The Federal Air Transport Agency of Russia, known as Rosaviatsiya, has introduced temporary restrictions on flight operations to the Islamic Republic of Iran. According to the newly issued NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions), Russian air carriers are prohibited from performing flights from the Russian Federation to Iranian airports during the night hours. These safety measures are scheduled to remain in effect until June 24, 2026, as part of an ongoing assessment of the regional aviation environment.
Specific Restrictions and Timeframes
The official directive specifies a strict prohibition on departures to Iran between 23:00 and 11:00 Moscow time. This window covers a significant portion of the daily flight schedule, impacting several international routes. During the permitted window, which spans from 11:01 to 22:59 MSK, airlines are not granted automatic clearance but must instead conduct a rigorous safety evaluation before proceeding with any flight.
- The restrictions apply to all Russian commercial airlines.
- Direct flights to major hubs like Tehran (IKA) are primarily affected.
- Carrier decisions must align with the security recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
- The measures are temporary and subject to review based on the security situation.
Risk Assessment and Regulatory Compliance
In accordance with the directive, flight crews and airline management are required to perform a comprehensive risk assessment for every scheduled operation during the permitted daylight hours. This process involves evaluating current geopolitical stability and technical safety factors. The ICAO recommendations serve as the global benchmark for such evaluations, ensuring that civilian aviation remains insulated from potential hazards. Travelers are advised to stay in close contact with their respective carriers for updates regarding delays or rescheduling of flights to destinations such as Shiraz or Isfahan.
The implementation of these restrictions reflects a cautious approach to international air travel within the region. As the June 24 deadline approaches, the Federal Air Transport Agency will continue to monitor the situation to determine whether the night-time ban should be extended or if the flight conditions can return to standard operating procedures. Passengers currently holding tickets for late-night or early-morning departures are encouraged to verify their flight status via airline mobile apps or official airport websites.