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Iran Air has signed an agreement worth $25bn to buy 118 aircraft from Airbus, marking the country’s return to the international civil aviation community.

The deal includes 21 A320ceo Family and 24 A320neo Family jetliners, 27 from the A330ceo Family, 18 A330-900neo aircraft, 16 A350-1000s and 12 A380s.

It also covers the training of pilots, customer support and services. Iran Air will also benefit from the advantages of Airbus’ product line commonality.

Iran and Airbus also signed a civil aviation co-operation agreement to support the country’s development of air navigation services, airport and aircraft operations, regulatory harmonisation, technical and academic training, maintenance, repair and industrial co-operation.

"Today is a significant step in the overhaul and modernisation of Iran’s commercial aviation sector and Airbus stands ready to play its role in supporting it."

Iran Air chairman Farhad Parvaresh said: "Today’s announcement is the start of re-establishing our civil aviation sector into the envy of the region and along with partners, like Airbus, we will ensure the highest world standards."

Airbus president Fabrice Brégier said: "Today is a significant step in the overhaul and modernisation of Iran’s commercial aviation sector and Airbus stands ready to play its role in supporting it."

Several airlines in Iran presently operate a combined 84 Airbus jetliners.

Iran is planning to expand its fleet from 150 to 500 aircraft, as Western countries lifted economic sanctions after a nuclear pact.

The country is also purchasing 40 turboprop aircraft from ATR, and is said to be in negotiations with Bombardier and Mitsubishi.

In September, Iran signed a deal with Russia to buy satellite and aircraft equipment worth $21bn.


Image: Iran Air has agreed to buy 118 aircraft from Airbus. Photo: courtesy of Airbus.