Something fishy? What's responsible for Iran's troubled aviation history: Decades of challenges and tragedies

The cause of the recent helicopter crash involving President Ebrahim Raisi remains unknown, but it highlights Iran's poor air transport safety record. Decades of US sanctions have severely weakened Iran's aerial fleet, contributing significantly to the country's aviation woes.

Ageing Fleet and Sanctions

State news agencies reported that President Raisi was aboard a Bell 212 helicopter. This model, manufactured in the United States, has not been legally sold to Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The age and maintenance issues of such aircraft underscore the broader challenges faced by Iran's aviation sector due to long-standing sanctions.

A History of Tragic Incidents

Iran has experienced numerous aviation tragedies over the years. Previous ministers of defence and transport, as well as commanders of the country's ground and air armed forces, have died in plane or helicopter crashes. These incidents consistently underscore the urgent need for a modernised and safe fleet.

Reformist Efforts to Modernise

During periods of reformist leadership, the Iranian government sought to modernise the country's aircraft fleet. These efforts included negotiating the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Western powers, which aimed to lift sanctions in exchange for Iran limiting its nuclear activities and allowing international inspections. The agreement was seen as a crucial step towards improving aviation safety by facilitating the acquisition of new aircraft and parts.

Setbacks and Opposition

However, the progress made by reformists was halted when President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the JCPOA in 2018 and reimposed stringent sanctions on Iran. This move severely restricted Iran's ability to modernise its fleet, leading to further deterioration of its aviation infrastructure.

In the wake of these setbacks, hardliners in Iran opposed and mocked the reformists' efforts. They argued that Iran should rely on its domestic industries and foreign allies, such as Russia and China, to enhance aviation safety. Despite these assertions, the measures have proven insufficient to address the deep-rooted issues facing Iran's aviation sector.

The Path Forward

As the investigation into President Raisi's helicopter crash continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for a safe and reliable fleet. Addressing these challenges, whether through renewed international negotiations or significant domestic investment, is essential for preventing future tragedies and ensuring the safety of Iran's air transport.