โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Shahrekord Airport (CQD/OIFS) is a significant regional aviation facility located in the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province of southwestern Iran, serving the city of Shahrekord. Situated at an elevation of over 2,049 meters (6,722 feet) above sea level, it is one of the highest airports in the country, earning Shahrekord the title of the 'Roof of Iran.' The airport plays a vital role in supporting regional commerce, governmental services, and the local tourism industry, providing a key air link for the mountainous province.
The terminal building is a functional and well-maintained facility designed to manage the regional passenger volume efficiently in the high-altitude environment. Inside, travelers will find a unified departures and arrivals hall, which includes basic check-in counters and a sheltered waiting area with seating. Amenities at the airport are focused on the essentials, such as clean restroom facilities and general information signage. Due to its regional focus and smaller scale, there are no extensive retail shops or diverse dining options available on-site, so visitors are encouraged to make any necessary food or supply purchases in the city center of Shahrekord before their flight.
Operational capacity at Shahrekord Airport is supported by a single paved runway (16/34) measuring approximately 3,005 meters in length, which is capable of handling narrow-body commercial jets and various regional aircraft. Navigation through the terminal is exceptionally easy due to its compact and logical layout. For ground transportation, the airport is located about 10 kilometers from the city center, with taxi services and private vehicle transfers readily available to transport visitors to their final destination or to explore the province's stunning mountain landscapes and natural springs.
๐ Connection Tips
Shahrekord Airport (CQD) is notable for being the highest airport in Iran, situated at an elevation of 2,049 meters, and 'connecting' through this facility is defined by its role as a regional gateway to the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. Most passengers arriving at CQD are connecting from major Iranian hubs, primarily Tehran's Mehrabad Airport (THR). If your journey involves an international arrival at Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) followed by a domestic flight to Shahrekord, you must allow at least 4 to 5 hours for the transfer between IKA and THR, which are located on opposite sides of the capital. This transition requires clearing customs and immigration at IKA before a taxi or shuttle ride to the domestic terminal. Due to CQD's high-altitude location, flight schedules can be sensitive to mountain weather patterns; afternoon winds or low visibility can occasionally lead to delays, so it is recommended to build a half-day buffer into your travel plans. For those connecting to onward ground transportation, official airport taxis are available for the 10-kilometer trip to the Shahrekord city center, which typically takes about 15 minutes. Many international travelers choose to fly into Isfahan International Airport (IFN), located about 100 kilometers away, as it offers more frequent connections and acts as a common alternative gateway for the region. The terminal at CQD is a functional, single-building facility with unified arrival and departure zones, making navigation effortless. Amenities are minimal, so handle major dining or banking needs before arriving. Always confirm your flight status directly with the airline, as regional schedules in southwestern Iran can be flexible and subject to change based on seasonal demand.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
40
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Ardabil Airport (ADU), with ICAO code OITL, is a public airport located northeast of Ardabil, in northwestern Iran. It serves as a regional gateway, handling both domestic and limited international flights, particularly for the city of Ardabil and its surrounding province. The airport operates from a single, compact passenger terminal designed for efficient navigation, accommodating both domestic and international arrivals and departures within the same building. This integrated layout simplifies the travel experience for passengers.
The terminal provides essential facilities for travelers, including small cafes, snack bars, and kiosks offering newspapers, souvenirs, and travel necessities. Amenities also include an on-site ticket counter, a gift shop, a souvenir shop, and medical facilities. For added comfort, an airport lounge is available. The airport is equipped with free and convenient parking for both short-term and long-term needs, situated directly adjacent to the terminal.
Security procedures at ADU adhere to national regulations for regional airports, involving standard screening protocols for both carry-on and checked baggage, along with personal checks. The airport generally experiences short wait times at security checkpoints due to its moderate passenger volume. For international flights, customs services are available, and passengers undergo standard passport control and customs declaration procedures. An Instrument Landing System (ILS) was installed in 2015 to help reduce flight cancellations due to weather.
๐ Connection Tips
Ardabil Airport (ADU) primarily offers domestic flights to major Iranian cities. As of February 2026, direct flights are available to Tehran (THR) and Mashhad (MHD). Airlines such as ATA Airlines, Iran Air, Iran Aseman Airlines, Mahan Air, Pouya Air, and Zagros Airlines operate from Ardabil. Historically, seasonal international flights to destinations like Jeddah, Medina, and Najaf have also been offered, although these are less frequent.\n\nFor international travel, passengers from ADU will typically need to connect through a major international airport in Iran, such as Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran. When planning such connections, especially from a regional airport like ADU to a major hub, it is essential to allow ample transfer time. For domestic-to-domestic connections within Iran, a minimum of 60-90 minutes is usually sufficient. However, for connections involving an international flight, a more generous buffer of 2.5 to 3 hours is highly recommended to account for potential delays, baggage claim, and re-check-in procedures at the larger international airport.\n\nGround transportation from Ardabil Airport to the city center, approximately 16-17 kilometers (10 miles) away, is readily available. Travel to the city center typically takes 20 to 30 minutes by taxi or private transfer. City bus lines and taxis are available, providing convenient options for reaching various parts of Ardabil. The airport is located at an elevation of over 1,300 meters, which contributes to clean air and often cooler temperatures.
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