First European Aircraft Lands at Baghdad Airport After 35 Years
Rokna Political Desk: The first commercial flight of a European aircraft by the Greek company Aegean Airlines has landed at Baghdad International Airport after 35 years, symbolizing Iraq’s return to the European aviation map.
The Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced that an aircraft operated by the Greek airline Aegean Airlines landed at Baghdad International Airport, marking the first European commercial flight to touch down at this airport in 35 years.
According to Rokna, citing the official Iraqi news agency (INA), the Information Office of the Ministry of Transport of Iraq stated in a release that the flight was carried out thanks to continuous efforts under the supervision of Iraqi Transport Minister Razzak Mohibis Al-Sa’dawi. These efforts enabled the fulfillment of operational, technical, and security requirements and enhanced the readiness of Iraq’s airport infrastructure in accordance with internationally recognized European aviation standards.
The statement noted that there will be two weekly flights on the Baghdad–Athens–Baghdad route and mentioned that the number of flights may increase in the future depending on demand.
It emphasized that this flight by Aegean Airlines represents the first European aircraft landing in Baghdad in over three decades and signifies Iraq’s renewed presence on the European aviation map.
The release added that this step represents a qualitative transition toward opening Iraqi airspace and reflects increasing confidence in the capabilities of Baghdad International Airport and the efficiency of Iraq’s infrastructure. It demonstrates that the country’s airports provide a safe and integrable environment within the international aviation system, especially given that Aegean Airlines operates a wide operational network with a modern fleet covering 162 global destinations.
The Ministry of Transport of Iraq also announced plans for Oman Air flights to Europe to operate from Baghdad International Airport, strengthening air connectivity between Baghdad and European capitals, opening broader opportunities for passenger travel, and positively impacting tourism, trade, and commercial exchanges.
The statement emphasized that this flight reflects the success of Iraqi airports in reclaiming their regional and international presence and in consolidating Iraq’s position as a safe and organized air transit hub after years of challenges.
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