Iraqi Airways

Iraqi Airways is the national airline of Iraq, flying from Baghdad to the Middle East, Türkiye, Iran, the Indian subcontinent. It remains on the EU Air Safety List, so it cannot fly to the European Union. Economy fares usually include 30 kg of checked baggage and a 10 kg cabin bag, which is generous for the region. This guide covers power bank rules, check-in in Baghdad, pilgrimage travel and how it compares with Royal Jordanian and Turkish Airlines.

Founded in 1945, the airline is one of the oldest in the Middle East. It flies Boeing 737 and 777 aircraft and Airbus A320-family jets.

Power Bank Rules on Iraqi Airways

Iraqi Airways follows the ICAO power bank rules in force worldwide since 27 March 2026:

• Carry power banks in cabin baggage only, never in checked bags.
• Up to 100 Wh is allowed without approval; 100–160 Wh needs approval from the airline.
• A maximum of two power banks per passenger, kept within reach; no charging them, or devices from them, during the flight.

Check-In in Baghdad

Allow plenty of time at Baghdad, as security checks start at the airport entrance, well before the terminal. Arrive at least three hours before international flights and carry your passport and booking at every checkpoint.

Counters usually close 60 minutes before departure, and late passengers may be refused boarding.

Families and Special Assistance

Each adult can travel with one infant on their lap. Strollers and car seats are generally carried free for families. Request wheelchairs and other special assistance when you book.

Families with young children can usually board early. A second infant under two needs its own seat, which is sold at a child fare, and children travelling alone should be booked through the airline’s offices rather than online. Bring printed copies of passports and visas, as documents are checked several times before you reach the gate.

Pilgrimage Travel to Najaf and Karbala

Many travellers fly to Iraq to visit the holy cities:

• Najaf has its own airport, and Karbala is about an hour away by road.
• Demand rises sharply around Arbaeen and other religious events.
• Book early and check visa rules before you travel.

Domestic flights link Baghdad with Basra and Erbil and can save many hours compared with driving. Fares are usually low, but schedules change often, so check the timetable close to your travel date.

How to Find Cheap Iraqi Airways Flights

• Book early around Arbaeen and Eid, when fares rise.
• Compare Baghdad, Basra and Najaf for your trip.
• Make use of the generous baggage allowance instead of paying for extra bags.
• Check Istanbul and Dubai connections on other airlines.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see its fares next to Royal Jordanian, Turkish Airlines and others.

Iraqi Airways vs Royal Jordanian vs Turkish Airlines

Three full-service airlines on routes to and from Iraq.

See our Royal Jordanian guide and Turkish Airlines guide to compare.

Arriving in Baghdad

Baghdad International Airport is about 16 km west of the city centre. Travellers usually use pre-arranged taxis or hotel pick-ups, as there is no rail link.

Many nationalities can now get a visa on arrival or an eVisa for Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region in the north has its own entry rules. Check the latest advice from your government before you book, as conditions can change quickly.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is Iraqi Airways a Good Airline?

It is the main way to fly to Iraq from many cities, with generous baggage and a growing fleet, though service and punctuality can be less consistent than on larger airlines.

The airline has been renewing its fleet with new Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which are more comfortable and reliable than older jets. When booking, check which aircraft flies your route, and keep an eye on schedule changes, which are common. For long journeys, connecting through Istanbul, Dubai or Doha on a larger airline can be a good alternative, especially if you want lounge access or a frequent flyer programme.

For more options, see our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against Euronews on the June 2026 EU Air Safety List, BaggagePolicies.com’s 2026 guide. Rules change, so check the official website before you travel.