Huge explosions rock Iran's Mehrabad Airport amid Israeli strikes
Iranian state media confirmed that sections of the airport were targeted
Reports and eyewitness accounts indicate a large-scale attack on Mehrabad Airport, Iran's busiest domestic airport, located within Tehran. Social media footage showed explosions, burning aircraft, and large plumes of smoke rising from the facility.
Iranian state media confirmed that sections of the airport were targeted, says he BBC.
The strike follows an announcement from the Israeli military regarding a "broad-scale new wave of strikes." On 4 March, Israel carried out an operation at Mehrabad Airport aimed at dismantling defense systems and a helicopter manufacturing section. Witnesses said the latest bombardment appeared significantly more intense than the earlier attack.
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While Mehrabad primarily handles domestic flights, its location within Tehran makes it a critical piece of Iran's infrastructure.
According to a CNN report, Mehrabad Airport, opened in 1938 and located near the city centre, continues to serve as a key domestic hub.
While most international flights have moved to Imam Khomeini International Airport since 2004, Mehrabad remains critical to Iran's domestic air network.
A frequent traveller described Mehrabad as Tehran's "first real international airport," recalling memories of families welcoming and saying goodbye to loved ones.
She added that, despite being outdated, the airport was beloved by passengers and staff, who took pride in their work.
Mehrabad handles multiple domestic destinations, including Mashhad, Ahvaz, and Shiraz, with 94, 69, and 51 weekly flights, respectively, according to Flightradar24. Other popular routes include Kish Island, Tabriz, and Kerman.
