National carrier meets 78% of EU safety standards, adds new aircraft to fleet
Iraqi Airways is moving closer to regaining access to European Union airspace as part of the country’s broader aviation modernisation efforts. Speaking at the Iraq Transport, Logistics & Airports Exhibition & Conference (ITL Expo 2025) in Baghdad, Transport Minister Razzaq Muhaibis announced that Iraq has now met 78% of the EU’s safety and compliance requirements set in 2015.
The national airline has significantly expanded and modernised its fleet, adding more than ten new aircraft through deals with Boeing and Airbus, bringing its active fleet to over 40 planes. Iraqi Airways aims to grow to 53 aircraft by 2027 as it prepares to reopen long-haul routes once the EU flight ban is lifted.
When restrictions are removed, the carrier plans to resume flights to Europe, as well as expand services across Asia and the Middle East, strengthening its regional and international network.
Iraq’s aviation modernisation extends beyond the airline itself, with infrastructure upgrades at Nasiriyah and Mosul airports, and a major expansion of Baghdad International Airport, which will increase its annual capacity from 8.5 million to 15 million passengers.
These developments mark a significant step in Iraq’s efforts to restore confidence in its aviation sector and re-establish its connectivity with global markets.