Peregraf — The Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced on Tuesday the landing of the first European aircraft at Baghdad International Airport in 35 years, marking a major milestone toward reopening Iraq’s airspace and restoring its presence on the European aviation map.
In a statement, the Ministry’s Media Office said the flight represents the culmination of sustained efforts overseen by Minister of Transport Razzaq Muhibis Al-Saadawi, which focused on meeting operational, technical, and security requirements, as well as upgrading airport infrastructure to comply with international standards adopted by European airports.
The statement noted that the flight operates on the Baghdad–Athens–Baghdad route as part of a regular schedule of two flights per week, with the possibility of increasing frequencies in the future depending on demand and passenger load. The service is operated by Aegean Airlines, Greece’s national carrier, making it the first European airline to land in Baghdad in more than three decades.
According to the ministry, the move reflects a significant boost in confidence in the capabilities of Baghdad International Airport and the efficiency of Iraq’s aviation infrastructure, confirming that Iraqi airports have become safe and viable operational environments capable of integrating into the international aviation system. Aegean Airlines operates an extensive network serving 162 destinations worldwide with a modern fleet.
In a related development, the ministry revealed that Oman Air intends to operate flights to Europe departing from Baghdad International Airport, a step expected to strengthen air connectivity between Baghdad and European capitals and positively impact tourism, business, and economic exchange.
The statement added that these developments represent an important contribution to Iraq’s aviation safety record and support ongoing efforts to lift the European ban on the Iraqi national carrier. It highlighted progress achieved by Iraqi Airways in meeting IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) requirements, noting that the observation correction rate has reached 81 percent, underscoring Iraq’s commitment to international safety and quality standards.
The Ministry of Transport affirmed that the arrival of the European flight symbolizes the success of Iraqi airports in regaining their regional and international standing and reinforces Iraq’s position as a safe aviation hub, in line with the government’s vision to develop the civil aviation sector and expand openness to the world.