Erbil-Athens Direct Flights Launched, Strengthening Ties Between Kurdistan Region, Greece
At precisely 4 AM on Sunday, the inaugural flight from Athens touched down at Erbil International Airport, carrying 97 passengers. Shortly thereafter, a return flight departed from Erbil to Athens with 98 passengers on board.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a significant development for regional air travel, direct flights between Erbil International Airport and Athens International Airport commenced early this morning, marking a milestone in connectivity between the Kurdistan Region and Europe.
At precisely 4 AM on Sunday, the inaugural flight from Athens touched down at Erbil International Airport, carrying 97 passengers. Shortly thereafter, a return flight departed from Erbil to Athens with 98 passengers on board.
The launch of this new route underscores growing economic and cultural ties between the Kurdistan Region and Greece.
Speaking to Kurdistan24, Ahmed Hoshyar, General Director of Erbil International Airport, confirmed that flights on this route will operate twice weekly.
"We are working to increase the number of flights," he stated, indicating future plans to enhance air connectivity.
With this addition, the Kurdistan Region now enjoys direct air links with 21 countries. Notably, Athens is the closest European capital to Kurdistan, making this connection particularly strategic for travelers and businesses alike.
Nikolaos Stergioulas, Consul General of Greece in Erbil, emphasized the importance of this new route in strengthening ties between the two regions.
"We are happy that the first non-stop flight from Greece has arrived in Erbil," he stated during a press conference at the airport. "This bridge of connection will bring the people of Kurdistan Region and Greece closer together."
Stergioulas also expressed confidence that Kurdish travelers will appreciate the hospitality and high-quality services Greece offers. He further highlighted that Aegean Airlines, the airline operating these flights, has been recognized as the best regional airline in Europe for the past 13 years.
The establishment of direct flights between Erbil and Athens is expected to boost tourism, business exchanges, and diplomatic relations.
As the Kurdistan Region continues to expand its international connectivity, this new route marks another step toward strengthening its global presence.
