Iran (IMNA) - On Saturday, Hossein Pourfarzaneh, Head of the CAA, announced that technical teams have commenced the design and development process for two types of light passenger planes. He indicated that the manufacturing program is set to begin soon, with contributions from commercial partners.
Pourfarzaneh emphasized the need for smaller aircraft to service the country's extensive geography. "Given Iran’s vast geography and its many small airports, the country has a significant demand for short-haul flights that can use 20-seat light aircraft to connect smaller cities to the main aviation network," he stated. These homegrown planes are also expected to help meet Iran's regional flight needs.
The announcement follows closely on the heels of Iran beginning test flights for its first home-made cargo plane, the Simorgh. CAA regulations require the Simorgh to complete 100 hours of test flights under various conditions before receiving its final permit to join Iran's aviation fleet.
The production of the Simorgh places Iran among fewer than 20 countries worldwide with the capability to design and manufacture aircraft.
Pourfarzaneh expressed confidence in the country's long aviation history, noting that Iran has nearly a century of experience and can leverage its"very advanced technical, academic and industrial infrastructure" to manufacture its own aircraft.
Iran's progress in its aircraft manufacturing and maintenance sectors has been notable in recent years, despite international sanctions that have restricted the country's access to new foreign aircraft and essential spare parts. The push for domestic production is a strategic response to these limitations, ensuring the continuity and expansion of its aviation services.
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