Iraqi Airways Welcomes First Boeing 787 Dreamliner

BY Oliver Lester

In a momentous event held in Baghdad, Iraqi Airways and Boeing celebrated the delivery of the flag carrier’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This marks a pivotal moment for Iraqi Airways as it strives to modernize its fleet and elevate its long-haul capabilities, offering passengers enhanced comfort and efficiency. With an order for 10 787s, the airline aims to establish profitable growth and connect Iraq to an extensive network of international destinations.

Over the past few months, Iraqi Airways has already received four Boeing 737 MAX airplanes since February, with an additional order for six 737-8s and 10 737-10s. This strategic investment in the 737 family will bolster the airline’s regional and medium-haul operations, equipping its single-aisle fleet with advanced capabilities.

Director General of Iraqi Airways, Manaf Abdel-Monem, expressed his pride in taking delivery of the 787 Dreamliner, a remarkable aircraft with unparalleled capabilities. As air travel demand continues to rise both domestically and internationally, Iraqi Airways is committed to meeting the needs of its passengers with more efficient, capable, and comfortable airplanes. Abdel-Monem emphasized that the 787 and 737 MAX airplanes received are crucial to their fleet renewal program, ensuring that Iraqi Airways can provide a safe and modern travel experience that aligns with passengers’ expectations.

Currently serving more than 50 destinations from Baghdad, Iraqi Airways is actively expanding and upgrading its fleet to support the anticipated surge in international business and leisure travel to and from Iraq. The country’s increased stability and economic growth have propelled its annual gross domestic product growth rate, projected to reach 7% by the end of 2023. As global air traffic rebounds, Middle Eastern airlines have experienced a remarkable 40% increase in traffic compared to the previous year.

Omar Arekat, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for the Middle East, acknowledged that the delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner represents a new beginning for Iraqi Airways, enabling the airline to connect Iraq with the rest of the world. Boeing is fully committed to supporting Iraqi Airways’ aspirations in optimizing operations and exploring new route possibilities within the region. Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President Middle East, Türkiye and Africa for Boeing, emphasized the vital role of air transport in driving economic growth, fostering employment, facilitating trade, promoting tourism, and supporting sustainable development. Boeing is eager to lend support to the Iraqi government and private sector as they revitalize Iraq’s commercial fleet and modernize its aviation infrastructure.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Iraqi Airways’ latest addition, offers exceptional features that redefine air travel. With a typical two-class configuration accommodating up to 248 passengers, the Dreamliner can cover an impressive range of 7,305 nautical miles (13,530 km). Furthermore, the 787 family has achieved a remarkable 25% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions compared to its predecessors, resulting in a significant carbon emissions reduction of over 141 billion pounds since its introduction in 2011.

Boeing designed the 787 family with utmost efficiency, allowing airlines to establish profitable new routes while ensuring unparalleled passenger comfort. Since 2011, the 787 family has pioneered over 350 new non-stop routes worldwide, including more than 50 routes introduced since 2020.

Passengers traveling on the 787 Dreamliner can relish in an array of improvements. The aircraft boasts the largest windows among all jets, allowing for breathtaking views from every seat. The cabin offers improved humidity levels and reduced altitude, ensuring a more comfortable and refreshing travel experience. Ample overhead bin space, soothing LED lighting, and turbulence-sensing technology contribute to a smoother and enjoyable journey.

In addition to the 737-8 and 787-8, Iraqi Airways operates a diverse fleet comprising over 40 Boeing airplanes, including 737-800s, 747s, and 777s. These aircraft serve as the backbone of the airline, connecting Iraqi Airways to a wide range of destinations from Baghdad.

With the delivery of its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Iraqi Airways is poised to elevate its operations and connectivity on a global scale. Passengers can look forward to a future of enhanced travel experiences, as Iraqi Airways leads the way in meeting the growing demand for safe, efficient, and comfortable air travel.