Iranian airline plans new flights to France and Germany

Iran Airtour, a privately-owned Iranian airline, is set to commence direct flights from Tehran to Paris starting January 31, 2025. The airline plans to operate this route twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Fridays, utilizing its Airbus A300 aircraft.

Established in 1973, Iran Airtour has recently expanded its operations and fleet. As of June 2024, the airline's diverse fleet includes Airbus A300-600 and Airbus A310-300 models, among others.

In addition to the Paris route, Iran Airtour has announced plans to further expand its European network.By the end of March 2025, the airline intends to introduce flights to destinations in Germany, Spain, and Italy.Specific cities and schedules for these routes have yet to be disclosed. 

This expansion comes in the wake of recent sanctions imposed by the European Union in October 2024, which have restricted other Iranian airlines, such as Iran Air and Mahan Air, from operating flights to Europe.These sanctions were implemented due to allegations involving the transfer of drones and related technologies to Russia.

Iran Airtour's upcoming European services are made possible by its Third Country Operator (TCO) authorization, granted by the European Union in 2021.This certification permits the airline to operate flights within EU airspace, provided it meets the necessary safety and regulatory standards. 

The airline's strategic move to enter the European market aims to fill the void left by other Iranian carriers currently unable to serve the region due to sanctions.By launching these new routes, Iran Airtour seeks to enhance connectivity between Iran and Europe, offering passengers alternative travel options.

As the inaugural flight date approaches, travelers and industry observers anticipate further announcements regarding specific destinations and flight schedules, which are expected to be released in the coming weeks.