Financial Tribune � A glance at unused capacities of Iranian airports reveals that the share of air transportation can reach 40-45 million passengers per year with the renewal of the country's short-, medium- and long-range fleet.

At present, the figure stands at about 35.7 million passengers per annum, Donya-e-Eqtesad reported.

As of last Iranian year (March 20, 2019), 137 airplanes were operating in the country. To make the full use of airport capacities, the number of airplanes should increase to 250-270.

Iran has a total of 306 passenger aircraft, 169 of which are inactive.

According to the report, Iran�s air fleet needs to prioritize the procurement of short-range planes.

Experts say at least 40 aging airplanes need to be scrapped and replaced with new aircraft.

Aviation industry players believe sanctions are the main reason behind Iran's inability to renovate its aging air fleet.

The average age of Iran�s air fleet decreased by 3.5 years to 21.5 years after Iran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with world powers to curb its nuclear program in exchange for relief from international sanctions.