RIYADH – The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has ordered the cancelation of permits formerly granted to Iranian aviation company Mahan Air. In a statement to Saudi Press Agency, GACA announced it has also banned permanently the Iranian airline's flights to land at the Kingdom's airports or fly over its airspace because of a number of violations. "GACA monitored a number of violations committed by the Iranian Mahan company against the national regulations and relevant laws breaching the safety of international aircraft operators in the Kingdom. The decision has been taken out of GACA's keenness to ensure the safety of passengers and protect their lives," the statement said adding that the decision is based on article 163 of the Saudi Civil Aviation Law related to taking penal action against companies that commit violations.
