Iran airlines cancel flights as US sanctions hit

Iranian airlines faced cancellation of some international flights after the US tightened sanctions on Iran's aviation industry. The new measures, announced by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday, were part of a broader effort to economically cripple Iran following a nearly seven-month war. Although some routes, including China, remained open, the impact of the restrictions on Iran's aviation sector remains uncertain.

FlightRadar24 data showed a flight from Tehran to Guangzhou, one of Iran's biggest carriers, Mahan Air, still operated as scheduled. However, a travel agent in Tehran reported suspensions of flights to Baghdad, Muscat, Qatar, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, while other destinations, including Turkey, Armenia, Iraq, and the UAE, maintained their operations.

Iran's aviation authorities discussed rerouting Baghdad flights to Najaf, a key destination for Iranian pilgrims. Iraq's government, while not officially announcing compliance, reportedly planned to enforce the US measures, causing concerns for Iraqi travel agents. In Najaf, many travel companies relied on flights to Iranian airports, leaving clients considering alternative land routes due to the unstable situation and potential cancellations.