Iraqi Airways on Saturday announced the resumption of direct flights between Baghdad and Moscow and between Baghdad and Beijing, after a suspension of several years.

The first flight to Moscow is scheduled for July 16, with flights set to take place twice a week on Saturdays and Tuesdays. 

The resumption comes in response to directives from Transport Minister Razzaq Mohibis al-Saadawi, emphasizing the route's importance to the Iraqi community in Russia, according to Iraqi Airways Director General Manaf Abdul Munim. 

Similarly, Iraqi Airways has begun direct flights to Beijing, launching the first flight on Saturday from Baghdad International Airport to Beijing Daxing International Airport. 

This route, the second direct link between Iraq and China after Guangzhou, will operate twice a week. 

Flights will depart Baghdad on Saturdays and Tuesdays and return from Beijing on Sundays and Wednesdays. 

The airline will employ its Dreamliner aircraft for the long-haul flights.

“The resumption of this vital route between Iraq and China, which is the second of its kind after Guangzhou, is an important step, especially since it will open new horizons for mutual cooperation between the two countries,” Abdul Munim stated.

In an effort by the Iraqi government to enhance Iraqi Airways’ performance, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani recently chaired a meeting to discuss lifting the European ban on Iraqi Airways. 

The committee reviewed steps to meet international standards, including modernizing the airline, automating sections, maintaining aircraft, and enhancing staff capabilities.

Sudani emphasized the importance of complying with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements and warned of legal actions against non-compliance. 

Since 2015, Iraqi Airways has worked with the Civil Aviation Authority and Boeing to lift the ban, with significant government support. 

In recent years, efforts have focused on meeting EASA requirements and improving aviation standards, with ICAO praising Iraq's progress and pledging support.