Iran is trying to maintain its international air services despite new U.S. sanctions. According to Iran’s civil aviation authority, international flights operated by Iranian airlines are continuing as scheduled.
“So far, none of the international flights operated by Iranian airlines have been cancelled,”
Said Majid Akhavan, a spokesperson for Iran’s civil aviation authority, to the news agency ISNA on Tuesday. His statement contradicts reports of impending restrictions on international air traffic.
Iran Air sees no changes for now
The state-owned airline Iran Air also said it had not received any instructions to suspend its international services. According to the airline, the aviation authorities of Turkey, Iraq and Azerbaijan have not issued any such orders.
The affected routes include flights to Istanbul, Najaf and Baku. Should the situation change, Iran Air said it would inform passengers through its official communication channels.
US threatens exclusion from dollar system
The United States plans to significantly increase pressure on Iranian airlines. On Monday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC that “all Iranian airlines worldwide” would be shut down from Wednesday.
Washington is also putting pressure on third countries and companies. Businesses that provide fuel to Iranian aircraft, grant them landing rights or sell tickets for their flights could risk losing access to the U.S.dollar system, according to the U.S. government.
Two weeks ago, the U.S. Treasury Department had already imposed new sanctions on Iran’s aviation sector. According to the US sanctions authority OFAC, the measures target 27 Iranian airlines as well as foreign companies accused of supporting Iran’s aviation industry.
Economic pressure on several sectors
The measures are part of the U.S. campaign known as “Operation Economic Outcast”. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump aims to further isolate Iran economically.
The campaign targets several sectors beyond aviation, including digital assets, technology, gold and shipping. According to the U.S. Treasury Department, nearly 60 individuals, companies and vessels in several countries were sanctioned when the campaign was launched.
Impact on air traffic
The first effects are already becoming visible. Turkish Airlines has reportedly suspended all flights to Iran until at least March 2027, according to Iran International. Reports from Iraq also indicate that Iranian airlines will no longer be allowed to operate there as a result of the U.S. measures.
Iran’s aviation industry has been under U.S. sanctions for years. These restrictions make it difficult for Iranian airlines to purchase new aircraft and obtain spare parts and maintenance services.
