WANA (Apr 21) – The CEO of the Iran Airports and Air Navigation Company (IAC) has announced plans to resume international flights to Turkey and Muscat, emphasizing that ensuring absolute safety remains the primary condition for reopening the nation’s airways.

 

Gradual Reopening of Airspace

Mohammad Amirani, CEO of the IAC, stated in a recent interview that domestic airports are being gradually prepared for a return to normal operations. He noted that once safety conditions are met and necessary permits are secured, international routes to Turkey and Oman will be reinstated.

 

In a recent high-level meeting with Air Defense officials, Amirani underscored that total safety is the “most important prerequisite” for reopening airports and integrating the aviation network back into the operational cycle.

 

Operational Status of Regional Airports

According to the CEO, several key hubs are already showing readiness:

  • Mehrabad Airport: Ready to resume with a limited number of flights.
  • Air Traffic Control: The national airspace control center is fully prepared to provide navigation services.
  • Kerman & Yazd Airports: As of today (April 21, 2026), these airports have become operational following the issuance of a NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions).

 

International Routes and Expansion

Regarding international travel, Amirani detailed the following plans:

  • Imam Khomeini International: Scheduled to establish flights to Muscat and Turkey.
  • Mashhad Airport: Plans for a Mashhad–Muscat route are currently under review.

 

Amirani concluded by clarifying that the reopening of additional airports is strictly contingent upon permits from the Civil Aviation Organization (CAO). He reiterated that the full restoration of flight schedules depends entirely on the country’s general conditions and the fulfillment of all rigorous safety and operational requirements.