Flying from Dubai to Shiraz aboard Iran Air

An Iran Air Airbus A321. Photo / Getty Images

Nick Liefting flies from Dubai to Shiraz aboard Iran Air, flight IR657.

The plane: An Airbus A320.

Class: Economy.

Price: Return ticket from Dubai to Shiraz cost $375.

Seat: 25C.

Fellow passengers: Mainly Iranians.

Capacity: The last four rows were vacant.

Flight time: One hour.

Entertainment: Not necessary on a one-hour flight.

Service: Pleasant. They gave out water and lollies before take-off. The cabin crew wore black trousers with black coats to below the knee, buttoned up. Heads were completely covered in black veils tucked into the top, with only the face visible. Pastel-coloured tassels from both ear positions hung down. All with gold buttons and trim and looked very smart.

Food and drink: Full meal as if on a long-haul flight. I had to be quick to hoover it down as the plane soon began descending. They served only soft drinks — no alcohol — as Iran is a dry country.

Toilets: Clean and tidy.

Luggage: 30kg check-in, can be two pieces. I was 5kg over and they weren't concerned. I was travelling with a bicycle, which was oversize, but there were no extra costs. There were no signs indicating carry-on weight or size.

Airport experience: Shiraz Airport is small with only one gate, and processing was very smooth and quick. I had to quickly change from short pants to longs.

Would I fly this again? Yes, no problem at all.