US Renews Export Restrictions Against Mahan Airways
The Bureau of Industry and Security extended a temporary denial order for Mahan Airways and 11 linked entities until October 2027.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Air Travel
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The US Bureau of Industry and Security has renewed a temporary denial order restricting Mahan Airways from accessing US-origin commodities, software, and technology. This measure, which includes 11 associated parties, remains in effect for one year to prevent further export violations.
Why it matters
This renewal addresses a pattern of repeated violations regarding the unauthorized re-export of US-origin aircraft to Iran. By blocking these transactions, regulators aim to prevent imminent breaches of the Export Administration Regulations.
The order restricts access to US-origin goods for Mahan Airways and 11 associated entities through October 2027. This follows the 2025 diversion of five Boeing 777 aircraft, three of which are currently operating with Iranian tail numbers.
The players
Mahan Airways
This Iranian airline has been subject to recurring US export sanctions for its alleged role in violating international aviation regulations.
Bureau of Industry and Security
This agency within the US Department of Commerce manages the Export Administration Regulations and enforces restrictions on sensitive goods.
Office of Foreign Assets Control
Operating under the US Department of the Treasury, this office administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions.
The details
The denial order prohibits the affected parties from participating in any transactions involving items subject to the Export Administration Regulations. Evidence cited includes the ongoing use of US-origin aircraft and support from entities across China, India, Russia, the UAE, Turkey, and Malaysia.
Timeline
The Bureau of Industry and Security first issued the temporary denial order in 2008.
Mahan Airways diverted five Boeing 777 aircraft to Iran in 2025.
The temporary denial order was most recently renewed in October 2025.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control designated supporting parties in July and September 2026.
The current temporary denial order is set to expire in October 2027.
Travel Outlook
This enforcement action highlights the rigid regulatory barriers that govern international aviation logistics and the movement of US-manufactured aircraft. It marks a continuation of long-term efforts to restrict supply chain access for carriers accused of violating international trade law.
International travelers should remain aware that sanctions against specific carriers may lead to sudden shifts in fleet availability or operational status for affected airlines. Passengers booking flights internationally are encouraged to verify carrier compliance statuses to avoid potential disruptions to their travel itineraries.
The takeaway
Maintaining compliance with international export law remains a critical factor for the operational stability of airlines worldwide. Travelers should recognize that geopolitical trade restrictions can directly influence the reliability and availability of international air services.
Further reading
For more information on the complexities of international aviation, see the Air Travel section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Global Sanctions.
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