Baghdad (Agencies): The Iraqi Ministry of Transport has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand Iraqi Airways’ fleet, aiming to add 31 new aircraft by 2027. The move is part of a broader strategy to modernize Iraq’s national carrier and enhance air travel capacity.
According to Maitham Al-Safi, spokesperson for the Iraqi Transport Ministry, Iraqi Airways has already received 13 new aircraft, including five Airbus A220s, six Boeing 737 Max jets, and two Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. This delivery marks a significant step toward strengthening the airline’s operations.
The ministry confirmed that Iraqi Airways will receive an additional eight Boeing Dreamliners and 10 Boeing 737 Max aircraft in the coming years, completing the planned 31-aircraft expansion. Al-Safi highlighted efforts to restore 14 grounded aircraft, with ongoing work to bring the remaining grounded planes back into service.
Additionally, Iraqi Airways currently operates domestic and international flights across Africa, Asia, and Europe, connecting Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Najaf, and Kirkuk to major cities worldwide. The airline services routes to destinations such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Moscow, Beijing, Mumbai, Karachi, and Dubai, with seasonal flights to Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.
While Iraqi Airways is one of the oldest airlines in the Middle East, its global ranking remains outside the top-tier carriers, not appearing in Skytrax’s Top 100 Airlines for 2024. However, with the expansion plan, the airline is expected to strengthen its operations and potentially improve its international standing.
With this growth, Iraqi Airways aims to boost its fleet to 39 aircraft, improving its ability to serve domestic and international routes. The airline’s modernization plan aligns with Iraq’s broader efforts to develop its aviation sector and enhance global air connectivity.