Iran partially reopens skies after conflict pause, key regions restricted

Iran has partially reopened its airspace following a conflict-driven shutdown, allowing limited transit through eastern corridors while keeping large sections of the country restricted.

The move marks the first step in a phased recovery plan tied to a fragile ceasefire, with authorities proceeding cautiously amid ongoing security concerns.

Eastern corridors reopen while west remains shut

Iran has reopened eastern airspace for international overflights, including routes over cities such as Mashhad, Zahedan and Chabahar, according to News18, citing the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization.

However, western and central regions remain largely closed, particularly areas near Iraq and the Persian Gulf that are still considered high risk.

Tehran’s main airports, Imam Khomeini International and Mehrabad, are operating under strict controls, with only limited international arrivals and departures permitted subject to prior approvals, News18 reported.

Some airports are also enforcing night curfews between 9 pm and 5 am due to operational constraints.

Four-stage reopening plan underway

Iran has adopted a four-stage restoration strategy, transitioning from a complete shutdown to a gradual reopening, according to News18.

The current phase focuses on reopening eastern transit corridors. Subsequent stages include restoring full services in eastern provinces, expanding operations at Tehran’s hubs, and eventually reopening western airspace and achieving full nationwide connectivity.

Authorities are currently in Phase One, indicating that broader reopening remains conditional on stability.

Airlines continue to avoid Iranian airspace

Despite the partial reopening, commercial ticket sales remain suspended, limiting passenger travel options, according to News18.

Major international carriers from Europe and North America continue to bypass Iranian airspace, opting for longer routes via Central Asia or the Caucasus due to safety concerns.

Regulators including the US Federal Aviation Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency have maintained high-caution or no-fly advisories for the Tehran flight information region, reinforcing airline hesitancy.

Recovery likely to remain gradual

The phased reopening reflects a cautious approach as Iran balances operational recovery with security risks following recent hostilities.

While the resumption of eastern transit routes offers some relief to global aviation networks, full restoration of normal flight operations remains distant, with airlines expected to wait for clearer signals on safety before returning in significant numbers.