Emirates boosts Iraq operations

Friday, 20 January 2012 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Dubai carrier Emirates has announced a 75 per-cent additional capacity increase between Dubai and Baghdad, growing its services to seven flights per week in a move to support developing Iraqi business segments.

Starting from February 2, EK941 flight will depart daily from Dubai at 7:55am touching down at Baghdad International Airport at 9:40am the same day. At 11:35am, the return flight EK942 will depart Baghdad arriving in Dubai at 14:55pm the same day.

‘Since launching flights to the Iraqi capital three months ago our operations have gone from strength to strength, on both the passenger and cargo side,’ said Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Gulf, Middle East and Iran.

‘There is a significant demand for travel in and out of Baghdad and this new daily service offers a significant boost to this strategically important route for Emirates,’ he noted.

Emirates’ additional flights are a key element in supporting Iraq’s rebuilding efforts. In particular the UAE has a significant interest in promoting trade and investment with Iraq, as highlighted by the latest trade figures released by the Iraqi Embassy, he added.

According to Iraqi Embassy officials, the volume of investments of UAE companies in Iraq reached $3 billion by the end of 2010 and is expected to rise to $6 billion in the coming years.

“We thank Iraqi government for their trust and will work hand in hand with the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority to continue supporting the country’s booming business sectors,” said Khoory.

According to him, Emirates SkyCargo too will continue to play a critical role in transporting important commodities into Iraq including, foodstuffs, medical products, spare parts and telecommunication equipment.

The extra flights will increase existing capacity by 75 per cent per week in both directions, making it easier for both business and leisure travellers in Baghdad to connect to Emirates’ network of global destinations.

Popular destinations will include; the GCC, Levant, India, China, US and the UK via Dubai, he added.-