11/28/2025
Iran Air was considered one of the most modern and respected airlines in the Middle East. During the 1960s and 1970s, Iran experienced a period of rapid modernization under the Shah, and Iran Air (nicknamed “Homa”) became a symbol of that transformation. Its fleet expanded quickly, its routes stretched across Europe, Asia, and North America, and its uniforms followed contemporary Western fashion trends of the era.
Flight attendants like the one pictured here represented a global-facing Iran, one that embraced tourism, international travel, and a more open cultural atmosphere. The airline operated new Boeing jets, partnered with major carriers, and was known for high safety ratings and polished service standards.
Everything changed in 1979. After the revolution, Iran Air continued operating but shifted to reflect the new government’s expectations and cultural rules. Dress codes, routes, and partnerships were all reshaped by the country’s changing political landscape.
Added fact
At its peak in the 1970s, Iran Air operated one of the world’s longest nonstop flights: Tehran to New York, a route that stretched nearly 5,900 miles.
