After a break of nearly two and a half years, the first direct flight from Istanbul to Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, has been carried out. Turkish Airlines (THY) has resumed its Istanbul–Sulaymaniyah flights, scheduled four times a week in both directions, providing a significant transportation convenience for both the local population and the business community.
The decision to resume the flights was made following the visit of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) President Nechirvan Barzani to Turkey, upon the instruction of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
THY Expands Its Destinations in Iraq to Six
Turkish Airlines has increased its number of destinations in Iraq to six by adding Sulaymaniyah to its existing flight network, which already includes Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil, Basra, and Kirkuk.
Initially, reciprocal flights will be operated on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with plans to increase the frequency to daily flights starting from 27 March 2026.
Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, made the following statement regarding the resumption of flights:
“We are delighted to resume flights to Sulaymaniyah, one of the most important cities in the region with its natural beauty, deep-rooted history, and cultural richness. These flights will not only expand our network but also contribute to strengthening the economic and social ties between Turkey and Iraq. We are pleased to once again carry our guests to Sulaymaniyah with our high safety, comfort, and service standards.”
A Fresh Boost to the Regional Economy
Ata Enver Hıdır, President of the Sulaymaniyah Association of Aviation and Tourism Companies, emphasised the great importance of resuming flights for the region, stating:
“The resumption of flights from Turkey to Sulaymaniyah will revitalise the city’s economy. Companies, offices, and tourism agencies will return to operation. During the suspension period, significant economic losses were experienced; this step will mark a new beginning for Sulaymaniyah.”
Strategic Contribution to Regional Connectivity
The reactivation of Turkish Airlines’ Sulaymaniyah route will not only facilitate travel but also strengthen regional trade, tourism, and cultural interaction.
This step is considered a strategic development in terms of reinforcing the air transport infrastructure between Turkey and Iraq and deepening their economic relations.
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