Iran Civil Aviation Organization Spokesperson Ihvan denied claims that a new NOTAM had been issued suspending all VFR flights and general aviation until 25 April 2026. Ihvan stated that the restriction in question is not a new decision and that the decision taken during the 12-day war with Israel remains in force.
Speaking to Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency, Ihvan said that reports circulating in the public had led to a false perception, noting that the continuation of the previous NOTAM’s validity had been interpreted as “a new NOTAM has been issued.”
“The Previous Decision Remains in Effect”
In his statement, Ihvan emphasized that the restriction on VFR flights was a security measure taken under wartime conditions. He underlined that the extension or continued enforcement of the decision does not mean that a new NOTAM has been issued.
Reason for the Restriction: Security Concerns
Commenting on the rationale behind the restriction, Ihvan said that the inability of air defense systems to detect some aircraft operating under VFR could pose a serious security vulnerability. For this reason, he noted that VFR flights were suspended in line with the decision taken during the wartime period.
What Are VFR Flights?
Visual Flight Rules (VFR) are defined as a set of rules that allow private, sport, and training aircraft to conduct flights based on visual references rather than instrument navigation. It is stated that VFR flights can be carried out within training areas or as part of navigation training from one airport to another.
