Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met on Sunday with a delegation from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), led by Vice President Kamil Al-Awadhi, as part of efforts to lift the European ban on Iraqi Airways.
According to a government statement, the meeting reviewed Iraq’s ongoing efforts and measures to remove the restrictions on its national carrier, as well as the progress made in implementing the plan prepared by the committee responsible for meeting the necessary requirements.
Iraqi Airways has been under European sanctions for years due to its failure to comply with international aviation safety standards set by IATA.
The discussions also covered Iraq’s efforts to modernize the airline, implement automation across all operational sectors, enhance the company’s capabilities, improve staff training, and elevate the quality of services provided to passengers and cargo operations.
In October 2024, Iraqi Airways announced a major fleet upgrade, adding 13 new aircraft, including five Airbus planes, six Boeing 737s, and two Dreamliners, as part of a broader contract for ten aircraft. The airline expects to expand its fleet to more than 30 planes in the coming years.
Sudani emphasized the importance of this issue, calling for continuous monitoring of the committee’s work and ensuring all necessary support to meet the requirements for lifting the ban. He also stressed the need to modernize Iraqi Airways’ infrastructure, adhere to international aviation standards, and keep pace with industry advancements.
Al-Awadhi highlighted the progress made in addressing the concerns that led to the ban, stating that 56% of the corrective action plan has been completed and indicating that the project is moving in the right direction and on schedule.
