Turkish Airlines has reinstated its flights between Istanbul and Sulaymaniyah, nearly two years after suspending the route in April 2023, strengthening its footprint in Iraq and expanding international travel options for passengers. The flagship carrier, which flies to more countries than any other airline globally, now serves six destinations in Iraq — Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Kirkuk, Najaf, and Sulaymaniyah.
Beginning November 2, 2025, flights will operate four times weekly — on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays — between Istanbul Airport and Sulaymaniyah International Airport. The airline plans to scale the service to daily flights from March 27, 2026, under its summer schedule. Introductory fares start at USD 325, with access to Turkish Airlines’ network covering 355 destinations across 131 countries.
Turkish Airlines Chairman Prof. Ahmet Bolat said the relaunch underlined the carrier’s commitment to deepening trade and cultural ties between Türkiye and Iraq while offering passengers enhanced global connectivity.
Aviation sector watchers in Kolkata say Middle Eastern and European connections have surged in demand among eastern India’s business and leisure travellers, and the relaunch of the Sulaymaniyah route strengthens global travel options. With increasing passenger movement from Kolkata to Gulf hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul, industry analysts note that wider Iraqi access could particularly benefit migrant workers, traders, and transit passengers from the city seeking smoother connections to West Asia.
Turkish Airlines has advised travellers to check its website or contact sales offices for schedule and fare details.
