TEHRAN, July 1 (Mehr News Agency) - The first Airbus 340-200 joined the Airlines of Islamic Republic of Iran (HOMA), said its managing director here Sunday.

The passenger airliner enjoying the necessary equipment was earmarked for the long-haul flights to Europe, said Saeid Hessami adding "it would take flights between Tehran and Caracas via Madrid and Damascus."

He expressed hope modern airplanes would join HOMA to solve problems facing the industry.

The passenger jet's maiden flight would be to the holy city of Mashhad, northeastern Iran, in coming days.

... Payvand News - 7/1/07 ... --