Sanctioned Iranian airlines have resumed flights between Iran and the holy Shia city of Najaf in Iraq following a US sanctions waiver granted to Baghdad, borsaitaliana.it reported. The first commercial flight, operated by Caspian Airlines, touched down at Najaf International Airport at 5:15 PM local time on October 4, 2026, marking a direct restoration of air travel between the two neighboring countries.
US Sanctions Waiver Authorizes Daily Flights to Iraq
The resumption follows economic measures enacted by the United States at the beginning of September, which placed the entire Iranian aviation sector under sweeping sanctions designed to isolate Tehran. To accommodate religious travel to one of Shia Islam’s most revered shrines, the Iraqi government secured an agreement permitting Iranian carriers to operate up to 40 flights daily to and from Najaf International Airport. Airport director Hussein Muhanna confirmed the return of the route as the Caspian Airlines service arrived.
Iraqi Airways Obtains Counterpart Exemption
Washington granted a corresponding sanctions waiver to Iraqi Airways earlier in the week, allowing the airline to maintain regular flight operations directly serving destinations inside Iran. While the 40-daily-flight quota accommodates the majority of Iranian carriers operating through Najaf, the current US-brokered arrangement explicitly excludes Mahan Air from utilizing the newly opened air corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Najaf Flight Resumption
Which Iranian airline operated the first flight back to Najaf?
Caspian Airlines operated the initial flight, which landed at Najaf International Airport at 5:15 PM local time on October 4, 2026.
How many flights are permitted daily under the US waiver?
The agreement between Iraq and the United States authorizes Iranian carriers to operate up to 40 flights per day to and from Najaf International Airport.
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