(MENAFN) Turkey's national airline, Turkish Airlines, has resumed its regular services to the Iraqi city of Sulaymaniyah, which had been halted in April 2023.

In a statement released on Monday, the carrier, which already serves Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil, Basra, and Kirkuk, confirmed that the addition of the Sulaymaniyah route brings its total destinations in Iraq to six.

Ahmet Bolat, chairman of the board of directors and executive committee of Turkish Airlines, emphasized the significance of Sulaymaniyah, describing it as “one of the most important cities in the region with its natural beauty, deep-rooted history, and cultural richness.”

Bolat highlighted that the resumption of these flights will not only broaden the airline’s regional network but also enhance economic and social connections between Turkey and Iraq.

He stated: “We are delighted to welcome our guests back to Sulaymaniyah with our safe, comfortable, and high service standards.”

Initially, flights will operate four times a week, on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, linking Istanbul Airport with Sulaymaniyah International Airport.

Starting March 27, 2026, the service will be upgraded to daily operations, further strengthening travel and commerce between the two cities.

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