this vast country—especially when you're short on time.
Some reasons to consider flying in Iran:
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Affordable domestic flights
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Access to remote cities in less than 2 hours
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Multiple daily connections between major cities
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International routes to the Middle East, Asia, and Europe
???? Top Iranian Airlines
Here’s a look at the most trusted and well-known Iranian airlines:
1. Iran Air (HOMA)
???? Flag copyright of Iran
Founded: 1961
Fleet: Airbus, ATR, A300, and Boeing
Known for: Solid reputation, international routes
Destinations:
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Domestic: Almost every major Iranian city
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International: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Beirut, Dubai, etc.
???? Fun fact: Iran Air’s iconic logo is based on a mythical bird called the “Homa.”
2. Mahan Air
???? One of the most active private airlines
Founded: 1992
Fleet: Airbus A310, A340, Boeing 747
Known for: Great in-flight service, long-haul capability
Destinations:
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Domestic: Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, Bandar Abbas, Kerman
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International: Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Istanbul, Dubai, Damascus
???? Note: Some Mahan Air flights are subject to international restrictions, so double-check availability if flying to/from Europe.
3. Qeshm Air
???? Popular for regional routes
Founded: 1993
Fleet: Airbus A300s, Avro RJ100, Fokker 100
Known for: Reliable short-haul flights
Destinations:
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Domestic: Qeshm, Tehran, Kish Island, Mashhad
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International: Dubai, Muscat, Istanbul, Najaf
4. Aseman Airlines
???? Government-owned and service-focused
Founded: 1980
Fleet: Airbus and Fokker
Known for: Good service on less-traveled routes
Destinations:
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Domestic: Yazd, Tabriz, Bushehr, Sanandaj
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International: Baghdad, Kuwait, Dubai
5. Kish Air
???? Tourist-friendly airline to the islands
Founded: 1989
Fleet: MD-82, MD-83, Airbus A320
Known for: Popular among tourists heading to southern coastal cities
Destinations:
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Domestic: Kish Island, Tehran, Shiraz, Bandar Abbas
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International: Dubai, Muscat
6. Taban Air
???? Smaller private airline
Founded: 2006
Fleet: Airbus and MD aircraft
Known for: Value-oriented, with good coverage of western cities
Destinations: Tehran, Mashhad, Ahvaz, Isfahan, Najaf
????️ Map of Popular Domestic Routes
Here are the most popular domestic routes covered by Iranian airlines:
| Route | Flight Time | Popular Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Tehran → Shiraz | 1.5 hrs | Mahan Air, Iran Air, Qeshm Air |
| Tehran → Isfahan | 1 hr | Iran Air, Taban Air |
| Tehran → Mashhad | 1.5 hrs | Mahan Air, Aseman |
| Tehran → Kish Island | 2 hrs | Kish Air, Mahan Air |
| Shiraz → Tabriz | 2 hrs | Iran Air, Aseman |
| Isfahan → Ahvaz | 1.5 hrs | Qeshm Air |
???? International Routes from Iran
Most major cities like Tehran (IKA), Mashhad (MHD), and Shiraz (SYZ) offer international flights to:
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Istanbul (IST, SAW)
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Dubai (DXB)
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Doha (DOH)
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Baghdad (BGW)
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Kuala Lumpur (KUL)
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Beirut (BEY)
For long-haul travelers, Iran Air is the most reliable airline offering flights to Europe, including London Heathrow and Paris CDG.
???? How to Book Iranian Flights
1. Iranian Travel Agencies
Great for tourists, especially if you don’t have an Iranian bank card.
2. Online Booking Websites
⚠️ Note: Some platforms only accept Iranian debit cards. Ask your hotel or guide for assistance if needed.
✈️ Travel Tips for Flying in Iran
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???? Bring your copyright – Required even for domestic flights if you're a foreigner
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???? Check baggage allowance – Typically 20 kg for economy
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???? Arrive early – Domestic flights board earlier than expected
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???? Domestic terminals are different – Always confirm which terminal to go to
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???? Download Google Translate – Helpful at smaller airports
???? Final Thoughts
Flying with Iranian airlines is an affordable, convenient, and surprisingly comfortable way to explore the country. Whether you're heading to the lush Caspian north or the sunny shores of the Persian Gulf, you'll find multiple options to suit your schedule and budget.
Choose Iran Air or Mahan Air for international routes, and consider Qeshm Air or Kish Air for domestic adventures. With daily flights across all major cities, Iran’s skies are more open than you think!
❓ FAQs
1. Are Iranian airlines safe?
Yes, most have strong safety records and comply with local aviation standards.
2. Can tourists fly domestically in Iran?
Absolutely. Just show your copyright when booking and checking in.
3. Are there English-speaking staff at airports?
At major airports like IKA (Tehran), yes. In smaller cities, it may vary.
4. Do Iranian airlines serve food?
Yes. Even on short flights, you’ll usually get a snack or a meal.
5. Can I cancel or change a flight in Iran?
Yes, but each airline has different policies. Check before booking.