• The U.S. will shut down Iranian airlines' access to landing spots, refueling, and ticket sales, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
  • The move escalates economic pressure on Iran, targeting aviation as a key revenue and logistics channel.
  • The decision aligns with broader sanctions aimed at isolating Iran's economy and limiting its regional influence.

Escalating Sanctions on Iranian Aviation

The United States announced a sweeping crackdown on Iranian airlines, effectively barring them from landing rights, refueling services, and ticket sales, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The measure, disclosed in a statement on Friday, targets carriers such as Iran Air and Mahan Air, which have long been under U.S. sanctions but continued operating through third-country partners.

Bessent said the action would “shut down both Iranian airlines’ access to landing spots, refueling, and ticket sales,” calling it part of a broader effort to starve the Iranian regime of revenue. The Treasury Department has identified aviation as a critical pathway for Iran to move personnel, goods, and funds, particularly for its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and proxies in the region.

“This is a significant escalation,” said a former U.S. official familiar with sanctions policy, speaking on condition of anonymity. “By cutting off operational necessities, the U.S. aims to ground Iranian carriers entirely.” The restrictions will apply to airports and service providers worldwide, potentially affecting hubs in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East where Iranian airlines have maintained limited operations.

Industry analysts warn that the move could disrupt travel for thousands of passengers and increase costs for Iranian cargo shipments. Iranian airlines have already faced severe restrictions amid previous sanctions, including bans on purchasing U.S.-made aircraft parts. The new measures extend to ticket sales, which could be enforced through global distribution systems and online platforms.

The Treasury Department did not specify a timeline for implementation, but officials suggested it could take effect within weeks. Attempts to reach representatives of Iran Air and Mahan Air for comment were unsuccessful. The Iranian mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the title of Scott Bessent. He is Treasury Secretary, not Secretary of State.