27 Feb 2018 | 09:41 AM UTC
Iraq: Kurdistan flight ban extended until May 31 /update 4
Iraqi federal government extends Kurdistan flight ban until May 31, requiring passengers to transit through Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Basra International Airport (BSR)
Event
The Iraqi federal government has extended the existing ban on international flights serving Kurdistan regional airports for an additional three months, i.e. until May 31. The extension of the ban will require travelers intending on traveling to or from Erbil (EBL) or Sulaimaniyah (ISU) international airports to connect through Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Basra International Airport (BSR) en route to their destination. These travelers will need to have a valid Iraqi visa as well as a Kurdistan visa.
Context
The ban was initially implemented in September 2017 following a controversial independence referendum, which was deemed unconstitutional by Baghdad and criticized by neighboring Iran, Turkey, and Syria (home to large Kurdish populations of their own). Since then, tensions between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) have remained high.
Advice
Individuals wishing to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan are advised to plan accordingly and contact their nearest Iraqi embassy or consulate for further information regarding visa requirements.
