Iranian Airlines Cancel Some International Flights as US Sanctions Take Effect

Iranian airlines cancelled some international services on Wednesday, 23 September, as tighter US restrictions on the country’s aviation sector took effect. The disruption affected several routes, although flights to other destinations continued or remained scheduled.

Georgia and Azerbaijan confirmed suspensions of Iranian flights, according to AFP. A travel agent in Tehran told the news agency that services to Baghdad, Muscat and Qatar had also been halted. Iran’s civil aviation authorities separately reported cancellations to Baghdad and Muscat. The status of individual flights may change as airlines and airports respond to the measures.

The US Treasury designated 27 Iranian airlines on 8 September and targeted companies providing aviation support. Washington says some service providers and financial institutions dealing with designated carriers may face sanctions exposure. The restrictions increase pressure on airlines that depend on overseas airports, ground handling, ticket sales and other services.

The measures have not stopped every Iranian international flight. AFP reported that a Mahan Air flight reached Guangzhou, China, on Wednesday. Flights to Dubai and Najaf were also listed as scheduled at the time of its report, while some services to Istanbul were still available. A scheduled service is not confirmation that it ultimately operated.

For travellers, the immediate issue is uncertainty on specific routes. Passengers with upcoming bookings should check directly with their airline and departure airport before travelling, and confirm any rebooking or refund options if a flight is cancelled.