Loading map...
XBJ → THR
Which side of the plane to sit from Birjand Airport (Birjand) to Mehrabad International Airport (Teheran)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior due to its perspective of the towering Alborz mountain range and the iconic, snow-capped Mount Damavand, which dominates the horizon during the descent into the Tehran basin.
Khorasan Ranges
Rugged, arid mountain ridges that define the landscape of eastern Iran shortly after takeoff from Birjand.
Semnan Oases
Green pockets of agricultural land and orchards surrounding the city of Semnan amidst the brown desert.
Alborz Mountains
The massive northern mountain wall of Iran, often snow-capped, providing a dramatic backdrop to the flight.
Mount Damavand
On clear days, the perfectly conical peak of Asia's highest volcano is visible to the north-northeast of Tehran.
Tehran Skyline
A dense urban sprawl stretching toward the mountains, featuring landmarks like the Milad Tower during the final approach.
Sit on the right for the best morning light on the Alborz peaks. Mount Damavand is best spotted during the last 15 minutes of the flight; it will appear as a high, triangular silhouette to the north. Use a polarizing filter if taking photos to cut through the frequent haze over Tehran.
Dasht-e Kavir
Breathtaking views of the Great Salt Desert, featuring unique geological patterns and vast, desolate salt flats.
Namak Lake
A massive, shimmering salt lake located south of Tehran that appears as a brilliant white expanse.
Kavir National Park
Aerial perspective of the 'Little Africa' of Iran, showing rugged desert terrain and dry riverbeds.
Garmsar Railway
The historic Trans-Iranian Railway snaking through the arid landscape near the edge of the desert.
Ancient City of Rey
As the plane enters the Tehran approach, the historic southern district of Rey and its industrial zones are visible.
Look out early for the intricate 'wrinkles' of the desert floor. This side is particularly striking at sunset when the salt flats reflect deep orange and purple hues. Keep an eye out for the white crust of Namak Lake about 20 minutes before landing.
Distance: 793 km (493 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: XBJ (32.898101806640625, 59.2661018371582)
Arrival: THR (35.68920135498047, 51.31340026855469)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.