Iran keeps airspace closed to Russian airlines until May 15

Iranian airspace remains closed to Russian airlines until May 15, according to RIA Novosti, citing Russia’s aviation authority, Rosaviatsiya.

“Agency experts continue to analyse air transport operations in the Middle East,” the statement said.

At the same time, Iranian authorities began a partial reopening of their airspace to civil aviation on the morning of April 18 for the first time since late February. Flights have been permitted only in the eastern part of the country, while the western airspace remains closed to civilian aircraft.

Strict operational requirements have also been introduced for aircraft allowed to transit through Iranian airspace. Planes must identify themselves five minutes before entering Iranian airspace and establish communication with air traffic controllers in a neighbouring country five minutes before exiting.

By Tamilla Hasanova