US sanctions halt Iranian airline services to Iraqi airports
The United States Treasury sanctioned 27 Iranian airlines and threatened secondary sanctions on supporting entities, prompting Iraqi airport service companies to refuse service to Iranian planes. Flights from Iran to Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil and Sulaimaniya have been suspended, with only a limited one‑month exemption granted for pilgrimage flights from Najaf using Iraqi Airlines.
The US Treasury Department sanctioned 27 Iranian airlines on 8 September and threatened secondary sanctions on airports, fuel suppliers, ground service companies and other providers working with Iranian airlines.1 Iraqi airport service companies refused to provide services to Iranian planes, causing the suspension of flights from Iran to Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil and Sulaimaniya.1 The suspension has hindered the movement of pilgrims, students and patients, drawing criticism from Iraqi politicians and resistance groups.1 The Iraqi government secured a limited one‑month exemption from the US, and on 28 September 2026 the US issued a limited authorization allowing pilgrimage flights from Najaf with Iraqi Airlines, while Iranian airlines remain barred from Iraqi airspace.1 The sanctions and service refusals disrupt airline distribution and revenue for Iranian carriers and limit travel options for pilgrims and other passengers.1 Iraqi airports lose traffic and ancillary revenue due to the suspension of Iranian flights, affecting airport operations and commercial performance.1 Travel sellers offering pilgrimage packages face reduced inventory and may need to re‑route customers through Iraqi Airlines under the limited authorization.1