Turkish Airlines Reconnects Istanbul and Sulaymaniyah, Offering New Travel Opportunities to Iraq, Get the Details Here

Published on November 3, 2025

After a suspension for more than six months, Turkish Airlines is resuming its flights on the Istanbul–Sulaymaniyah route as of November 2, 2023. This is a noteworthy step not only for the airline, as it looks for opportunities to solidify its East–West traffic, but for Iraq, as it restores its first air gateway to the global market. Most importantly, the resumption of flights on this route improves the frequency of travel and the volume of trade to and from Iraq.

Beginning November 2, 2025, Turkish Airlines will operate a flight four times a week to the ISU from Istanbul Airport. These flights, aimed at ensuring regional business and tourism traffic, will operate on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Looking to the future, Turkish Airlines expects to introduce a more robust flight offerings with the planned addition of daily flights for March 27, 2025, in order to align with the anticipated increase in demand for summer travel.

A Long-Awaited Connection Restored

For many in Sulaymaniyah and surrounding regions, the return of direct flights from Istanbul represents much more than just the availability of air travel. It is a crucial link that facilitates tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Before the service was temporarily suspended in April 2023, Turkish Airlines was a vital connector for Iraqi travelers looking to reach Europe, North America, and beyond. Sulaymaniyah, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant Kurdish culture, stands to benefit greatly from this relaunch.

Prior to the disruption, Turkish Airlines was already well established in Iraq, maintaining flights to Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Kirkuk, and Najaf, making it one of the most prominent international carriers in the country. With the addition of Sulaymaniyah back to its network, Turkish Airlines now boasts six gateways across Iraq, reinforcing its strategy to be a leading player in the region’s air transport market.

Boosting Tourism and Cultural Connections

The resumption of flights to Sulaymaniyah holds significant implications for tourism in the region. Known for its stunning landscapes, ancient historical sites, and warm hospitality, Sulaymaniyah has long been a destination for those interested in exploring the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. However, the absence of a reliable international flight option had limited the growth of the tourism sector. Turkish Airlines’ return helps revitalize tourism by connecting the city to a vast network of international travelers, eager to experience Iraq’s cultural treasures.

Sulaymaniyah is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Sulaimani Museum, the Ahmad Awa Waterfall, and Mulla Mustafa Barzani’s Memorial. Additionally, its proximity to the mountains of Kurdistan offers travelers an opportunity to explore some of the most picturesque parts of Iraq. With Turkish Airlines offering direct flights from Istanbul — a major international hub — visitors from Europe, North America, and other parts of the Middle East can now travel more easily to experience the beauty and history of this unique region.

The increased accessibility will likely see foreign tourists flocking to Sulaymaniyah in the coming months, eager to explore the rich culture and natural wonders of the Kurdish region of Iraq. As global travel continues to recover, cultural tourism in regions like Sulaymaniyah will play a pivotal role in Iraq’s post-pandemic recovery.

Supporting Economic Growth and Trade Ties

Beyond tourism, the return of Turkish Airlines to Sulaymaniyah is expected to have significant economic benefits for both Iraq and Turkey. Turkish Airlines, one of the world’s leading airlines, serves as a conduit for trade, bringing business leaders, investors, and goods into the region. For Iraqi businesses, especially those in Sulaymaniyah, the direct flight service will open doors to enhanced trade opportunities with Turkey and the wider international market.

Sulaymaniyah, with its growing economy and strategic location within the Kurdistan Region, is becoming an increasingly important center for business and commerce. The presence of Turkish Airlines will facilitate travel for business executives, entrepreneurs, and investors looking to engage with local businesses. These enhanced links will contribute to the strengthening of economic ties between Turkey and Iraq, offering benefits such as business collaborations, investment opportunities, and the potential for export growth in both countries.

A Strong Commitment to Iraq and the Middle East

According to Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, the relaunch of the Sulaymaniyah flights is an important step towards expanding the airline’s influence in the Middle East. Bolat emphasized the cultural and economic significance of reconnecting Sulaymaniyah with the world, noting that the airline’s services will not only boost trade but will also strengthen cultural ties between Turkey and Iraq.

“We are glad to relaunch our Sulaymaniyah flights, connecting this destination which boasts rich cultural and natural heritage to the world with the comfort and hospitality of Turkish Airlines,” said Bolat. He further stated that Turkish Airlines aims to continue contributing to the trade and cultural ties between Turkey and Iraq, underscoring the airline’s role in regional development.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Travel in Sulaymaniyah

With the increase in flight frequency to daily service starting in March 2026, Turkish Airlines aims to further enhance connectivity between Istanbul and Sulaymaniyah, ensuring that the destination remains accessible to a broader range of travelers, including tourists, business professionals, and cultural exchange participants.

In addition, the convenience of direct flights will make it easier for Iraqis living abroad, especially in Turkey and Europe, to return home or visit loved ones. The reinstated air service will thus be a welcome development for families, diaspora communities, and the broader population of the region.

Strengthening Iraq’s Global Position

The reestablishment of flights by Turkish Airlines to Sulaymaniyah indicates how much value the region holds in world travel. Developing stronger economic, cultural, and tourism relations with Iraq, Turkish Airlines is positioning Sulaymaniyah as a prominent Middle Eastern hub.

Reconnecting Sulaymaniyah and Istanbul is a critical part of the region’s travel and tourism economic revitalization. With the Turkish airline’s expansion, trade relations and a more prospering tourism industry will positively impact both Iraq and Turkey economic growth.