Basra Airlines’ “Shatt Al-Arab” Plane Opens New Era for Civil Aviation in Basra

Basra Governor Asaad Al-Eidani welcomed the inaugural aircraft of Basra Airlines, on Wednesday, which landed at Basra International Airport. The aircraft, named “Shatt Al-Arab,” signifies the airline’s official entry into the aviation sector and underscores Basra’s growing status as a key commercial and tourist hub.

Governor Al-Eidani described this development as a significant leap forward for the province’s civil aviation sector. He emphasized that the new fleet would enhance local, regional, and international connectivity, opening new horizons for investment, tourism, and air transport.

Basra Airlines was founded in 2023 by Chairman and CEO Moffak Sabir Hamad. The airline aims to position itself as a modern carrier, offering services that cater to both domestic and international travelers. The arrival of the “Shatt Al-Arab” marks the beginning of Basra Airlines’ operations, with plans to expand its fleet and network in the near future.

Basra International Airport, the second-largest airport in Iraq, serves as the primary hub for Basra Airlines. The airport has undergone significant renovations since its reopening in 2004, improving facilities and services to accommodate increasing passenger traffic.

The naming of the aircraft after the Shatt Al-Arab river, which flows through Basra, reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and its strategic location at the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This symbolic gesture highlights Basra’s commitment to enhancing its global presence and fostering economic growth through improved connectivity.