Iran is implementing stricter regulations on its airspace
Iran has once again tightened its airspace restrictions, closing the central and western parts of its airspace to international overflights, following "security checks in the current situation"[1][2]. This decision comes after a brief reopening of the airspace on June 20, following a closure that began on June 13 during Israeli attacks[1][2].
The repercussions of this closure are far-reaching, with the main airport in Tehran remaining closed to international flights, a situation expected to persist until at least Thursday, 2 p.m. local time[1][2]. Only a few isolated flights have been recorded in the eastern parts of Iran, indicating very limited air traffic[1][2].
In response to these closures, international airlines have been rerouting their flights around Iranian airspace, with increased traffic over Saudi Arabia, the Caspian Sea corridor (via Turkiye, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan), and southern routes through the Red Sea and Saudi Arabia to avoid the risks in Iranian airspace[4].
The exact reasons for the reversal of air traffic relaxations are not specified in the text, but the closure is due to ongoing security concerns, despite a ceasefire between Israel and Iran that has been in effect for nearly a week as of June 20[1][2].
It is important to note that the airspace closure applies to overflights, not necessarily domestic flights within Iran. The SNN broadcaster reported this information, citing a ministry spokesman[1].
As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for travellers to stay informed about the status of air traffic in Iran and to plan their journeys accordingly. The French authorities have issued advisories requesting French carriers not to enter Iranian airspace due to security concerns, a restriction valid until late July 2025[3].
Sources: [1] SNN Broadcaster [2] Reuters [3] French Civil Aviation Authority [4] FlightAware
- The ongoing closure of Iranian airspace due to war-and-conflicts is causing a shift in international airline routes, with more flights being rerouted over Saudi Arabia, the Caspian Sea corridor, and southern routes.
- While the specific reasons for the tightened airspace restrictions remain unclear, these restrictions are being made in light of ongoing politics and security concerns, despite a recent ceasefire between Iran and Israel.
