Iran hopes to start importing aircraft from France by the end of this year

Almaty. September 21. Silkroadnews – Iran's plans to purchase new aircraft in the near future depends on the US decision, Peter Harbison, Executive Chairman of CAPA (Centre for Aviation that is the leading provider of independent aviation market intelligence, analysis and data services), told Trend.

«At the end it all comes down to what is happening in Washington», P. Harbison said.

Iranian Roads and Urban Development Minister Abbas Akhoundi accused the US Treasury in hampering Iran's purchase of new aircraft.

«It is very important to talk about these issues and exchange views on this issue openly, which is the major advantage of this dialogue», CAPA chairman said in his turn.

According to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Iran and Airbus signed this January, Tehran is expected to acquire 118 civil aircraft worth $25 billion from Airbus.

Minister A. Akhoundi said Iran hopes to start importing aircraft from France by the end of 2016.

Earlier, Iran's national airline «Iran Air» also announced signing of a memorandum of understanding on the new aircraft purchase with Boeing. According to the memorandum, «Iran Air» will buy a new generation of aircraft models 737, 777-300ER and 777-900, the Iranian airline reported. The report said the contract will be made as soon as both parties get the necessary licenses from the US government and the Islamic Republic government.

Boeing also confirmed it has signed an agreement with «Iran Air» to come into force after the US government approves the deal with Iran.