Iran has reopened central and western airspace corridors to international transit flights, signaling cautious progress in restoring aviation operations after recent regional tensions. The Ministry of Roads and Urban Development confirmed the decision Saturday following security evaluations by Iran's Civil Aviation Organization (CAO).
Ministry spokesperson Majid Akhavan emphasized that while transit flights may now use these routes, no takeoffs or landings will occur at airports in northern, southern, or western regions until at least Sunday afternoon. The CAO separately noted that eastern airspace had already resumed operations for domestic and international flights earlier this week.
This phased reopening comes three days after a ceasefire ended 12 days of aerial exchanges between Iran and Israel, which prompted the initial airspace closure on June 13. Aviation analysts suggest the measured approach balances economic needs with ongoing security considerations, particularly near sensitive border areas.
The development offers relief to global airlines seeking optimized Middle Eastern flight paths, though carriers are advised to monitor updates as remaining airspace restrictions lift gradually. With Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport still under limited operations, regional connectivity remains partial as diplomatic efforts continue.
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Iran reopens central, western airspace to intl transit flights
cgtn.com