Iraqi Airways, the national carrier of Iraq, announced on Thursday the resumption of its flights to Iranian airports, effective immediately. The first flight departed from Najaf International Airport to Tehran International Airport, marking the restart of services that had been suspended for several months. According to the airline, daily flights will operate from Najaf to multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan.
The suspension of flights to Iranian airports was implemented in early March due to the US-led sanctions against Iran. However, in late September, the Iraqi government disclosed that it was engaged in direct talks with Washington to exempt certain Iraqi airports from the US sanctions imposed on Iranian airlines. This diplomatic effort yielded results, as the Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced on September 26 that it had obtained an exemption for Iraqi Airways to operate flights to Iran in October.
The US had imposed comprehensive sanctions on Iran's aviation sector in early September, warning of penalties for any entity dealing with Iranian airlines. Notably, the sanctions did not apply to all Iranian airlines, as evidenced by the recent resumption of flights between Najaf and Tehran. On Sunday, Najaf International Airport welcomed the first Iranian aircraft after the resumption of flights, facilitated by Baghdad securing US approval for Iranian airlines to operate to the Shiite holy city, except for Mahan Air.
Mahan Air, an Iranian airline, has been subject to US sanctions since October 2011. The exemption granted to Iraqi Airways and other airlines aims to facilitate travel for pilgrims, students, and patients seeking medical treatment in Iran. The resumption of flights is expected to enhance the flow of passengers and expand Iraq's regional air connectivity. Iraqi Airways emphasized that the flights were resumed after fulfilling all necessary regulatory and technical requirements.
The Iraqi government's efforts to secure exemptions from US sanctions reflect its desire to maintain and strengthen ties with Iran, a neighboring country with significant cultural and economic importance. By resuming flights to Iranian airports, Iraqi Airways is poised to capitalize on the demand for travel between the two nations. The airline's network expansion will likely benefit various segments, including pilgrims, students, and business travelers.
The resumption of flights between Iraq and Iran is also expected to have a positive impact on the economies of both countries. The increased air connectivity will facilitate the exchange of goods, services, and ideas, contributing to regional economic growth. Furthermore, the flights will enable Iraqi citizens to access Iranian medical facilities, educational institutions, and tourist destinations.
As Iraqi Airways resumes its flights to Iranian airports, the airline is committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of its passengers. With a renewed focus on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, the airline aims to strengthen its position in the regional aviation market. The resumption of flights to Iran marks a significant milestone in Iraqi Airways' growth strategy, as it continues to expand its network and improve its services.
Key points
- Iraqi Airways resumes flights to Iranian airports after a months-long suspension.
- The resumption of flights was facilitated by the Iraqi government's efforts to secure exemptions from US sanctions.
- The flights aim to enhance air connectivity between Iraq and Iran, benefiting pilgrims, students, and business travelers.
