Iraqi Airways Announces Over 100 Repatriation Flights for Pilgrims, Expanding Network
Iraqi Airways is commencing the reverse repatriation operations for Iraqi pilgrims, transporting them back to various airports across the country. This effort is part of an operational plan that includes over 100 dedicated flights to bring pilgrims from the holy lands. These initiatives fall under the Ministry of Transport's broader strategy to revitalize Iraq's air transport sector and expand its international flight network. Mitham Al-Safi, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Transport, clarified that these flights will be conducted in direct coordination with the Hajj and Umrah Commission to ensure a smooth and seamless return for pilgrims after completing their rituals in Saudi Arabia. Al-Safi affirmed that the Ministry has mobilized all its technical and logistical capabilities to ensure the success of this mission. For his part, the Director General of Iraqi Airways, Manaf Abdul Moneim Ajil, stated that the company has completed all necessary preparations, under the direct guidance and follow-up of Minister of Transport Wahab Al-Hasani, and is preparing to launch the first reverse repatriation flights on Monday. Ajil indicated that flights will originate from Madinah, Jeddah, and Taif airports, heading towards all domestic airports. Wide-body aircraft, including B.777, A330, B.787 Dreamliner, along with B.737 and A320 models, have been allocated to ensure efficient air transport during the peak return season. In a related context, the Ministry revealed an ambitious plan to open up new destinations and expand its air routes towards North and East Africa, as well as other Arab countries. As part of this plan, Iraqi Airways has already launched a weekly direct flight from Baghdad International Airport to Tunis every Thursday. This step marks the beginning of achieving a strategic vision aimed at developing operational infrastructure, improving service levels for passengers, and addressing challenges facing the sector, in line with international civil aviation recommendations.
