In the heart of the Middle East, Iraq stands as a destination rich in cultures and ancient history. With the growth of the travel and aviation sector, Iraq’s airports have become an important part of the region’s aviation infrastructure. These airports are not only travel hubs but also serve as key connection points between Iraq and the outside world. From Baghdad International Airport, which is the largest and most important, to other city airports such as Erbil and Basra, these facilities demonstrate significant development in air transportation.
With the continuous advancement of the travel and aviation sector in Iraq, the Sindibad team is working to highlight the importance of Iraqi airports as an essential part of the travel experience for passengers. Through this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the most prominent airports in Iraq, starting from Baghdad International Airport to the others.
And if you need to book a flight from any airport in Iraq, Sindibad is here to serve you and make your journey as smooth as possible. You can easily make your booking online through our app or website.
Baghdad International Airport Code: (BGW)
[Baghdad International Airport Flight Schedule]
Baghdad International Airport is the largest and most important airport in Iraq, located 16 kilometers west of the capital, Baghdad. It serves as the main operational hub for Iraqi Airways and accommodates numerous international and domestic flights, making it a vital connection point between Iraq and the world.
The airport was established between 1979 and 1982 with the assistance of French and British companies, and it was designed for both civilian and military use. Over the years, the airport has undergone several infrastructure improvements to better meet the needs of passengers and expand its services.
In recent years, Iraqi authorities have worked on expanding the main road leading to the airport and removing many security checkpoints to simplify access to departure halls. These upgrades also included renovating facilities to align with international standards and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
The airport contains three main terminals: Babylon, Nineveh, and Samarra. These terminals feature jet bridges to ease passenger boarding onto aircraft. Facilities have been upgraded to be more advanced and meet travelers’ needs, including dedicated lounges for VIP guests.
Baghdad International Airport receives flights to and from many cities in the Gulf region such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as destinations in Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria. Passengers can also travel to Tehran (Imam Khomeini International Airport) and Mashhad (Mashhad International Airport), strengthening air links with Iran, one of Iraq’s closest destinations. Other destinations include Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, and Delhi.
The airport also serves as a major hub for many international airlines. Airlines operating flights from and to the airport include Iraqi Airways, Flydubai, EgyptAir, Emirates, and others. It connects numerous destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, reinforcing its role as an international travel hub.
Baghdad International Airport is a vital center for both passenger and cargo transportation. According to statistics, the number of passengers reached 3,222,081 in 2018, and the airport continues to serve thousands of travelers annually, in addition to providing air cargo services for importers and exporters.
Baghdad International Airport represents the lifeline of Iraq’s air travel network and serves as a crucial gateway connecting Iraq to the outside world, with continuous development in its infrastructure and services.
Erbil International Airport Code: (EBL)
[Erbil International Airport Flight Schedule]
Erbil International Airport is one of the most prominent airports in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and is the third-largest airport in the country in terms of passenger traffic. It is located in the city of Erbil and serves as a major connection point for travelers arriving in the region.
Erbil International Airport was opened in mid-2005 after previously being used for military purposes. The construction of the airport was funded by the Kurdistan Regional Government at a cost of 550 million USD. The airport features an advanced architectural design capable of accommodating modern aircraft such as the Airbus A380.
Thanks to its location near downtown Erbil, the airport is a convenient choice for travelers, reducing long travel times to and from the airport. Its strategic location also helps minimize environmental impacts caused by vehicle traffic. The airport is equipped with the latest environmental systems to handle weather fluctuations effectively.
Erbil International Airport receives flights to and from numerous international destinations, including Gulf countries such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as Egypt and Lebanon. Airlines operating at the airport include Iraqi Airways, Emirates, EgyptAir, Flydubai, and Turkish Airlines.
The airport also connects Erbil with several European cities such as Vienna and Düsseldorf, in addition to regional destinations like Damascus and Beirut.
The airport welcomes a large number of international and domestic passengers and is also a major hub for air cargo services. Specialized cargo companies operate regular flights to various regions, supporting both regional and international trade.
Erbil International Airport is one of the more modern airports in Iraq, with ongoing development in its infrastructure and services. It serves as an important link between the Kurdistan Region and the rest of the world.
Najaf International Airport Code: (NJF)
[Najaf International Airport Flight Schedule]
Najaf International Airport is an international airport located east of the city of Najaf. It is considered one of the most prominent airports in Iraq and serves as an important hub for travelers arriving in Najaf, one of the most significant religious cities in the country.
The airport was established on July 20, 2008, on a former military airbase. Since its opening, it has become a key center for air transport, especially due to the high volume of air traffic during religious visitation seasons. The airport is equipped with modern facilities to meet passenger needs and receives regular international flights in addition to its domestic services.
The airport has undergone numerous upgrades and expansions to meet the increasing demand for flights during peak visitation seasons. The aircraft parking apron has been expanded to increase capacity, and the passenger terminal has been developed to accommodate more travelers, along with additional aircraft stands. Continuous improvements are made to the airport’s internal transportation services in line with international airport standards.
Najaf International Airport receives flights to and from many cities in Iran, such as Mashhad International Airport and Imam Khomeini International Airport, in addition to other destinations in Lebanon and Egypt. The airport also operates flights to Dubai and Beirut through airlines such as Emirates and Flydubai. Iraqi Airways also runs flights to many regional and international cities.
The airport receives numerous passengers from around the world, especially during religious pilgrimage seasons to the holy city of Najaf. It also offers air cargo services for airlines wishing to transport goods to regional and international destinations.
Najaf International Airport is known for its high-quality emergency medical services, with a fully equipped medical center to ensure passenger safety. The medical center provides emergency support for travelers and works in coordination with ambulance services. Medical assistance is also available for individuals with special needs or those requiring medical support during travel.
Najaf International Airport is a vital transportation hub in Iraq, serving both domestic and international travelers effectively. With the ongoing expansion of its infrastructure and services, the airport continues to play an important role in facilitating travel to and from the holy city.
Basra International Airport Code: (BSR)
[Basra International Airport Flight Schedule]
Basra International Airport is an international airport located northwest of the city of Basra, just 20 kilometers from the city center. It is the fourth-busiest airport in Iraq and serves as a vital connection point to many regional and international destinations.
Originally a military airbase from 1921 until 1938—when the Royal Maqil Airport was opened—Basra International Airport was constructed in the 1960s and further developed in the 1980s. The airport was closed for a long period due to military conflicts in the region but was reopened in 2005. Following its reopening, domestic flights between Basra and Baghdad resumed, and the airport has since experienced increasing activity.
Basra International Airport continues to experience steady development in its infrastructure and services. The airport features a modern business center and conference halls equipped with advanced technologies. Its meteorological center is also considered one of the most advanced in the region.
Basra International Airport receives flights to and from many international destinations, including Dubai, Beirut, and Cairo. Airlines operating at the airport include Iraqi Airways, Emirates, Flydubai, and Turkish Airlines. The airport also offers flights to cities such as Istanbul, Damascus, and Erbil.
The airport serves a large number of international travelers, with a variety of flights serving passengers heading to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. It also provides air cargo services, contributing to the strengthening of commercial and economic activity in the region.
Basra International Airport is known for offering high-quality services to travelers, including business centers, advanced waiting lounges, and modern aircraft monitoring systems. It serves as a central hub for many companies involved in air cargo and travel throughout the region.
Basra International Airport is a vital lifeline for southern Iraq, offering advanced services and flights that support commercial and tourism mobility. With ongoing development, the airport remains at the forefront of Iraqi airports facilitating connections between Iraq and the rest of the world.
Sulaymaniyah International Airport Code: (ISU)
[Sulaymaniyah International Airport Flight Schedule]
Sulaymaniyah International Airport is located northeast of the city of Sulaymaniyah, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center. It is an essential hub for travelers heading to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and serves numerous domestic and international flights.
The foundation stone for the airport building was laid in November 2003, and it officially opened in mid-2005. The airport reflects a unique local character and stands out by offering services to many international destinations.
The airport covers an area of 13.5 km² and features a 3,500-meter runway, allowing it to accommodate large aircraft. It is considered one of the modern airports in Iraq and continues to evolve to meet the needs of travelers in the region while enhancing the quality of services provided.
Sulaymaniyah International Airport receives flights to and from numerous international destinations, including Turkey, Jordan, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Airlines operating at the airport include Iraqi Airways, Flydubai, Mahan Air, and Turkish Airlines. The airport also operates flights to Istanbul, Dubai, Beirut, and other major cities.
The airport serves a significant number of international passengers and acts as an important link between the Kurdistan Region and the world. It also provides air cargo services, helping facilitate commercial movement in the region.
Sulaymaniyah International Airport is one of the leading airports in northern Iraq, continuing to offer a wide range of services to both international and domestic travelers, with ongoing upgrades to its infrastructure and facilities.
Kirkuk International Airport Code: (KIK)
[Kirkuk International Airport Flight Schedule]
Kirkuk International Airport is located in Kirkuk Governorate in northern Iraq and is considered one of the vital facilities serving the region. The airport acts as an important connection point between the city of Kirkuk and other areas across Iraq.
Kirkuk International Airport was officially opened on October 16, 2022, after the military Kirkuk Air Base was converted into a civilian airport.
The airport currently accommodates around 500,000 passengers annually, with increased air traffic expected during Hajj and Umrah seasons. It is anticipated to serve travelers from the governorates of Kirkuk, Diyala, Salah Al-Din, and Nineveh. Future expansion plans aim to meet the growing needs of passengers in these areas.
Although newly operational, Kirkuk International Airport is emerging as a vital connection point within Iraq. It is expected to grow in the future to include both international and domestic flights, ultimately serving travelers from various parts of the country.
The airport is expected to receive a rising number of domestic and international passengers, especially during religious visitation seasons and periods of increased cargo demand. It contributes to enhancing mobility in the region while offering cargo services for transporting goods across Iraqi cities.
Kirkuk International Airport is one of the newest projects aimed at boosting mobility in northern Iraq, with future expansion planned to serve more passengers and businesses.
Mosul International Airport Code: (OSM)
Mosul International Airport is located in the city of Mosul, the capital of Nineveh Governorate, about 5 kilometers from the city center. The airport is a strategic hub connecting Mosul to domestic and international air transport networks, making it one of the key airports in northern Iraq.
Mosul International Airport was established in 1920. In 1922, it was converted into a civilian airport and continued operating until 2003. It was handed over to the Iraqi government in 2008 after redevelopment efforts to meet international standards. However, the airport experienced a long period of closure due to wars and crises.
The Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced the official reopening of Mosul International Airport on 16 July 2025. This opening represents a strategic step toward reconnecting Mosul with domestic and international air travel networks, supporting travel and trade in northern Iraq.
Iraqi Airways, Turkish Airlines, Royal Jordanian, and Emirates are expected to begin operating flights to and from Mosul International Airport soon. The airport is anticipated to bring a significant transformation to air travel in the region and enhance economic and tourism links.
Mosul International Airport is expected to continue developing its services to include more domestic and international flights. The project is also expected to expand to include additional service facilities, such as air cargo operations and aircraft parking areas, enhancing its capacity to handle increasing air traffic in the future.
Mosul International Airport represents an important step toward revitalizing the city and reconnecting it with the outside world. With its reopening and ongoing infrastructure development, it is expected to play a key role in supporting trade and tourism in northern Iraq.
Karbala International Airport Code: (KIB)
Karbala International Airport is located in Karbala Governorate in central Iraq, situated between the cities of Najaf and Karbala, about 32 km southeast of Karbala city. The airport is one of the major projects aimed at facilitating access to the holy city, especially during large pilgrimage seasons.
The foundation stone for Karbala International Airport was laid in January 2017 by Sheikh Abdul Mahdi Al-Karbalai, the legal representative of the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine. The British company Copperchase Ltd. undertook the construction of the airport, while the French Groupe ADP was responsible for its design. The airport spans a vast area of 42 million square meters. After facing major challenges and extending the construction timeline, the airport is now nearing completion to begin receiving visitors.
Karbala International Airport features advanced facilities, including a 4.5 km main runway—the longest in Iraq—along with a modern control tower. It also includes a fully prepared airfield and a 6 km taxiway network. The airport has two terminals with a total area of 42,000 square meters, and a capacity of 4 million passengers annually.
The runway is designed to accommodate the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft.
Karbala International Airport is expected to begin receiving flights in the near future. Iraqi Airways and several regional carriers are anticipated to operate regular flights to and from the airport. The airport is also expected to attract international airlines to strengthen air connectivity with other countries.
Special facilities are also planned to accommodate the influx of pilgrims during the Arbaeen pilgrimage season.
Karbala International Airport represents a significant milestone in serving visitors heading to the shrine of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), especially during major events such as the Arbaeen Pilgrimage, which attracts millions of visitors from within Iraq and abroad every year.
The airport will greatly facilitate the movement of pilgrims and boost religious tourism in Iraq.
The airport is expected to continue expanding its capacity in the future to meet increasing travel demands. With preparations nearing completion, it is poised to become one of Iraq’s leading projects reflecting the country’s commitment to developing infrastructure that serves pilgrims and supports their journeys to the holy sites.
Karbala International Airport represents a major step forward in easing access to the holy city and enhancing Iraq’s status as a global religious and tourism destination.
Nasiriyah International Airport is located in Dhi Qar Governorate in southern Iraq. The airport is a vital point that will serve the southern region of the country and is situated at a close distance from the city of Nasiriyah.
The idea of establishing Nasiriyah International Airport began in 2012 when the Iraqi government approved the use of Imam Ali Air Base for civilian flights. The civilian section of the airport was opened in March 2017, when the first Iraqi Airways aircraft landed.
Despite the opening, the airport struggled to develop due to limited promotion and the lack of proper upgrades and expansions. As a result, local residents preferred to travel through Basra International Airport for domestic and international flights, leading to a halt in air operations for some time.
In June 2021, the Iraqi government signed a contract with a Chinese state-owned construction company to rehabilitate and rebuild Nasiriyah International Airport at a cost of $367 million.
The airport covers 16 million square meters, with 2 million square meters of construction. It is expected to accommodate 750,000 passengers annually in its first phase, with plans to expand its capacity to 2 million passengers per year in the second phase.
The project also includes a 100-room hotel for travelers, conference and event halls, and restaurants to meet passenger needs.
For now, the airport is expected to operate flights to and from Baghdad International Airport and Erbil International Airport through Iraqi Airways. With the completion of the reconstruction project, the airport will receive additional flights from both local and international airlines.
Nasiriyah International Airport is expected to play an important role in facilitating travel in southern Iraq, enhancing commercial and tourism activity in Dhi Qar Governorate and surrounding areas. With the completion of reconstruction and expansion, the airport will become a major connecting point for both domestic and international travelers.
In conclusion, the aviation sector in Iraq is considered one of the fundamental pillars of economic and social growth. With the continued development of airports and the expansion of new projects such as Karbala and Nasiriyah airports, these upgrades will contribute to facilitating passenger movement and enhancing the overall travel experience. This progress strengthens Iraq’s position as a regional aviation hub.
With these improvements, Iraq opens new horizons for trade and tourism, and Sindibad remains always ready to provide the best services to its customers—from online flight bookings to hotel reservations—to ensure a comfortable and safe travel experience.
The nearest active airport to Karbala is Najaf International Airport, which is located about 80 km from the city. It is a major destination for visitors traveling to Najaf and Karbala during religious pilgrimage seasons, offering both international and domestic flights.
After Karbala International Airport opens, it is expected to operate flights to several domestic and international destinations, particularly to countries such as Iran (Mashhad, Tehran) and various Gulf states, to meet the high demand for air travel during major religious visitation seasons.
It is expected that Karbala International Airport will not be fully completed before the Arbaeen pilgrimage season. Although the project is in advanced stages, initial operations will likely be gradual, with only some facilities opening at first.
If flights are available, you can easily book airline tickets from any airport in Iraq via Sindibad. Simply select your travel date and destination, then choose one of the available flights to complete your booking through our website or mobile app.
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