Emirates’ four weekly flights to Erbil will operate on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, served by an A330-200 aircraft in a combination of two class and three class configurations.
Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Emirates divisional senior vice president commercial operations, Centre, said:
“We have been closely observing the situation in northern Iraq and upon a comprehensive review of our operations as well as a detailed risk assessment that is in line with Emirates’ safety standards, we decided to recommence our services to Erbil.
This will help support the wider business community in resuming their activities in Erbil which had been disrupted by conflict.”
“As a precautionary measure, we are redirecting our flight path to and from Erbil, resulting in longer flight times for our passengers.
The safety of our passengers, crew and aircraft are taken extremely seriously and will not be compromised.”
Analyst Saj Ahmad said: “Emirates decision to restart services to Erbil will not have been taken lightly.
Given the presence of conflict in northern Iraq, security is key and Emirates will no doubt be taking as many precautions as it can to ensure the service to Erbil remains viable and we see that with their decision to make the flight longer to avoid any possible aerial threat to its aircraft.”
He added: “That said, Emirates will have no hang ups about stopping Erbil again if there is any deterioration in the security framework - but it's a fluid situation and its too early to tell how long Erbil will stay connected with Emirates.
“Emirates has prided itself on its safety and security and they'll have left no stone unturned in their assessment of serving Erbil.”