The Iraqi Ministry of Transport has officially announced the resumption of direct flights between Iraq and two prominent European destinations, Germany and Denmark. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and cooperation between Iraq and these European nations.

Iraqi Transport Minister, Razzaq Muhibis Al-Saadawi, stated that he engaged in multiple meetings with high-level European officials to propose the operation of direct flights between the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, and various European cities. According to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Minister Al-Saadawi revealed that direct flights will be launched to five European cities, including Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Berlin, Copenhagen, and Munich. These flights are scheduled to commence from November 10, 2023.

This development is expected to greatly benefit the Iraqi community residing in Europe by providing more convenient travel options and fostering closer ties between Iraq and the European countries involved. Furthermore, it reflects the persistent efforts of the Iraqi Transport Ministry and Iraqi Airways to lift the European ban that had been imposed on the airline.

In late September, Iraqi Airways had already announced the resumption of direct flights between Baghdad and the Russian capital, Moscow, demonstrating its commitment to expanding its international network.

Last July, the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA) highlighted the importance of adhering to international standards as a means to have the European Union (EU) ban on Iraqi Airways lifted. The ICAA President, Imad Al-Asadi, held discussions with a delegation from the EU at Baghdad International Airport, exploring avenues for cooperation and collaboration to bolster the civil aviation sector in Iraq. At that time, Al-Asadi reaffirmed the authority's dedication to maintaining international standards and its continuous engagement with EU officials to facilitate the removal of the European ban on Iraqi Airways.

To enhance its flight capabilities and network, Iraqi Airways had previously signed a contract with Boeing for the purchase of 26 aircraft, including 10 state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliners. This investment in its fleet will enable the national carrier to expand its services, providing more international connections for the benefit of travelers and the nation.

With air traffic in the Middle East experiencing a significant increase of over 40 percent compared to 2022, these initiatives and efforts by Iraq and its national carrier are aimed at capitalizing on the growing demand for air travel in the region.