Iranian Airbus

Mahan Air's 21 year old Airbus A310-304, thundering away from the tarmac at Düsseldorf, heading for Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport.

Due to the sanctions imposed by the US government, Iranian airlines can only purchase used aircraft that are at least seven years old, and only through third parties, with this A310 being a classic case in point. It was originally delivered to Lufthansa in 1991, then went through four owner changes before ending up at Mahan two years ago.

Looks very well kept though!


Also, GOOD NEWS! An awesome plane came to Cologne today, namely a private 727! It's owned by Peter Nygård, a fashion mogul who thought that flying with regular airlines was way too bothersome. It will depart on Thursday, with the observation deck probably being packed with spotters, me included (hopefully).