Iran is pushing to restore direct flights to the UK, as senior aviation and diplomatic officials met to discuss strengthening air transport cooperation between the two nations.
Hossein Pourfarazneh, Iran’s deputy minister of transport and urban development and head of the Civil Aviation Organization (CAO), met on Tuesday with Seyed Ali Mousavi, Iran’s new ambassador to the UK, to explore ways to enhance bilateral aviation ties.
Push for Resuming Iran-UK Direct Flights
During the meeting, Pourfarazneh congratulated Mousavi on his new diplomatic post and emphasized the importance of reestablishing direct flights between Iran and the UK. He urged Iran’s ambassador to raise the issue with British authorities to achieve a positive outcome for travelers and airlines.
Iran and the UK have a longstanding aviation agreement dating back to 1998. Under the most recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in 2016, both countries agreed to permit up to 21 weekly flights between them.
Aviation Ties and Potential Benefits
Restoring direct flights between Iran and the UK would significantly benefit business travelers, tourists, and the Iranian diaspora. Currently, passengers must rely on connecting flights through third countries, leading to longer travel times and higher costs.
If discussions progress positively, Iranian and British airlines could resume non-stop routes, easing travel restrictions and fostering trade, tourism, and diplomatic relations.
As Iran seeks to strengthen international air connectivity, the Civil Aviation Organization continues to push for expanded aviation agreements and flight operations.
