Iraq-Iran flights are gradually returning as regional airspace restrictions ease. Iraqi Airways has resumed services and expanded its schedule to several Iranian cities.
The development marks a gradual return to normal air travel between Baghdad and Tehran. Earlier regional airspace closures forced airlines to suspend flights between the neighboring countries.
According to Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, Iraqi Airways resumed direct services on Thursday. The first returning flight landed at Sardar-e Jangal International Airport in Rasht.
The airline received official approval before restarting the route. Moreover, Iraqi Airways plans to operate nine weekly flights to Rasht.
The carrier will also resume direct services to Tehran next week. Consequently, weekly flights from Baghdad and Najaf to Tehran will reach 18.
Iraqi Airways also plans to increase flights to Mashhad. Two additional weekly services will join the airline’s upcoming schedule.
Meanwhile, other international carriers have also started using Iranian airspace again. Flydubai and Arabia Airlines received approval to resume transit flights.
Iranian aviation authorities coordinated the move with air operations officials. They also worked with air traffic control authorities before granting the necessary approvals.
Furthermore, Iranian officials continued consultations with Oman regarding international aviation traffic. Those discussions aimed to facilitate and expand foreign aircraft movements through Iranian airspace.
Flydubai also received a seasonal permit to operate through the country’s airspace. However, authorities continue to emphasize strict safety measures.
Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization said airspace safety remains its primary concern. Therefore, authorities continue coordinating with relevant agencies to manage foreign flights.
The gradual return of Iraq-Iran flights follows months of disruption across the region. Regional instability previously forced airlines to suspend services and reroute aircraft.
The US-Iran war contributed to widespread aviation disruptions across the Middle East. Several countries closed their airspace during periods of heightened military tensions.
As a result, airlines faced major operational challenges and financial losses. Passengers also experienced cancellations, delays, and significant changes to travel routes.
However, conditions have gradually improved following the end of the conflict. Airlines can now restore routes as authorities reopen regional air corridors.
The renewed services could also strengthen travel between Iraq and Iran. Thousands of passengers regularly travel between both countries for business, tourism, and religious purposes.
Additionally, increased flights could support broader economic connections between the neighboring states. Easier air travel may also help airlines recover from months of disruption.
The expanding schedule signals further progress toward regional aviation normality. Still, airlines and aviation authorities must continue monitoring security conditions.
For travelers, the return of Iraq-Iran flights offers more direct options between major Iraqi and Iranian cities. Further schedule increases could follow if regional airspace conditions remain stable.
