All operations for Iranian airlines will be stopped worldwide starting Wednesday, September 23.
This comes after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new sanctions targeting Iran’s civil aviation network as part of a plan called “Operation Economic Fury.”
These measures will prevent Iranian airlines from using international airport services, getting fuel, and accessing financial systems around the globe.
Here’s how these sanctions can affect flights:
- No Fuel or Ground Services: Airports and service companies will not be allowed to refuel Iranian planes or provide help with landing, ticketing, or maintenance.
- Banking Restrictions: Any international company or airport operator assisting an Iranian airline could be cut off from using U.S. dollar transactions or from American banks.
- Supply Chain Targets: The U.S. Treasury is also cracking down on foreign companies that provide parts or logistics for Iranian flights.
“You can’t give them fuel when they land,” Bessent explained.
“You can’t provide landing services, and you can’t even sell them a ticket—otherwise, we would be cut off from the dollar system.”
— Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary
Wider Impact and Travel Issues
These aviation sanctions mark a significant increase in pressure on Tehran. Major airlines like Iran Air and Mahan Air, as well as smaller local carriers, will face a complete stop of international long-haul and regional flights.
Airports in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe are now changing flight schedules and preparing to refuse services for Iranian commercial flights.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke before addressing the UN General Assembly in New York, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for an emergency cabinet meeting regarding tensions with Tehran.
“We don’t want war, but we won’t back down from economic pressure,” he stated.