US warns firms servicing Iranian airlines as Mahan Air routes include Phuket
Washington has warned airports and other companies supporting Iranian airlines that they could lose access to the dollar system from 23 September 2026, potentially affecting Mahan Air services to Phuket.
The United States has warned airports and other companies servicing Iranian airlines that they could lose access to the dollar-based financial system from 23 September 2026, potentially disrupting Mahan Air services involving Phuket.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview on 21 September, reported in Asia on 22 September, that Iranian carriers would face a global shutdown from 23 September. The warning covers services including aircraft take-offs and landings, ticket sales and bookings, refuelling and other aviation support.
The latest measures extend a sanctions campaign targeting Iran’s aviation sector. Earlier in September, the US Treasury Department sanctioned Iranian airlines that had not previously been designated, along with companies outside Iran accused of supporting the sector.
Mahan Air (W5), an Iranian full-service carrier, serves Bangkok and Phuket. Airports of Thailand lists the airline at Suvarnabhumi Airport and Phuket International Airport. The routes described in the report connect Phuket and Bangkok with Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran. The Wall Street Journal has also reported on Mahan Air’s Tehran–Phuket service.
The threatened restrictions could affect Iranian airlines’ international operations, including their connections with Thailand. Any specific changes to Mahan Air flights would need to be confirmed by the airline and relevant authorities.
