The US has warned that Iranian airlines will face a global shutdown from September 23, while foreign companies supporting them could face secondary sanctions.
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The US government announced that Iranian airlines would not be allowed to fly anywhere in the world starting September 23 because of increased US sanctions on Iran’s aviation industry.
According to Scott Bessent, US Treasury Secretary, if any country or company provides services such as fuel, landing services, or tickets to Iranian flights, they can also be subject to US dollar sanctions.
US Targets Iranian Airlines through Secondary Sanctions
Secondary sanctions will give the US government grounds to sanction foreign businesses that engage in specific business transactions with individuals or corporations that have been subject to US sanctions. In this case, secondary sanctions can hit airports, airlines, fuel suppliers, airline ground handlers, airline ticket agents, financial institutions, and other aviation service providers.
According to Bessent, companies providing services to Iranian airlines would be penalized for offering fuel, landing facilities, or ticket sales.
The US Treasury has issued an alert regarding the potential threat of sanctions being imposed on organisations that support Iran’s aviation industry under its Operation Economic Outcast.
27 Iranian Airlines Named in US Treasury Action
On September 8, 27 Iranian airlines were designated by the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control as part of an effort to target Iran’s aviation industry. According to the Treasury, the airlines were engaged in activities such as the procurement and transportation of arms, as well as the transportation of personnel.
The designated airlines include Air Shiraz, Iran Aseman Airlines, Kish Airlines, Qeshm Air, Saha Airlines, Sepehran Airlines, Taban Airlines, Varesh Airlines, and Zagros Airlines.
Why Is the US Targeting Iranian Airlines?
As per the US Treasury, Iranian commercial airlines have been utilised by the Iranian government and IRGC to carry weapons, personnel, and contraband items. The US Treasury has also accused Iranian networks of acquiring aircraft and sensitive technology using front companies and third-country intermediaries.
Therefore, the latest move does not stop at Iranian airlines alone. By imposing secondary sanctions on service providers, the US government is trying to cut off international infrastructure supporting Iranian airlines.
The September 23 deadline could place additional strain on international airports and aviation services that deal with Iranian airlines. Business Honor notes that the expanded US sanctions may have wider implications for Iranian airlines, airports, fuel suppliers, and global aviation service providers.
FAQs
What is happening to Iranian airlines?
The US has announced measures intended to prevent Iranian airlines from operating globally from September 23.
When will the US measures take effect?
The US has set September 23, 2026, as the date for the global shutdown of Iranian airlines.
What are secondary sanctions?
Secondary sanctions can expose foreign companies to US restrictions for conducting certain business with sanctioned entities.
Which companies could be affected?
Potentially affected entities include airports, fuel suppliers, ground handlers, ticketing agents and other aviation service providers.
How many Iranian airlines did the US Treasury designate?
The US Treasury designated 27 Iranian airlines in its September 8 action.
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