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US Sanctions Choke Iranian Airlines: Baghdad, Muscat Flights Cancelled From Midnight
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News18•23-09-2026, 00:29
US Sanctions Choke Iranian Airlines: Baghdad, Muscat Flights Cancelled From Midnight
- •New US sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector have led to the cancellation of flights from Iran to Baghdad and Muscat starting midnight.
- •Iranian media reported that Baghdad and Muscat airports will no longer accept flights operated by Iranian airlines, adding to disruptions for Iran's international air links.
- •Flights to other international destinations, including Istanbul, are currently scheduled to continue, while discussions are underway to redirect Baghdad flights to Najaf for pilgrims.
- •Travel agencies in Iraq fear major disruption, with many considering land routes as an alternative, despite longer travel times and difficulties for elderly or medical passengers.
- •The US Treasury has expanded sanctions against Iran's aviation sector, accusing it of transporting weapons and illicit cargo, warning foreign companies of penalties for providing services to Iranian airlines.
Key Questions Answered
Flights from Iran to the capitals of Iraq (Baghdad) and Oman (Muscat) were cancelled starting from midnight after new US sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector came into effect.
The US Treasury placed 27 Iranian airlines on its Specially Designated List because the sector has historically been utilized by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to transport weapons, personnel, and illicit cargo.
Foreign companies providing services such as jet fuel, ground handling, ticketing, maintenance, and payment of landing fees face severe US penalties and the risk of being cut off from the financial system.
