Iran has filed a complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) over US restrictions affecting its aviation sector, according to the head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization.
Abuzar Shiroudi told Iran’s official IRNA news agency on Monday that Tehran had submitted supporting documents as part of its complaint and was pursuing legal and diplomatic efforts aimed at lifting the restrictions and restoring previously operated air routes.
The complaint comes amid growing disruptions to Iran’s international air connectivity following the introduction of new US sanctions targeting the country’s aviation sector.
According to Shiroudi, direct flights from Iran to European destinations are facing restrictions, forcing travelers to seek alternative routes through regional aviation hubs.
He identified Istanbul as one of the main transit points being used by Iranian passengers seeking to reach European destinations.
Regional Flight Suspensions
The aviation restrictions have also affected Iran’s connections with several neighboring countries.
Iraq, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates have recently suspended flights to and from Iran following the introduction of the new US sanctions affecting Iran’s aviation industry.
The suspension of services has created additional challenges for Iranian travelers and airlines, particularly those relying on regional routes to maintain international connections.
Iranian authorities have been seeking alternative arrangements with neighboring countries in an effort to maintain some air links.
Iran and Iraq, for example, held discussions about operating flights between Tehran and Najaf as an alternative to flights between Tehran and Baghdad.
However, the proposed Tehran–Najaf service was subsequently canceled as well, further reducing available air connections between the two countries.
Iran Pursues Legal and Diplomatic Measures
The complaint to ICAO represents part of Tehran’s broader efforts to challenge the restrictions through international legal and diplomatic channels.
Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization says it has provided documents supporting its case and is seeking the restoration of routes that were previously operated.
The developments highlight the wider impact that sanctions and aviation restrictions can have on international air transportation, including passenger travel, airline operations and connections between countries.
ICAO, a United Nations specialized agency responsible for international civil aviation, provides a framework for cooperation among states on matters relating to aviation and international air transport.
Iran’s appeal to the organization comes as the country faces increasing difficulties maintaining direct and regional air links following the latest sanctions.
For Iranian travelers, the restrictions have resulted in greater reliance on indirect routes, including connections through major regional hubs such as Istanbul.
The situation remains subject to further diplomatic and regulatory developments, with Tehran continuing to pursue efforts aimed at restoring its international aviation connections and challenging the restrictions through available international mechanisms.
