The Association of Iranian Airlines has warned that continued sanctions against Iran’s carriers could affect civil aviation services, stressing that air transport should not become a target of political and economic measures, IRNA reports.

The association argued that restrictions on airlines and aviation supply chains could directly affect access to air transport and operational safety.

The association cited the principles of the Chicago Convention, which call for the safe, orderly and economic development of international civil aviation and fair opportunities for international air transport services.

It also highlighted difficulties in accessing aircraft parts, equipment and technical services, saying continuous access to such resources is directly linked to flight safety.

The association called on the international aviation community, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and member states to consider the humanitarian, technical and safety consequences of sanctions on Iranian airlines.