Can the US ban Iranian airlines worldwide – and what would it mean?
Summary
The United States plans to block all Iranian airlines from flying internationally starting September 23. This move aims to stop companies from giving fuel, landing services, or tickets to Iranian airlines, further isolating Iran’s aviation sector. The U.S. says this is part of a broader effort to hurt Iran’s economy.Key Facts
- U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that all Iranian airlines will be banned worldwide from September 23.
- The sanctions target not only airlines but also companies providing fuel, landing services, or selling tickets to Iranian airlines.
- The main Iranian carriers affected are Mahan Air, Iran Air (state-owned), and Qeshm Air.
- Mahan Air recently stopped flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Muscat following earlier U.S. sanctions on companies supporting Iran’s aviation sector.
- Iran Air now flies only to a few international cities, mainly in Iraq and Istanbul, due to sanctions and conflicts.
- Iranian airlines have faced damage to aircraft and worsening conditions amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran.
- In 2025, over 11 million international passengers flew from Iran, with most using foreign carriers; international flight capacity has dropped nearly 50% by August 2026.
- The U.S. considers Iranian airlines part of Iran’s efforts to move weapons and personnel internationally.
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