A Flydubai aircraft became the first commercial flight to pass through Iraqi airspace after a suspension of around 40 days caused by heightened regional security tensions, Shafaq News reported on April 9.

A source at Iraq’s Civil Aviation Authority said that the UAE carrier’s aircraft crossed the country’s airspace on its way to Saudi Arabia, as most airlines continue to avoid large swathes of West Asia, according to flight data.

The source said the flight took a revised route, avoiding part of its previous path through Kuwaiti airspace, as a precaution against any potential security incident.

The development comes after Iraq’s Civil Aviation Authority announced on April 8 that it was reopening the country’s airspace and all airports to air traffic following a 40-day halt.

The authority said the move would allow the resumption of all civilian flights, including overflights, departures and landings at Iraqi airports, in line with approved regulations and instructions.

It also said it remained fully committed to applying the highest standards of aviation safety and security, in coordination with relevant international organisations, to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of air transport.

The suspension had been imposed amid escalating tensions in the region. Iraqi authorities moved to restore operations after US President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, in what was described as a step towards securing lasting peace in the region.

The resumption of flights through Iraqi skies is seen as an early sign of improving confidence in the security situation. However, airlines are still expected to proceed cautiously and may continue to adjust routes as a safeguard.