Iran has introduced a 34-year-old Airbus A340-300 bearing the registration EP-IGI as its new government aircraft, according to the aviation portal Aeroin. The quadjet, which entered service on September 11, replaces a previous government transport aircraft that was destroyed nearly five months prior.
The History of Airbus A340 Serial Number 002
The newly unveiled government jet is not a standard commercial airliner. According to Aeroin, the aircraft carries the manufacturer’s serial number 002, making it one of the very first A340 airframes ever built and essentially a prototype for the type. Airbus initially utilized the four-engine jet as a test aircraft starting in 1992.
Virgin Atlantic subsequently took delivery of the aircraft in May 1997, operating it under the registration G-VHOL. The jet was later leased to an undisclosed operator beginning in July 2007 before being retired from service in June 2011—correcting to the timeline where leasing firm GMT Global Republic Aviation acquired the jet and registered it as M-YRGU.
Did you know? Before joining the Iranian government fleet, this specific Airbus A340 served as the oldest active passenger-configured A340 in the world while flying for Iran Aseman Airlines.
Previous Service With Iran Aseman Airlines
In 2012, the aircraft joined the fleet of Iran Aseman Airlines with the registration EP-APA, according to Aeroin. During its tenure with the airline, the jet briefly held the distinction of being the oldest Airbus A340 actively operating in global passenger service. The plane even flew an Iranian delegation to the United Nations General Assembly in New York (JFK) in 2017.
Iran Aseman Airlines, which is barred from operating flights into European airspace, kept the jet in service until its retirement. Following its commercial retirement, the aircraft spent roughly one and a half years parked at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport.
Conversion and Current Operations
After sitting parked for approximately 18 months, the quadjet underwent extensive maintenance checks and received a fresh coat of paint. Technicians reconfigured the interior into a VIP layout suitable for state transport. Operated by Ashianeh, the aircraft officially entered service for the Iranian government on September 11, replacing the lost predecessor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the new Iranian government aircraft enter service?
According to Aeroin, the Airbus A340-300 officially entered service as a government transport on September 11.
What is the history of registration EP-IGI?
Built as serial number 002, the aircraft served as an Airbus test plane starting in 1992, flew for Virgin Atlantic, and later operated as a passenger jet for Iran Aseman Airlines before undergoing VIP conversion.
Which organization operates the government Airbus A340?
The VIP-configured quadjet is operated by Ashianeh for the Iranian government.
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