KABUL – Iran Airtour, a private Iranian airline, inaugurated its first direct flights to Kabul, Afghanistan, on Monday, marking a significant step in regional air connectivity. This move positions Iran Airtour as the fifth Iranian airline to begin operations in Afghanistan since the Taliban’s return to power.
Taliban officials from the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation welcomed the launch, emphasizing its role in bolstering economic growth and cultural ties. They also urged airlines in neighboring countries to resume services to Afghanistan, underlining the importance of open travel channels for regional development.
Iran Airtour plans to operate twice weekly between Iran and Kabul, as confirmed by Mohammad Reza Saberi, the airline’s representative in Afghanistan. “We are excited to foster economic growth and cultural exchange with these flights,” Saberi stated.
The Taliban Ministry disclosed that Afghanistan currently hosts flights from 10 foreign airlines, in addition to its domestic carriers. Ghulam Jelani Wafa, the Deputy Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation, highlighted that Iran Airtour’s entry will further strengthen Afghanistan’s connections within the region and contribute to broader economic and cultural integration.