Turkish Airlines, the world’s most internationally connected airline, has resumed flights between Istanbul and Sulaymaniyah, reinforcing its strategic growth plans in Iraq after an 18-month suspension. The service, halted in April 2023, returns as the carrier strengthens its presence with six gateways across Iraq — Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Kirkuk, Najaf, and now Sulaymaniyah.
The relaunched route commenced on November 2, 2025, with four weekly flights operating on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays between Istanbul Airport and Sulaymaniyah International Airport. Turkish Airlines plans to boost the frequency to daily flights from March 27, 2026, under its Summer 2026 schedule. Flights will run as TK808 (IST–ISU) departing 22:30 and arriving 01:10, and TK809 (ISU–IST) departing 02:40 and arriving 05:40. Passengers can travel from USD 325, with fares subject to variation across sales offices and agencies. The airline’s global network spans 355 destinations in 131 countries.
Turkish Airlines Chairman Prof. Ahmet Bolat said, “We are glad to relaunch our Sulaymaniyah flights… we will not only further strengthen our presence in the region but also continue to contribute to the trade and cultural ties between Türkiye and Iraq.” Travel industry sources in Kolkata say the route enhances international mobility for Eastern India’s travellers opting for Istanbul as a transit hub to West Asia and Europe. With rising business and labour-linked travel from Kolkata to Gulf regions, the renewed Sulaymaniyah link is expected to benefit passengers seeking smoother connectivity to Iraq and beyond.