SalamAir resumed direct flights from Tehran to Muscat on Sunday, October 18, 2026, landing its first flight from Imam Khomeini International Airport. However, the new conditions for passenger acceptance indicate that only holders of valid residency in Oman are allowed to use these services.
New Conditions for Passenger Acceptance
According to the published announcement, Iranians without valid residency in Oman have been removed from the list of authorized passengers for SalamAir flights. Only individuals holding a valid residency card for Oman, a two-year residency visa labeled "Resident," Omani citizens, and passports from Gulf Cooperation Council member countries can utilize these flights. Therefore, Iranians intending to travel to Muscat for short-term trips or tourism currently face restrictions.
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Consequences and Challenges
The return of SalamAir flights occurs at a time when Iran's aviation industry is facing serious challenges due to new U.S. sanctions. The U.S. Treasury Department announced a series of sanctions against Iran's aviation industry on September 8, 2026, which included 27 Iranian airlines and some foreign companies related to services in this industry. These sanctions have negative impacts on the supply of aircraft and equipment needed for Iran's aviation industry.
The restriction on accepting Iranian passengers on SalamAir flights means that establishing this route does not genuinely allow travel for all Iranian applicants. Hassan Karimnia, a transportation and transit expert, emphasized that the goal of foreign airlines returning to Iran should not merely be their re-registration but should create real conditions for passenger use.
Karimnia also stressed the importance of transparent and accurate information regarding acceptance conditions, as a lack of sufficient information can lead to confusion among passengers and impose additional costs. Aviation officials in the country have stated that consultations to remove these restrictions are ongoing, but so far, the acceptance conditions remain in place.
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