Jordan, Iraq sign updated air services agreement

AMMAN — Jordan and Iraq on Thursday signed an updated air services agreement, opening a new chapter in their aviation cooperation.

Signed in Baghdad by Chairman of the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission Captain Haitham Misto and Iraqi Minister of Works, Housing and Public Municipalities and Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority Benkin Rekani, the agreement aims to enhance air services between the two countries, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

This new agreement replaces the 1953 agreement that facilitated regular air services between Jordan and Iraq, and is designed to reflect the latest developments in civil aviation. 

It also reflects the evolving aviation policies and national strategies of both countries.

The updated agreement will provide airlines from both countries with easier market access, offering benefits such as favourable tariffs and opportunities for code-sharing. 

It also promotes fair competition and ensures the implementation of International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.

An executive memorandum has also been signed to establish operational arrangements for air services on new and existing routes.

Major additions include the Aqaba-Iraq and Amman-Kirkuk routes, while the number of passenger flights between Amman and Baghdad and Amman and Erbil will be increased.

The agreement also increased the number of cargo flights between the two countries to meet growing demand, as well as new regulatory provisions for code-sharing operations.