Baghdad — Iraq and the European Union have agreed to hold urgent aviation talks in Baghdad. The Iraqi Airways EU flight ban will dominate the technical discussions. Officials hope the sessions will clarify the steps needed to restore European routes.
Transport Minister Wahb Al-Hasani met EU Ambassador Klemens Semtner on Tuesday. Wim Rimbaud, the EU Delegation’s cooperation chief, also attended the meeting. They discussed a defined roadmap for aviation safety and administrative compliance.
Iraqi Airways has faced European operating restrictions since 2015. The EU imposed the measures over shortcomings in safety oversight. The airline cannot operate flights to, from, or over EU airspace.
The upcoming meetings will involve aviation specialists from both sides. European Union Aviation Safety Agency experts will participate in the process. Iraq’s Civil Aviation Authority will present updated operational records and safety documentation.
The parties plan to examine pilot training procedures and aircraft maintenance systems.Additionally, They will also review whether Iraqi Airways meets international operational standards. The EU will decide whether the evidence satisfies its operating requirements.
Iraq has focused on completing preparations for the IATA Operational Safety Audit. It also seeks the required Third Country Operator certificate. Those milestones could support a future return to European destinations.
Minister Al-Hasani called the matter a major government priority. He said direct European flights could strengthen Iraq’s international partnerships.However, Improved connectivity may also support passenger travel, business activity, and cargo movement.
The Iraqi Airways EU flight ban also carries wider economic importance for Baghdad. Officials link aviation progress to the country’s Development Road project. The project aims to connect Gulf trade routes with Europe through Iraq.
The Development Road includes planned rail and highway connections across the country. However, Iraqi leaders view international aviation links as a complementary part of that strategy. Better transport connections could increase Iraq’s role in regional commerce.
Ambassador Semtner welcomed the ministry’s efforts to meet aviation standards. He said the EU supports durable economic and infrastructure cooperation with Iraq. As well as, The Iraqi Airways EU flight ban now depends on technical progress and regulatory approval.