Air ticket prices in the Kurdistan Region have increased in recent weeks. Officials link the rise to regional instability and conflict. Airlines and tourism experts highlight security concerns, higher fuel costs, and falling demand.
The increase began on February 28, 2026. Conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran led Iraq to close its airspace. Authorities reopened it on April 10. However, flights have not returned to normal as of April 25.
Lavand Mamundi, Executive Director of Fly Erbil, said ticket prices rose by 25% to 30%. He explained that the airline is trying to limit further increases. The company aims to cover costs rather than make profits. Fly Erbil now operates daily flights to several countries.
These include Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Turkey. Mamundi added that summer ticket prices have not increased yet. Travelers can still book early at regular rates.
Idris Amedi, a representative of Wizz Air in Iraq, confirmed similar increases. He said prices rose by 20% to 25% across the region. He noted that a ticket from Erbil to Baghdad increased from 180,000 dinars to 215,000 dinars. This equals a rise from about $120 to $140. Umrah travel has also become more expensive. Round-trip tickets increased from $360 to $410.
Tourism activity has dropped sharply. Ribwar Azad, head of the Kurdistan travel agencies association, said group travel has stopped completely. Both domestic and international flights have declined.
Experts say higher insurance costs play a major role. Airlines now pay nearly double due to regional risks. Fuel prices have also risen sharply, from about $3 to $7 per gallon. Despite these challenges, officials expect gradual improvement if stability returns.
