Iran is trying to re-engage with the global economy after years under crushing sanctions, and its airports will be important links to the outside world.
Tehran-Mehrabad was once the airport for all major flights into and out of Iran's capital. Since 2004, the airport has handled mostly domestic flights, while international travelers have been routed primarily through the newer Tehran Imam Khomeini airport.
Mehrabad is centrally located within the sprawling metropolis of Tehran, and the airport gives a little of the flavor of the country itself. CNBC recently reported from on the ground in Iran, and our team there captured images from the air hub. Click ahead for what Tehran-Mehrabad looks like from the inside.
— Posted 27 April 2016 by Ted Kemp. Reporting by CNBC's Michelle Caruso-Cabrera.
Islamic Republic Hangar
A plane rests on the tarmac in front of a hangar.
US-made hardware
An Iranian military transport plane is a U.S.-made C-130 Hercules. The United States was the primary arms supplier to Iran into the 1970s, before an Islamic revolution overtook the country.
'Intellectual and Educational Games'
Travelers window-shop for games and books.
'Bag and Shoe'
Two small shops at Tehran-Mehrabad.
Barber shop
A slow day for one Iranian barber.
Airport shoeshine
A scene familiar in airports around the world repeats itself in Iran.
Airport ticket counter
Checking in
Samsung and the Ayatollah
An ad for Samsung includes images of Ayatollah Khomeini, who led the revolution of 1979. This image is from Kharg Airport in Iran.
Contribution box
Translated from Persian, a contribution box says, "Cancer not only causes pain, but also financial hardship."
Islamic Republic aircraft
An airliner bears Islamic Republic of Iran markings.
Airport waiting area
Sweets from Turkey
A shop specializes in Turkish baklava.
On the job at the sweets shop
A man waits at the register inside a baklava shop.