Emirates to launch Baghdad route

Friday, 14 October 2011 03:45 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Emirates will launch its Dubai-Baghdad route on November 13, making the Iraqi capital its 115th international destination.

Emirates held a gala dinner in Baghdad on 11 October to mark the occasion.

“Baghdad has been on our wish list for some time and we are now ready for our launch on the 13th November,” said Ahmed Khoory, Emirates senior vice president, Commercial Operations Gulf, Middle East and Iran.

“The excellent turnout at this evening’s reception is indicative of how positively Emirates is perceived in the local market. With much of the country’s manufacturing, finance and commerce concentrated in and around Baghdad, our new service will play a central role in linking the city with the broader business community.”

The launch of Baghdad will be Emirates’ second gateway into Iraq after Basra, which started in February this year.

“Basra has been a very successful first foray into Iraq for Emirates. Our passenger loads have been consistently strong and we are confident that these positive booking numbers will also be reflected in our forthcoming Baghdad operation,” added Khoory.

Emirates will operate an Airbus 330 between Dubai and Baghdad, in a three-class configuration. EK941 will depart Dubai at 07:55am touching down at Baghdad International Airport at 09:40am the same day. At 11:35am, return flight EK942 will depart Baghdad arriving in Dubai at 14:55pm the same day.

The service will operate on a Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.