Mehrabad in 1979

In early 1979, Mehrabad Airport in Tehran became a scene of intense uncertainty, fear, and desperation as thousands of sought to flee the country amidst the chaos of the Revolution. The fall of the Pahlavi regime and the rapid rise of revolutionary forces created a climate of political instability, pushing many—especially those connected to the monarchy, Western interests, or liberal intellectual circles—to escape before the new order took hold.

Families, businesspeople, former government officials, artists, journalists, and members of the military gathered at the terminal in scenes marked by long lines, tearful goodbyes, and uncertainty over whether they would be allowed to board flights.

June 20, 2025 | 7:03 pm