Iraq has transformed into a vital international air transit hub, with daily overflights surpassing 700 aircraft—an unprecedented increase from previous averages. The Ministry of Transport attributes this achievement to strategic planning under Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s government and represents growing international confidence in Iraqi airspace security and management.
Strategic Location Propels Iraq into Aviation Prominence
Iraq’s General Company for Air Navigation Services has successfully leveraged the country’s geopolitical advantage as a natural bridge between East and West. This strategic positioning has transformed Iraqi airspace into an indispensable corridor for global civil aviation, connecting continents through the shortest and most fuel-efficient routes. The company’s development of technical and technological capabilities aligns perfectly with Iraq’s central location, creating what officials describe as a “breathing lung for international air traffic.”
The progress reflects years of dedicated work to restore international confidence in Iraqi aviation infrastructure. Daily overflight numbers have steadily increased from 300 aircraft to the current 700+ daily crossings, with officials expecting further growth. This dramatic increase demonstrates Iraq’s successful reintegration into global aviation networks after decades of instability and restricted airspace access.
European Airlines Choose Iraqi Corridors for Efficiency
Major international carriers, including Air France, have selected Iraqi airspace as their preferred transit corridor, attracted by both geographical advantages and improved service quality. Abbas Al-Baydani, Director General of Air Navigation, highlighted that Iraqi air traffic controllers now demonstrate professional skills rivaling the best international systems, managing the unprecedented volume of traffic with “high efficiency and extreme precision.”
The enhanced reliability of Iraq’s air traffic management has made it an attractive alternative to traditional routes, particularly for European airlines seeking optimized flight paths to Asia and the Middle East. This shift not only validates Iraq’s aviation capabilities but also generates significant revenue through overflight fees—a valuable source of non-oil income for the nation’s economy.
Civilian Airspace Expansion Supports Growing Demand
In a strategic move to accommodate increased traffic, Iraqi authorities have expanded civilian airspace at the expense of military zones. This calculated reallocation has created wider and safer routes for commercial aircraft while increasing overall capacity. Aviation experts have described this as a “qualitative shift in airspace management according to the highest standards of joint use.”
The General Company for Air Navigation continues implementing modernization plans in coordination with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), focusing on upgrading takeoff and landing systems across Iraqi airports. These improvements complement the airspace management enhancements and further strengthen Iraq’s position in global aviation networks.
Transport Minister Razzaq Al-Saadawi’s close supervision of these developments has ensured alignment with international standards and practices. The ministry’s statement emphasized that this transformation positions Iraq as a reliable hub for international aviation, reflecting scientifically guided efforts to meet growing air traffic demands while maintaining the highest safety standards.
