The present invention relates to surface catalyzed ion transport membranes which demonstrate superior oxygen flux. The membranes comprise a dense multicomponent metallic oxide layer having a first surface and a second surface wherein the first surface is coated with a catalyst such as a metal or an oxide of a metal selected from Groups II, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XV and the F Block lanthanides of the Periodic Table of the Elements. One or more porous layers formed from a mixed conducting multicomponent metallic oxide or a material which is not mixed conducting under process operating conditions may be formed contiguous to the second surface of the dense layer. The claimed membranes are capable of separating oxygen from oxygen-containing gaseous mixtures.