Kerman International Airport (KER): All the Information You Need

Airports create new connections between cities and countries. One of the most important air travel hubs in Iran is Kerman International Airport, which manages approximately 116 domestic and international flights weekly.

If you think you might pass through this airport soon, join us as we share everything we know about Kerman Airport.

History of Kerman Airport

The decision to build an airport in this desert city goes back many years. The first geographical surveys were conducted in 1925 and continued until 1956. Numerous experienced local and international engineers collaborated, and eventually, the construction of Kerman International Airport was completed in 1970.

Soon after, flights and cargo transport between Tehran and Kerman began, initially with just two weekly flights operated by DC6 aircraft. Despite its engineering-based construction, the airport still had room for growth. Therefore, in 1981, engineers decided to begin renovating and resurfacing the main runway, which measures 3,845 meters in length and 60 meters in width. This project was successfully completed in 1990.

In 1983, airport authorities signed a contract with an airport development company to expand the terminal by 1,200 square meters, increasing the total size to 1,800 square meters by 1987.

In 1990, the size of Kerman International Airport grew again, reaching 2,600 square meters with the expansion of the Hajj terminal. This was further expanded to 3,000 square meters by 1993, along with additional amenities added to the terminal.

One interesting story about Kerman Airport involves the current chief of the control tower. During the Bam earthquake, he was the first to use radio frequencies to alert all flights in the area, helping prevent a bigger disaster. He also played a key role in facilitating aid and rescue efforts.

Flights at Kerman International Airport

Kerman Airport, also known as Ayatollah Rafsanjani International Airport, is situated 1,750 meters above sea level. Today, it has two terminals—one for domestic and one for international flights—handling approximately 730,000 passengers annually.

Several airlines operate here, including Iran Air, Zagros, Aseman, Mahan, Kish, and Qeshm Air. Mahan Air in particular uses Kerman as a significant hub.

Domestic Flights at Kerman Airport

All domestic flights have a departure and destination point. Kerman International Airport handles flights to and from various Iranian cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Bandar Abbas, Isfahan, Zahedan, Shiraz, and Kish.

International Flights at Kerman Airport

Kerman Airport also has an international terminal for foreign travel. Additionally, there is a terminal for pilgrimage flights to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, including destinations like Najaf, Karbala, and Mecca.

Recently, flights to Tbilisi have been added to the airport’s international flight offerings. Travelers heading to Dubai can also use the airport’s passenger services.

Facilities at Kerman Airport

Now, let’s discuss the facilities at Kerman International Airport.

Main Hall

The main hall of Kerman Airport offers numerous amenities, including:

• Children’s Room
• Prayer Room
• Emergency Services
• Restrooms
• CIP Lounge
• Post Office
• Smoking Cabin
• Buffet
• Lost & Found
• Restaurants
• Coffee Shops
• Baggage Wrapping Stations
• Shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and decorative stones from Kerman
• Service desks for airlines such as Mahan and Iran Air

In the international terminal, there is a Bank Mellat booth for currency exchange, Bank Melli for duty payments, and a passport office.

Transit Hall

The transit hall also includes prayer rooms, restrooms, and souvenir shops. These facilities are available in both the domestic and international terminals.

Facilities Outside the Airport Building

For travelers who prefer to drive their personal cars to the airport, parking is available. Additionally, taxis stationed outside the airport are ready to take passengers to their desired destinations.

If you’re traveling with a pet, make sure to read the helpful guide on flying with pets.

Hotels Near Kerman International Airport

Whether you’re on a domestic or international trip, you might need to stay at a hotel for a few days. Here are some hotels near Kerman Airport.

Pars Hotel Kerman

Pars Hotel is a five-star hotel near the airport, known for being one of the most beautiful and well-equipped hotels. It is located on Jomhouri Boulevard, at Farhangian Crossroad, approximately 5 minutes from the airport.

• Location on Google Maps

Jahangardi Hotel Kerman

This four-star hotel is highly rated by travelers for its comfortable amenities. It provides easy access to Kerman’s bazaar and some historical sites, like Ganjali Khan Caravanserai. It is just 6 minutes away from the airport.

• Location on Google Maps

Hezar Hotel Kerman

The Hezar Hotel, a three-star hotel, is located in the heart of Kerman, providing easy access to the bazaar, commercial centers, and tourist attractions. It is located near Neshat Park, about 12 minutes from the airport.

• Location on Google Maps

Akhavan Hotel Kerman

This two-star hotel is situated in Azadi Square and offers decent amenities for its price. It is about 10 minutes from the airport.

• Location on Google Maps

Address of Kerman Airport

Kerman Airport is located at the end of Jomhouri Boulevard in Kerman.

• Location on Google Maps