The Iraqi Ministry of Transport confirmed on Thursday that Mosul International Airport is now fully operational and open to all airlines that hold the necessary approvals, following a successful trial operation conducted earlier in the day.

The trial included the landing of an Iraqi Airways Boeing 737 on the newly rehabilitated runway, marking a key milestone ahead of the airport's official inauguration scheduled for June 10.

A Milestone Led by Iraqi Efforts

In a statement to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Ministry spokesperson Maitham Al-Safi described the reopening as a "purely Iraqi achievement" carried out under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Transport and with the support of the Iraqi Airports and Air Navigation Authority, as well as local officials led by the Governor of Nineveh.

“This achievement reflects the government’s commitment to completing vital service projects,” Al-Safi said. “The success of the trial operation is a clear message that Mosul Airport is ready to begin operations on schedule.”

He noted that Iraqi Airways will be the first airline to operate flights to and from Mosul, adding that the Ministry stands ready to cooperate with other international carriers in accordance with ICAO and Iraqi government regulations.

Economic and Strategic Importance

Al-Safi emphasized the strategic significance of Mosul International Airport for Nineveh Governorate, Iraq’s second-most populous province. He described the project as a "qualitative leap" in connecting the governorate with the rest of Iraq and the world.

“The airport is a vital gateway for Nineveh and will contribute to reviving the region’s tourism, trade, and transport sectors,” he said. “It represents a new source of revenue for the national budget and will create job opportunities for the people of Nineveh.”

The project is part of the government’s broader plan to diversify Iraq’s economy and reduce reliance on oil by investing in infrastructure, tourism, and aviation.

High Technical Standards and National Vision

Hussein Ali Hussein, Director General of the Iraqi Airports Authority, praised the successful trial landing as a “historic moment,” noting that the airport was reconstructed to meet international technical standards.

“This airport was built with national spirit and Iraqi identity, under the direct patronage of the Prime Minister and close supervision by the Minister of Transport,” Hussein said. He highlighted the contribution of Iraqi technical staff from the Airports Management Department.

Mohammed Al-Aqili, Secretary of the Diwani Order Committee overseeing the airport’s reconstruction, echoed the sentiment, calling the project a “symbol of challenge and reconstruction” that reflects the government’s vision for a new era of development and economic openness.

Al-Aqili praised the cooperation between federal and local authorities, as well as security and administrative bodies, saying it serves as a model of effective institutional coordination.

“Mosul is witnessing a new chapter,” he added. “The airport will be a cornerstone for rebuilding the governorate’s economy and reconnecting it with the global community.”