We recommend at least 55 minutes for a comfortable connection at Imam Khomeini International Airport. The minimum connection time is 40 minutes for domestic flights and 75 minutes for international flights. Transit between terminals takes up to 30 minutes.

Domestic-to-Domestic: 40 min. Domestic-to-International: 55 min. International-to-Domestic: 60 min. International-to-International: 75 min. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell at Imam Khomeini International Airport.

Imam Khomeini International Airport is Tehran's primary hub for long-haul and international traffic, located 40 km southwest of the city center. Connections are moderately challenging due to the large terminal footprint, distance between zones, and mandatory security re-screening for all transit passengers regardless of baggage status. The airport handles significant transfer traffic for regional and intercontinental routes, but procedural requirements and layout complexity add friction to short connections. Terminals 1 and 2 are connected by internal airside shuttle buses and limited walking access through secure corridors; the shuttle typically runs every 10–15 minutes during peak hours. All connecting passengers must pass through dedicated security re-screening checkpoints between terminals, even for airside transfers, which adds 15–25 minutes to the transit process. No train or automated people-mover exists; passengers rely on bus shuttles or walking long distances, making the connection experience time-consuming and unpredictable.

30 minutes leaves only 5–10 minutes after security for gate access and boarding, creating an unacceptable miss rate. See full 30 min guide →

45 minutes is tight for domestic–domestic and marginal for domestic–international; weather, queue length, or gate distance can easily consume the buffer. See full 45 min guide →

60 minutes exceeds international–domestic MCT and provides a reasonable safety margin for all security and transfer contingencies. See full 1 hr guide →

75 minutes meets or exceeds all MCT categories (international–international) and accommodates normal delays, gate reassignments, and procedural variation. See full 1¼ hr guide →

90 minutes is a comfortable connection time at IKA and allows for moderate queue delays, gate distance, or minor flight disruptions. See full 1½ hr guide →

120 minutes is well above all IKA MCTs and offers confidence even during busy periods or with unfamiliar terminal layouts. See full 2 hr guide →

150 minutes allows time for a restroom visit, light refreshment, or unexpected gate changes without connection stress. See full 2½ hr guide →

180 minutes provides ample time for connections, brief terminal exploration, and buffer for significant operational delays. See full 3 hr guide →

240 minutes is well beyond any practical connection need at IKA and permits a meal, rest, or handling of minor disruptions. See full 4 hr guide →