ENDED

September 18, 2026

US sanctions deepen Iran's aviation isolation live: new restrictions target airlines

Business Live coverage ended 2 updates Concluded 14:35
Black and white photo capturing lively market in Tabriz, Iran.
Photo: Murat Marangoz / pexels

What we know

Last verified 08:34
  • The United States has imposed broad sanctions targeting Iranian airlines and related entities, increasing Iran's aviation isolation.
  • Mahan Air announced it will suspend flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Muscat, effective from September 21.
  • Passenger flights between Iran and Turkey are scheduled to stop starting September 21.
  • A Turkey-based cargo handler linked to Iranian air transport was added to the US sanctions list.

Live updates

Publication times are shown in US Eastern Time and UTC. Event times are stated in the update text when confirmed.

Mahan Air Suspends Iran-Turkey Flights Following U.S. Sanctions

Mahan Air has announced the suspension of its flights to Istanbul and Ankara, effective from September 21, citing the impact of recent U.S. sanctions on Iranian airlines. The airline has also halted services to Muscat amid the tightening restrictions. Multiple sources confirm these cancellations mark a significant reduction in Iran's international air connectivity as the sanctions take effect.

Source The New York Times The New York Times nytimes.com
SN Analysis

US Sanctions Deepen Iran's Aviation Isolation

The United States has imposed broad sanctions targeting Iranian airlines and associated entities, intensifying Tehran's international isolation. Following the sanctions, Mahan Air announced it would suspend flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Muscat, with Iran-Turkey passenger flights set to halt from September 21. A Turkey-based cargo handler linked to Iranian air transport was also added to the US sanctions list, according to multiple sources.

Source The New York Times The New York Times

What we’ll be tracking

Flight Suspensions Effective September 21

Why it matters

International Connectivity

The suspension of Mahan Air flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Muscat significantly reduces Iran's international air links.

Sanctions Impact

Recent U.S. sanctions targeting Iranian airlines and related entities have directly led to the halt of key passenger and cargo flights.

Regional Relations

The flight suspensions affect Iran-Turkey travel and trade, reflecting heightened tensions and economic isolation in the region.