Boeing

Boeing has secured approval from the US Government to start discussions with approved Iranian airlines regarding their fleet requirements.

The airplane maker is looking to tap opportunities following the lifting of nuclear sanctions on Iran.

Boeing will require a different license to sell any commercial jetliner.

The company was quoted by AFP stating: "We have applied for and received a license to assess the current commercial passenger airplane needs of US government-approved Iranian airlines.

"The license permits us to engage approved airlines to determine their actual fleet requirements."

Boeing’s rival Airbus secured an early lead in Iran with a $27bn order in January when nuclear sanctions were eased.

"According to Boeing, approval from the US Government will help the company to compete with its rivals Bombardier and Airbus."

According to Boeing, approval from the US Government will help the company to compete with its rivals Bombardier and Airbus.

Boeing said in a statement: "We understand that the situation in the region is complicated and ever-changing and we will continue to follow the US Government’s guidance as it relates to conducting business with Iran."

For 20 years, Western manufacturers were prohibited from selling planes or equipment, as well as spare parts to Iranian companies.

The country’s civil aviation fleet currently comprises nearly 140 aircraft, with an average age of approximately 20 years. Most of them will have to be replaced.

According to an estimate of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation (CAO), the country will require up to 90 new planes every year in the next five years, with nearly 550 aircraft within ten years, to cater to the domestic market, reports International Business Times.

Image: US grants license to Boeing to hold talks with Iranian carriers. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.