Iraq adds 13 aircraft, returns 14 to service in push to modernize fleet

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Transport announced Saturday that 13 new aircraft have been added to the country’s aviation fleet, while 14 previously grounded planes have been returned to service.

“The ministry has developed a comprehensive plan to increase the number of aircraft through contracts with international aviation companies,” ministry spokesperson Maytham Al-Safi told the Iraqi News Agency.

The new additions include five Airbus A220s, six Boeing 737 Max aircraft, and two Boeing B787-8 Dreamliners.

Al-Safi said eight more Dreamliners and 10 additional 737 Max aircraft are scheduled for phased delivery, bringing the total number of new planes expected by 2027 to 31.

He also noted that 14 out of 24 grounded aircraft have already been restored to service, with the remaining planes to be reintegrated according to a pre-arranged schedule.

“These are high-quality aircraft from reputable international manufacturers,” Al-Safi said, adding that Iraqi Airways currently operates a fleet of 39 planes.

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