Three international airlines will resume flights to Erbil International Airport next month, boosting travel and commercial activity in the Kurdistan Region.
Ahmed Hoshyar, Director of Erbil International Airport, said that Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines will restart flights to Erbil on May 8, 2026.
He also said Qatar Airways has started preparations to resume operations. The airline plans to restart flights on May 10, 2026.
The return of these carriers is expected to support both tourism and trade in the Kurdistan Region. More international flights will improve travel options for residents, business travelers, and tourists.
Officials believe the move will make international travel easier for passengers using Erbil Airport. Travelers will gain access to more destinations and smoother flight connections through major regional hubs.
The reopening of these routes also marks an important step for the aviation sector in the Kurdistan Region. Increased airline activity can strengthen Erbil’s role as a major gateway for international business and travel.
The return of major carriers may also encourage more foreign visitors and investors to choose the region as a destination. Businesses that depend on international travel, including hotels, restaurants, and transport services, could also benefit from higher passenger traffic.
Erbil International Airport remains one of the region’s key transport hubs. The airport plays an important role in connecting the Kurdistan Region with major cities across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.
Officials say the resumption of flights reflects growing confidence in the region’s travel market. It also highlights efforts to expand international connectivity and support economic growth through stronger aviation links.
