Iraq lifts flight restrictions over western regions
Civilian flights are now permitted in airspace previously reserved for military operations, according to the Transport Ministry.
Iraq has opened western airspace to civilian flights after restrictions imposed during operations against Islamic State were lifted, according to the Transport Ministry.
Iraq has lifted flight restrictions over western parts of the country and handed control of the airspace to the national aviation authorities, the Transport Ministry said. Officials said the move, coordinated with the office of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, will allow authorities to redraw air routes and establish new civilian corridors. The restrictions were introduced in 2016 and 2017 during military operations against Islamic State. A ministry spokesperson said the decision was also part of preparations for the withdrawal of the international coalition and the transfer of airspace control to Iraqi authorities.