Baghdad International Airport Receives First European Flight in 35 Years

Iraqi Ministry of Transport Media Offica

Aegean Airlines Airplane.

The Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced on Tuesday that Baghdad International Airport has received its first European flight in 35 years, marking a significant step in the recovery and modernisation of Iraq’s civil aviation sector.

According to a statement from the Ministry’s media office, this milestone is the result of sustained efforts to meet operational, technical, and security standards while upgrading airport infrastructure to align with international norms adopted by European airports. The flight, operated by Aegean Airlines on the Baghdad-Athens-Baghdad route, will run twice weekly, with potential for expansion based on demand and occupancy.

The statement highlighted that Aegean Airlines, Greece’s national carrier, is the first European airline to land in Baghdad in more than three decades, signaling Iraq’s reintegration into the European aviation network. The development reflects a qualitative leap in the liberalisation of Iraq’s air transport sector and demonstrates growing confidence in Baghdad International Airport’s operational capabilities and safety infrastructure.

In addition, Oman Air is scheduled to operate flights from Baghdad to Europe, further enhancing connectivity with European capitals and expanding opportunities for passenger travel, tourism, business, and economic exchange.

The Ministry emphasised that these initiatives contribute to the ongoing effort to lift the European ban on Iraqi Airways. Substantial progress has been achieved in meeting the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) requirements, with 81% of recorded deficiencies addressed. This demonstrates Iraq’s commitment to international safety and quality standards.

The successful operation of this flight underscores Baghdad International Airport’s restored regional and international presence and positions Iraq as a safe and capable air hub. The Ministry of Transport aims to leverage these developments to enhance openness to global markets and strengthen Iraq’s role in international aviation.




PUKMEDIA