Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Baghdad, Iraq 🇮🇶, on June 26, 2025, after a 13-year break. This move follows improved security conditions and signals a new chapter for travel, business, and diplomatic ties between Turkey and Iraq 🇮🇶.
The airline’s Director General, Bilal Eksi, announced the decision on June 24, 2025, confirming that flights to both Baghdad and Erbil would restart. Turkish Airlines had stopped flights to Iraq 🇮🇶 and other countries in June 2025 after a regional conflict, but now operates several direct flights each week between Istanbul and Baghdad. As of July 29, 2025, travelers can book round-trip economy tickets starting at TRY14,246 (about USD 430). Flights depart from Istanbul Airport and land at Baghdad International Airport, with a travel time of just over three hours.
Other airlines, including Fly Baghdad, Iraqi Airways, and UR Airlines, also serve this route. Turkish Airlines offers Economy and Business Class, but not Premium Economy or First Class. Tickets can be purchased through the Turkish Airlines website or authorized agents, with prices changing based on demand and season.
Baghdad remains a high-risk destination. While it is not currently the world’s most dangerous city by homicide rate, security concerns like terrorism, armed conflict, and crime persist. Most Western governments advise against non-essential travel to Baghdad, urging travelers to register with their embassies and follow strict safety measures.
The return of Turkish Airlines flights is important for several groups:
- Travelers and businesses now have easier access to direct flights, supporting business, family visits, and humanitarian work.
- The Iraqi government views the resumption as a step toward economic recovery and normal relations.
- Turkish authorities, including the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, see this as a sign of growing stability and a chance to rebuild commercial ties.
No new visa or entry rules have been announced with the flight resumption. However, travelers must still secure a valid Iraqi visa before departure. Requirements depend on nationality, so it’s important to check the latest information from official sources, such as the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority.
For those planning to fly with Turkish Airlines to Baghdad, here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check travel advisories from your home country.
- Book tickets through the Turkish Airlines website or trusted agents.
- Obtain a valid Iraqi visa before travel.
- Arrange secure ground transport in Baghdad.
- Arrive early at the airport for extra security checks.
- Register your trip with your embassy in Iraq 🇮🇶.
Turkish Airlines and Turkish officials will keep monitoring the situation in Iraq 🇮🇶. If security worsens, flights could be suspended again. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this move may also encourage other airlines to reconsider flights to Iraq 🇮🇶 if stability continues.
Travelers should stay alert, follow official advice, and prepare carefully when flying to Baghdad.
Learn Today
Turkish Airlines → National carrier of Turkey, operating international flights including recent routes to Baghdad and Erbil.
Baghdad International Airport → Main airport serving Baghdad, Iraq, where Turkish Airlines flights land from Istanbul.
Iraqi visa → Official permission required for foreign nationals to enter Iraq, varies by nationality and purpose.
Regional conflict → Localized warfare or disputes causing earlier flight suspensions and impacting security conditions in Iraq.
Travel advisories → Government-issued warnings about safety risks in foreign destinations affecting travel decisions.
This Article in a Nutshell
Turkish Airlines restarted direct flights to Baghdad after 13 years, signaling improved security. Economy tickets begin at USD 430. Travelers must get Iraqi visas and follow safety advisories carefully for business or family visits amid ongoing risks.
— By VisaVerge.com
