Iraq to launch direct flights from Kirkuk to Cairo

The landmark Cairo Tower and the Cairo Opera House are pictured in Cairo’s central island of Zamalek on October 6, 2025. Photo: AFP Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Kirkuk International Airport announced on Wednesday the launch of direct flights to the Egyptian capital, Cairo, starting October 4, 2026. The airport’s administration said in a statement that the step is part of efforts to expand the network of destinations and enhance air connectivity, the state-run Iraqi News Agency (INA) reported. The new development aims to provide direct travel options for passengers and strengthen air traffic between Kirkuk and Egypt, according to the statement. In early July, Iraqi Airways announced that it will start operating direct flights between Kirkuk and the Turkish city of Antalya on July 14, taking advantage of the peak tourist season during summer vacation. Director of Iraqi Airways, Manaf Abdul-Moneim, said that Iraqi Airways is expanding its destinations to provide more flexible travel alternatives to accommodate the increased demand throughout the summer season. The Iraqi national carrier is also growing its digital capabilities to improve passenger experience and stay up with the latest standards in the aviation industry. In mid-June, Iraqi Airways launched its online check-in service, allowing passengers to pick seats and get electronic boarding passes before arriving at the airport. The new service will allow travelers to electronically issue boarding passes and choose their seats before going to the airport using the company’s online application and website.