Tehran Aerospace Exhibition Center

A Boeing 727 that once belonged to the sister of the Shah. flosi (Atlas Obscura User)

More a plane cemetery than an exhibition center, Iran’s Tehran Aerospace Exhibition Center hosts a number of old and rare planes that once were the glory of Persian aviation.

Most of the aircraft are in bad shape, though some can be entered. Stepping inside these retired planes gives you a glimpse of aviation’s past, complete with luxurious interiors outfitted in retro color schemes.

Among the exhibited planes is a Boeing 727 that once belonged to the sister of the Shah. Unfortunately, its interior has been scrapped in recent years. Other models include a former Iran Air Cargo Boeing 747, some Boeing 737s, a Lockheed L-1011 Tristar, and some smaller planes like Aero Commanders, Cessnas, and Pipers alongside rare plane types.

A small exhibition hall shows a tiny glimpse into Iranian aviation history, but is also mostly neglected. The restaurant next door, Talar-e Havaiee, is located in a grounded jetliner, but often closed.

Know Before You Go

The park is located close to Mehrabad airport, at a large motorway. It can be tricky to find, as most taxi drivers won’t know where it is. The Persian name is “نمایشگاه هوایی تهران”, and coordinates are 35°42'47"N 51°17'35"E. The closest metro station is Ekbatan. Opening hours are Saturday to Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., admission is 5000 rial. You usually have to be accompanied by a guide who will be assigned to you at the entrance (prepare to wait).