Iran partially reopens airspace for international transit flights

Tehran: Iran has begun a cautious reopening of its airspace, allowing international transit flights to pass through the eastern section of the country for the first time in several weeks, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Iran.

In an official statement, the authority confirmed that “air routes in the eastern section of the country's airspace are open for international flights transiting through Iran”. It also noted that some airports resumed operations from 7 am local time (0330 GMT).

Despite the announcement, flight tracking platforms indicated only limited activity, with many international airlines continuing to avoid Iranian airspace and instead opting for longer alternative routes.

Operations restart at key airports

Reports from multiple media outlets suggest that operations have restarted at six airports, pointing to a gradual return of aviation activity even as regional tensions remain high.

According to the Association of Iranian Airlines, the airports currently functioning include Imam Khomeini International Airport and Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran, along with facilities in Mashhad, Birjand, Gorgan and Zahedan.

Airlines prepare to resume services

Airlines are now making preparations to restart both domestic and international operations. Iran’s Tasnim news agency quoted the association’s secretary as saying that carriers are ready to resume flights.

Airspace closure linked to conflict

The reopening comes as a fragile ceasefire continues in the wider conflict involving the United States and Israel. Iran had shut its airspace after strikes by US and Israeli forces began on February 28.

Limited flight activity observed

According to Al Jazeera, flight radar data showed at least two aircraft crossing Iranian airspace in recent hours following the partial reopening. This development is being seen as an early sign of a return to normal operations.

Damage and caution remain

The area around Mehrabad airport had experienced heavy bombardment during the 40-day conflict involving US and Israeli strikes. Its continued operation is considered significant given the extent of infrastructure damage.

Al Jazeera, citing local sources, reported that while airlines are preparing to resume services, the situation remains delicate. Further flight activity is expected to be closely monitored as conditions evolve.