Explanation of the Factors Affecting Users’ Cognitive Maps in Passenger Terminals(Case Study: Terminal of Imam Khomeini International Airport)

| Knowledge of the surroundings as a factor affecting the quality of the mental image plays an important role in navigation by users of airport terminals. However, disregarding the effects of the components on the quality of users’ perception of such places’ design has affected the relationship between users and these places. This study was conducted to answer the following questions: What is the effectiveness of components of the mental image and cognitive map on the optimum navigation by airport terminal users? What are the type and extent of the relationship between these components on the quality of navigation of the users of such places? Explanation of the factors affecting the formation and strengthening of the mental image with a focus on increasing the user quality was the main objective of this study, and making it easier to route public spaces was another objective. To achieve the research objectives, a quantitative strategy was used, relying on library and field studies. Qualitative data were collected based on the study of written references on the perception of the environment, mental images, and cognitive maps, and quantitative data were obtained from a field survey using a questionnaire in the study area. The study results showed that for the ranking, the frame (body), legibility (readability), search for meaning, and attractiveness have been the most effective on the cognitive map, respectively.