Tehran: The head of Iran's Civil Aviation Organization says new US sanctions against Iranian airlines are a continuation of a failed policy, stressing that they may raise costs but cannot halt the country's flight operations. Reacting to Washington's decision to blacklist 27 Iranian airlines, Captain Abouzar Shiroudi said on Wednesday that the move is neither innovative nor effective.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Captain Shiroudi noted that Iran's aviation industry has faced restrictions for decades but has continued to operate thanks to the resilience and expertise of its specialists. He emphasized that targeting airlines is effectively a restriction on the public, since aviation is vital infrastructure serving millions of passengers, patients, students, and businesses.

Despite restrictions on aircraft purchases, parts, and services, Iranian airlines remain operational, and flights will continue under full safety standards, Shiroudi underscored. The determination to maintain flight operations highlights the industry's adaptability and commitment to overcoming challenges imposed by international sanctions.