Foreign Flights to Iran Plummet 80% After Recent War

Key Takeaways

• Foreign flights to Iran dropped by 80% after the June 2025 war with Israel.
• Only 20% of international flights resumed by July 12, with major airlines suspending service.
• Travelers face cancellations, limited routes, and safety concerns amid ongoing regional instability.

Iran’s international air traffic has suffered a dramatic collapse, with foreign flights dropping by 80 percent after the recent war with Israel. As of July 14, 2025, only a fraction of the usual international flights are operating, leaving travelers stranded and the aviation sector in crisis. The sudden drop in foreign flights to Iran is the most severe disruption the country’s aviation industry has seen in decades, raising serious questions about safety, economic stability, and the future of travel in the region.

Immediate Impact of the War on Iran’s Airspace

The crisis began in mid-June 2025, when military conflict between Iran and Israel escalated sharply. In response to Israeli strikes and growing security threats, Iran closed its airspace and suspended all international flights for 20 days. The closure affected not only foreign flights but also many domestic routes, as fear and uncertainty spread among the public.

On July 3, 2025, Iran officially reopened its airspace and main airports, including Imam Khomeini International Airport and Mehrabad Airport. However, the return to normal operations has been slow and uncertain. By July 12, international air traffic at Iran’s main airports had dropped to just 20% of pre-war levels. For example, Imam Khomeini International Airport, the country’s main international gateway, recorded only 25 takeoffs and landings on July 12, compared to 118 on June 7, before the conflict began. Mehrabad Airport, which handles mostly domestic flights, saw its operations cut in half, from 137 flights on June 7 to just 70 on July 12.

Foreign Airlines Withdraw from Iran

The most striking change has been the near-total withdrawal of foreign airlines from Iran. Before the war, foreign carriers operated nearly half of all flights at Imam Khomeini International Airport. By July 12, that number had dropped to just 15%. Major international airlines—including Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Pegasus—have suspended all flights to Iran, citing security concerns and a lack of demand.

Nearly all long-haul and European routes have been eliminated. Flights to countries such as Austria 🇦🇹, Germany 🇩🇪, Kazakhstan 🇰🇿, Afghanistan 🇦🇫, China 🇨🇳, Thailand 🇹🇭, and India 🇮🇳 have stopped completely. Even regional connections have been slashed: flights to Turkey 🇹🇷 dropped from 42 per day to just 5, and flights to the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪 fell from 19 to 4 per day.

This sudden drop in foreign flights has left tens of thousands of travelers stranded or forced to find alternative, often complicated, routes. Many people seeking to leave or enter Iran have found it nearly impossible to secure tickets, as the few remaining flights are quickly booked or canceled at the last minute.

Domestic Airlines Struggle to Fill the Gap

Iran’s domestic airlines have tried to fill the gap left by foreign carriers, but with limited success. Public fear of further attacks and memories of past tragedies, such as the 2020 downing of a Ukrainian passenger jet, have kept demand for air travel extremely low. Many domestic flights are being canceled due to low passenger numbers, and several airlines—including Mahan Air, Iran Air, Taban, and Yazd Airways—recorded no flights at all on July 12.

Airport staff at both Mehrabad and Imam Khomeini airports report that passenger numbers remain far below normal. Many Iranians are simply too afraid to fly, worried about the risk of renewed military action or accidental incidents in the tense regional environment.

Official Responses and Safety Measures

The Iranian Civil Aviation Organization confirmed the resumption of international flights on July 3 and has been working to restore confidence in the safety of Iranian airspace. Officials have emphasized that all necessary safety protocols are in place and that they are coordinating closely with international aviation authorities.

Despite these assurances, foreign airlines remain cautious. European and Gulf carriers have suspended operations indefinitely, and there is little sign that they will return soon. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the recovery of Iran’s international air traffic will depend on sustained security and confidence-building measures, as well as diplomatic efforts to reassure foreign partners.

Travel Disruption and Practical Steps for Travelers

The collapse in foreign flights to Iran has caused major disruptions for travelers, both Iranian citizens and foreigners. Many people have been stranded, unable to find flights out of the country or to return home. The situation is especially difficult for those with urgent medical needs, business commitments, or family emergencies.

Travelers currently in Iran or planning to visit should take the following steps:

• Check Flight Status Regularly: Contact airlines directly and consult the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization for the latest updates on flight availability and safety advisories.
• Rebooking and Refunds: Most airlines are offering rebooking options, travel vouchers, or refunds for canceled flights. However, processing times may be slow due to the high volume of affected passengers.
• Monitor Security Advisories: The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and national governments, including the U.S. Department of State, continue to issue travel warnings for Iran. These advisories are currently at the highest level, urging travelers to avoid non-essential travel.
• Seek Alternative Routes: With most international routes suspended, travelers may need to use the few remaining regional connections, such as limited flights to Turkey 🇹🇷 or the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪. These options are extremely limited and may change without notice.

For official updates and travel advisories, travelers can visit the U.S. Department of State’s Iran travel page.

Economic and Social Consequences

The sudden collapse in foreign flights to Iran is having a severe impact on the country’s economy. Airports, airlines, and related industries are losing significant revenue. The broader economic effects are compounded by ongoing international sanctions and regional instability.

Before the war, Iran’s aviation sector was experiencing strong growth. From March 2024 to March 2025, international passenger transport grew by 21%, with nearly 4 million travelers on foreign and pilgrimage flights. The World Bank and Statista had projected continued growth in Iran’s aviation and tourism sectors for 2025. Now, those forecasts are in doubt.

Tourism and business travel have been hit especially hard. Many foreign investors and businesspeople are unable or unwilling to travel to Iran, and the country’s tourism industry—already struggling under sanctions—faces further setbacks. Cargo operations have also been disrupted, affecting trade and supply chains.

Historical Context: Safety Concerns and Public Fear

Public fear about flying in and out of Iran is not new. The 2020 shootdown of a Ukrainian passenger jet by Iranian forces remains a traumatic memory for many Iranians. That incident, which killed all 176 people on board, led to widespread criticism of Iran’s air safety practices and a temporary drop in air travel.

The recent war and the sharp drop in foreign flights have revived those fears. Many Iranians worry that renewed conflict or accidental incidents could put passengers at risk. This anxiety is reflected in the low demand for both domestic and international flights, even after the official reopening of airspace.

Regional and International Reactions

Countries in the region, including Turkey 🇹🇷, Qatar 🇶🇦, India 🇮🇳, and the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪, have expressed cautious optimism about the resumption of flights to Iran. However, they remain wary of further instability and have not yet restored most of their own flight connections.

Aviation experts warn that the recovery of Iran’s international air traffic will be slow and uncertain. The risk of renewed conflict or isolated security incidents remains high. Foreign airlines are unlikely to return in large numbers until they are confident that the situation is stable and that passengers and crews are safe.

Economic analysts note that the aviation and tourism sectors, which were expected to grow in 2025, now face significant uncertainty and may even contract. The loss of foreign flights to Iran is likely to have ripple effects throughout the economy, affecting jobs, investment, and the country’s global connections.

Government Initiatives and Possible Solutions

Iranian authorities are under pressure to restore confidence in air travel and encourage the return of foreign airlines. Some possible steps include:

• Enhanced Safety Protocols: Implementing new safety measures and working closely with international aviation organizations to reassure foreign carriers and passengers.
• Diplomatic Efforts: Engaging in diplomatic talks with neighboring countries and major airlines to restore flight connections and rebuild trust.
• Public Communication: Providing clear, transparent information to the public about safety measures and the status of airspace and airports.
• Support for Stranded Travelers: Offering assistance to those stranded by canceled flights, including help with rebooking, refunds, and alternative travel arrangements.

These efforts will take time, and the return of foreign flights to Iran will depend on both security developments and the willingness of airlines and travelers to take the risk.

Step-by-Step Guidance for Affected Travelers

For those currently affected by the collapse in foreign flights to Iran, here’s a step-by-step guide to managing the situation:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly check official sources such as the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization and the ICAO for updates on flight status and safety advisories.
2. Contact Airlines: Reach out to your airline for information on rebooking, refunds, or alternative travel options. Be prepared for long wait times and limited availability.
3. Monitor Government Advisories: If you are a foreign national, check your home country’s embassy or consulate website for the latest travel warnings and assistance options.
4. Consider Alternative Routes: If you must leave Iran, look for available flights to nearby countries, but be aware that these are extremely limited and may be canceled at short notice.
5. Prepare for Delays: Expect delays and disruptions, and have contingency plans in place for accommodation, finances, and communication.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Air Travel in Iran

The outlook for foreign flights to Iran remains uncertain. While the country’s airspace is officially open, the return of international airlines and the restoration of normal flight schedules will likely be slow and dependent on regional security developments. Any renewed military activity or security incidents could prompt further suspensions or cancellations.

Iran’s government faces a difficult task in restoring confidence in its aviation sector. Success will require not only improved safety measures and diplomatic outreach but also a sustained period of stability and transparency. Until then, travelers, airlines, and the broader economy will continue to feel the impact of the war and the collapse in foreign flights.

Key Takeaways for Travelers and Stakeholders

• Foreign flights to Iran have dropped by 80 percent since the war with Israel, leaving many travelers stranded and the aviation sector in crisis.
• Most international airlines have suspended operations, and only a handful of regional flights are available.
• Travelers should check official sources for updates, seek rebooking or refunds, and be prepared for ongoing disruptions.
• The recovery of Iran’s international air traffic will depend on security improvements, diplomatic efforts, and the restoration of public confidence.

For the latest official information on travel to and from Iran, consult the U.S. Department of State’s Iran travel page and the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the situation remains fluid, and all travelers are urged to monitor official channels for the most up-to-date information. The collapse in foreign flights to Iran is a stark reminder of how quickly war and regional instability can disrupt the lives of ordinary people and the functioning of entire industries. For now, caution, patience, and careful planning are essential for anyone affected by these unprecedented changes.

Learn Today

International air traffic → Movement of commercial flights crossing country borders for passengers or cargo transport.
Imam Khomeini International Airport → Iran’s primary international airport, serving as the main gateway for foreign travelers.
Foreign airlines → Air carriers headquartered outside Iran that operate flights to and from the country.
Security advisories → Official warnings or recommendations about travel risks due to potential threats or instability.
Rebooking → The process of changing a passenger’s flight reservation due to cancellations or disruptions.

This Article in a Nutshell

Following the June 2025 conflict with Israel, Iran’s international air traffic collapsed, with flights dropping 80%. Airports reopened in July but foreign airlines remain hesitant. This disruption deeply impacts travelers and Iran’s economy, highlighting urgent needs for security, diplomacy, and comprehensive recovery efforts amid uncertainty.
— By VisaVerge.com