Iran Air Could be the Next Carrier to Operate A380s

Jan. 26, 2016

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2 min read

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The A380 is considered by many to be the pinnacle of luxury air travel, with perks ranging from Shower Spas on Emirates to the super-luxe Residence on Etihad Airways. It's also one of the largest planes in the sky, with the capacity to fit more than 600 passengers on some of the world's busiest routes.

Now, following recently lifted international sanctions, it seems that Iran Air could be the next big buyer for these flying behemoths. The airline recently demonstrated interest in the aircraft after announcing a provisional deal with Airbus, ordering eight planes to be delivered by 2019.

Etihad's mammoth A380. Photo courtesy of Airbus. — Etihad's mammoth A380. Image courtesy of Airbus.

Whether or not the carrier ever completes the order has yet to be determined, but it would be interesting for Iran Air, especially considering that the airline's current fleet is composed of a hodgepodge of aircraft that are far older than those of its Middle Eastern competitors. Typically, the A380 is reserved for some of the most popular routes in the world, like Etihad's New York to Abu Dhabi flight — this move suggests that Iran Air is now looking to expand its presence as a major carrier in the Middle East and around the world.

H/T: Reuters

Featured image by ANA's A380 will have a first-class cabin.