Iran to Resume International Flights from Tehran After 50-Day Pause
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TEHRAN, April 24, 2026 — Iran will resume international passenger flights from Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport on Saturday, ending a suspension of more than 50 days triggered by the ongoing US-Israeli war of aggression.
The Civil Aviation Organization of Iran announced the decision late Thursday, stating that the airport would reopen to international traffic as part of a phased recovery of air travel services. The suspension began in late February following escalating regional tensions and security concerns linked to the conflict between the United States and Israel.
Imam Khomeini International Airport, Iran’s busiest aviation hub, has remained closed to foreign carriers since the initial grounding order. Domestic flights continued operating throughout the period, though at reduced capacity. The resumption marks a significant step toward normalizing air travel connections between Iran and the rest of the world.
Airlines operating out of Tehran are expected to begin restoring scheduled services to major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. However, the full extent of the recovery remains uncertain as several international carriers have yet to confirm their return to Iranian airspace.
The pause in international flights coincided with a broader disruption of regional air routes amid heightened military activity. Iranian officials cited safety protocols and airspace restrictions as primary reasons for the initial suspension. The decision to lift the ban comes as regional diplomatic efforts seek to de-escalate tensions.
Passengers stranded abroad during the closure have expressed relief at the announcement, though many remain cautious about travel plans due to lingering security concerns. Travel agencies in Tehran reported a surge in inquiries about flight bookings following the news.
The reopening of Imam Khomeini International Airport does not guarantee immediate restoration of all routes. Some airlines may delay their return until further clarity emerges regarding the stability of the region. Additionally, customs and immigration procedures at the airport may face temporary bottlenecks as staff reorient to international operations.
Iranian authorities have not specified which airlines will be the first to resume flights or how many daily departures will be permitted in the initial phase. The government has also not addressed potential restrictions on certain nationalities or destinations.
The situation remains fluid as the US-Israeli conflict continues to impact regional stability. Observers note that any escalation could prompt a renewed suspension of air services. For now, the resumption of flights represents a tentative return to normalcy for Iran’s aviation sector.
Further details on flight schedules and operational constraints are expected to be released by the Civil Aviation Organization in the coming days. International travelers are advised to check with their respective airlines before making travel arrangements.