Iraq Reopens Civil Airspace to Flights After Brief Closure

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's civil aviation authority announced Monday that the country's airspace has reopened to flights, approximately 24 hours after it was closed for 72 hours due to rising regional security tensions. The Head of Iraq's Civil Aviation Authority, Bangen Rekani, said all commercial flights—including arrivals, departures, and transits through Iraqi airspace—were affected by the suspension. The authority stated it continuously reviewed the closure and provided direct operational updates to airlines and international aviation partners. The decision came as Middle Eastern carriers adjusted their routes in response to increasing geopolitical tensions and military activity across the region. The authority emphasized that aviation safety remained its top priority, with all airspace decisions based on real-time security assessments and technical reviews. The brief closure disrupted regional flight schedules, transit operations and passenger movements. Some airlines were forced to use alternative routes during the suspension period.