TEHRAN – Lufthansa has announced that it plans to resume flights to Iran on January 16, 2026, following a safety and operational assessment carried out in conjunction with Iranian aviation authorities.
Preparations for the German airline’s return began a few weeks ago with a visit from Lufthansa’s Iran regional manager, the airline’s senior director of aviation security and risk management, and Austrian Airlines’ country manager.
The team held talks with Iran’s Civil Aviation Authority, Imam Khomeini International Airport, and other operational centers. Before making the final decision to resume operations, Lufthansa inspected its facilities, systems and management processes and discussed technical requirements with Iranian authorities.
Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization said Lufthansa’s resumption of operations reflects the demand for international travel and Iran’s broader relations with other countries. It added that the move could encourage other European airlines to re-enter the Iranian market, strengthen ties with Europe and expand Iran’s global connectivity.
The organization further said that coordination with neighboring countries, expansion of regional routes and opening of new destinations remain priorities for Iranian airlines.
The operational and technical issues that affected Iran Air’s flight to Kuala Lumpur have been resolved and Iran Air Tours has announced that it can begin flying to Malaysia this week.
In regional markets, Kish Air resumed flights to Tajikistan last month and plans to add destinations including Shiraz, Kish and other Iranian cities. Rising demand from Tajik tourists has fueled the expansion.
The Civil Aviation Organization said talks are underway to increase air links between Iran and Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, with proposals submitted by Iranian and foreign airlines.
He added that the growing demand for travel to northern Iran from Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain and other Arab countries is prompting the preparation of VIP and irregular flights in the region.
Additionally, negotiations to expand the Tehran-Paris route remain active, and the outcome depends on the completion of international procedures and ongoing discussions, the organization said.
morning