Iraqi Airways Closer to Removal of EU Ban

Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani chaired a key meeting with representatives from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to track progress on lifting the European Union's ban on Iraqi Airways.

During the session, the IATA delegation and the Head of the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA) presented a detailed update, confirming that 71% of the agreed corrective action plan has been implemented. Discussions also explored the signing of a potential Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Iraq and IATA to further formalise collaboration.

The review included compliance with IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) standards, with IATA affirming improved operational performance and pledging continued support through technical training to bolster aviation governance in Iraq.

Topics also covered included airport security, pilot development programmes, and the importance of aligning Iraqi Airways with global aviation service standards in areas such as cargo, ground services, and fuel operations.