Baghdad: The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority has firmly stated that it has not entered into any contracts with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), neither currently nor in the past. This announcement comes amidst clarifications related to a European ban affecting Iraqi airlines.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the authority issued a statement in response to comments made by Representative Zahra Al-Bajari, emphasizing that no contracts have ever been concluded with IATA. The statement further addressed the European ban that has been circulating, noting that it affects Iraqi Airways and Fly Baghdad. This ban is subject to automatic renewal every six months, pending compliance with the European Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) international standards and requirements.

The authority also highlighted its proactive measures to enhance air safety. It has engaged in contracts with experts from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other independent international experts. These collaborations aim to bolster the authority’s technical capabilities, allowing for effective monitoring of air navigation service providers, airlines, and airports across Iraq, thereby improving air safety in alignment with global standards.