Iraq resumes Iranian flights to Najaf with up to 40 daily services
After a week-long suspension, Iraq clears Iranian carriers to operate up to 40 flights per day to Najaf, excluding Mahan Air, following a US sanctions waiver.
Iranian airlines are permitted to restart operations to Najaf airport following a suspension lasting approximately one week. The Iraqi government has granted clearance for up to 40 flights daily between Iraq and Iran, according to reports by Reuters and The National.
This regulatory clearance excludes Mahan Air, an operator subject to United States sanctions. According to the office of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, the decision follows a waiver granted by the United States regarding its sanctions framework. The resumption primarily facilitates travel for Shiite pilgrims, as well as passenger transport for medical care and educational travel.
Iraq suspended air links to Iran last week under the pressure of US sanctions. This measure came after ground handling providers refused to handle Iranian flights to avoid potential penalties imposed by US authorities.
Why it matters for your training
Understanding international sanctions exemptions and ground handling restrictions is essential for flight crew operations and schedule reliability in Middle Eastern airspaces.
Sources
Article rewritten with the help of AI from the cited sources.