ALWAGHT- A Saudi aviation official has announced that more Saudi airlines will soon launch flights to Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, following the arrival of the first Saudi flight in the Iranian capital as part of the ongoing diplomatic thaw between the two nations.
Following a visit by a high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia’s Civil Aviation Authority to Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport City, officials confirmed that more Saudi airlines will soon begin flights to Iran. The visit, coordinated with Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, marked a key milestone in restoring air travel ties after nearly a decade of suspension due to strained diplomatic relations.
During the meeting, Saudi aviation official Mahra bin Basin bin Mubarrad al-Mushri stated that preparations were underway for more flights, while Iranian airport officials assured readiness to handle increased traffic. The Saudi delegation toured airport terminals and reviewed operational capacities, emphasizing aviation safety and enhanced cooperation.
The renewed aviation ties were symbolized by Flynas flight XY8496 from Jeddah to Tehran on May 17, 2025, marking the first direct Saudi flight in years. The flight was part of an agreement to facilitate the Hajj pilgrimage for Iranian pilgrims, with Flynas set to operate 224 flights carrying 37,000 pilgrims by July 1. This resumption follows a 2023 China-mediated deal that restored diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
