Loading map...
TBZ → MHD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tabriz International Airport (Tabriz) to Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side (North) provides the most dramatic views of the towering Alborz mountain range, including the iconic snow-capped peak of Mount Damavand and glimpses of the lush greenery characteristic of the Caspian region.
Mount Sabalan
Shortly after takeoff, look north to see this dormant stratovolcano, the third-highest peak in Iran, often capped with snow.
Alborz Mountain Range
The flight parallels this massive range, offering a continuous view of jagged peaks that separate the Iranian plateau from the Caspian Sea.
Mount Damavand
The highlight of the trip; this perfectly shaped volcanic cone is the highest peak in the Middle East and is visible mid-flight.
Hyrcanian Forests
On clear days, you can see the northern slopes of the mountains covered in dense, ancient green forests that contrast sharply with the arid interior.
Caspian Sea Cloud Deck
A frequent sight where a sea of clouds is trapped against the northern face of the Alborz, creating a striking white 'ocean'.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to see the sun illuminating the eastern faces of the Alborz peaks. Mount Damavand usually appears about 40-50 minutes into the flight. Dust and haze are less common on this side compared to the desert side to the south.
Sahand Mountain
Visible immediately after departure from Tabriz, this massive volcanic highland is known for its multiple craters and green pastures.
Dasht-e Kavir Margins
The southern view looks out over the edge of the Great Salt Desert, featuring vast, shimmering golden and ochre expanses.
Salt Lakes and Flats
Notice the bright white patches of seasonal salt lakes and 'kavirs' that dot the landscape between Tehran and Semnan.
Semnan and Damghan
The flight path passes near these historic Silk Road cities, identifiable by their oasis-like green patches amidst the brown desert.
Binalud Mountains
During the descent into Mashhad, these mountains appear to the south, marking the final high-altitude terrain before landing.
The right side is excellent for photographers interested in abstract desert patterns and geology. However, be aware that afternoon flights can suffer from significant glare and heat haze when looking south toward the desert sun.
Distance: 1,205 km (749 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: TBZ (38.1338996887207, 46.23500061035156)
Arrival: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.