Temporary Denial Order Renewed for Re-Exports of U.S. Aircraft to Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on September 17, 2008 renewed a Temporary Denial Order (TDO) suspending the export privileges of Balli Group PLC and related companies and individuals, Blue Airways, and Mahan Airways for an additional 180 days. Evidence obtained by BIS shows that the respondent parties have violated the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the TDO involving re-exports to Iran of three U.S. origin aircraft and that such violations have been significant, deliberate and covert, and that there is a likelihood of future violations.

In addition, false or misleading statements were made, whether affirmatively or through concealment or omission of material facts, to BIS regarding the ultimate destination and end-user of the aircraft. Balli Group PLC and the other named Balli Group respondents are based in the U.K., Blue Airways is based in Armenia, and Mahan Airways is based in Iran.

BACKGROUND

BIS controls exports and re-exports of dual-use commodities, technology and software for reasons of national security, missile technology, nuclear non-proliferation, chemical and biological non-proliferation, crime control, regional stability and anti-terrorism. Criminal and administrative sanctions can be imposed for violations of the Export Administration Regulations. For more information, please visit www.bis.doc.gov

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