Iran Airtour

Iran Airtour: Iran's Charter and Domestic Specialist

Iran Airtour (IATA: B9, ICAO: IRB), legally known as Iran Air Tours Company, is a prominent Iranian airline specializing in charter flights, domestic scheduled services, and regional routes. Founded in 1973 as a subsidiary of national carrier Iran Air, it initially focused on tourism and pilgrimage charters. The airline became more independent in the 1990s, with operations centering in Mashhad from 1992, evolving into a key player for affordable domestic travel and holiday packages.

Headquartered in Tehran, Iran Airtour primarily operates from Tehran Mehrabad International Airport (THR), with significant presence at Mashhad (MHD) and other domestic hubs. Its network spans numerous Iranian cities, emphasizing short-haul domestic routes, while offering seasonal charters to Middle Eastern destinations, Europe (e.g., new Tehran-Paris service in 2025), and Asia like Kuala Lumpur. As a non-aligned carrier outside major alliances, it caters to budget-conscious pilgrims, tourists, and locals amid international sanctions limiting fleet modernization.

What sets Iran Airtour apart is its operation of rare, aging Western aircraft like Airbus A300/A310 classics and McDonnell Douglas MD-80 family jets, averaging over 33 years old—a testament to sanctions' impact but also skilled maintenance for safety (rated highly at 5/7 by AirlineRatings). Passenger feedback highlights decent crew service (3.5-4/5) and value, though entertainment and WiFi lag (under 2.5/5) due to older cabins. Meals receive mixed praise (3-4/5), with comfort adequate for short hops.

Despite challenges, Iran Airtour remains vital for Iran's aviation, providing essential connectivity with a fleet of ~18 aircraft. Its low-cost hybrid model prioritizes affordability over frills, making it a go-to for Hajj/Umrah flights and domestic hops.