Did Rayoni Tourism Airline Risk Malawi's Aviation Future with Airbus A340?

Rayoni Tourism Airline (RTA) has strongly denied sensational reports linking the company to breaches of international sanctions against Iran.

The airline described the claims as false, reckless, and damaging. RTA stated the allegations threaten not only its business but also Malawi’s international aviation reputation.

The Allegations and RTA’s Denial

The controversy centers on reports published by several online platforms. These outlets include the Middle East Forum and Platform for Investigative Journalism (PIJ Malawi).

The reports alleged that RTA had acquired four Airbus A340-600 aircraft. The intent was allegedly to resell them to Iran’s Mahan Air through the Malawi aircraft registry.

Mahan Air is an entity under international sanctions. It was designated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in 2011.

OFAC cited the airline for providing support to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF).

Furthermore, the European Union (EU) sanctioned Mahan Air in 2024. This was due to its alleged involvement in transferring missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles to Russia.

RTA’s Counter-Statement

In a detailed press statement, RTA flatly rejected the entire narrative. The airline stated that the aircraft in question were never purchased.

They confirmed no payments were made. Lease negotiations were never concluded.

“There was no acquisition, no concluded lease, no sale, and no involvement whatsoever with Mahan Air,” the company stated.

Reports had suggested the aircraft, former Thai Airways Airbus A340-600s, were stored in China. Some reports claimed three of the jets had already received Malawian registration codes.

RTA dismissed these claims as entirely fabricated. The airline also denied operating as a “front” to bypass sanctions.

Impact on Malawi’s Aviation Credibility

Legal experts noted the case raises serious questions about journalistic standards. This is especially true when allegations touch on international sanctions compliance aviation and national reputation.

The false reports have already jeopardized legitimate business operations. RTA warned of the possible cancellation of two aircraft leases. These leases were secured for regional and domestic operations.

Such projects are vital for generating foreign exchange and skilled jobs in Malawi. A source familiar with the matter called the reporting “economically harmful.”

Malawi was chosen as a base for aircraft selling and leasing. This was due to its registry framework. RTA clarified it only entered into a management services agreement with aircraft owners. This is a lawful and common arrangement in the global aviation industry.

• Risk to Investment: Unverified claims can undermine investor confidence in Malawi’s emerging aviation sector.
• Sanctions Exposure: Even false allegations can trigger scrutiny from bodies like EASA and the U.S. Treasury, impacting future deals.

Legal Action Underway

Rayoni Tourism Airline stated that its legal team has initiated action against the individuals and institutions responsible. They will be required to prove every allegation in the High Court of Malawi.

The airline claims journalists were advised to wait for judicial determination before publishing. They proceeded with what RTA calls “sensational and damaging inaccuracies.”

As the matter heads for judicial scrutiny, the dispute serves as a stark reminder. Unverified reporting can endanger businesses and drag an entire country into undeserved controversies.

For more commercial aviation news and analysis on global compliance issues, visit https://flying.flights. The integrity of a nation's IATA standing and its aviation business hinges on factual reporting and strict adherence to international law.