Following the completion of all legal and international procedures, Sulaymaniyah International Airport has been officially renamed Jalal Talabani International Airport, effective today.

The airport announced on Thursday that, according to the latest decision by the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority, its official name has been changed to Jalal Talabani International Airport.

This decision was implemented as a tribute to President Mam Jalal, under whom the airport was built as part of the city's other strategic infrastructure.

Mohammed Sabir, President of the Jalal Talabani Foundation, stated that all procedures related to the renaming have been finalized. The airport's website and media platforms have been updated to reflect the new name. 

The process began on September 7, 2025, when Hussein Ali Hussein Al-Zubaidi, Director of the Iraqi Airports Administration, formally requested the Civil Aviation Authority to initiate the name change. 

A Historic Milestone Celebrating Jalal Talabani’s Legacy

This decision is regarded as a historic milestone that will enhance the airport’s capacity to serve citizens and travelers more effectively. It is also seen as a lasting tribute and memorial from President Jalal to the city of Sulaymaniyah, similar to other institutions bearing his name, such as universities and hospitals. 

Sulaymaniyah Airport’s History and Significance

Sulaymaniyah International Airport, established on November 29, 2003, spans 13.5 square kilometers and commenced operations on July 20, 2005, with President Jalal Talabani in attendance. It was granted international status on November 2, 2005, and began conducting international flights. 

The airport’s inaugural flight departed on July 20, 2005, marking a significant milestone. The first individual to travel internationally from the airport using an Iraqi passport was Sulaymaniyah resident Dilshad Muhammad Salih, born in 1957.