Emirates to launch services to Basra in February

Emirates will launch services to Basra, Iraq from February 2 next year.

The service will operate four times a week, subject to government approval. The flight will be operated by an Airbus A330, in a three-class configuration on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday and in a two-class configuration on Mondays.

“Basra is a significant market for Emirates. The city’s recent growth has paved the way for numerous multinational companies and industries to invest in infrastructure and we have seen strong potential from a number of our markets,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates Group. “Since the 2009 oil field bid, traffic from the US and Europe into Basra has increased significantly and we are ready to capitalise on this growth.”

“Our convenient flight times and good connections make Emirates an excellent choice for corporate travellers to Basra,” added Sheikh Ahmed.

Key inbound markets for Emirates will include, oil and petroleum companies from the United States and Europe, as well as Iraqi diaspora.

Outbound traffic from Basra will be skewed towards local Iraqis.

Local authorities in Basra have also started developing plans to attract inbound tourism with one of the city’s most iconic hotels, the Sheraton, recently reopening for business.

The carrier expects to uplift around 10-12 tonnes of cargo per flight, using the belly hold capacity on the wide-bodied passenger aircraft.

Emirates plans to import a range of commodities that will facilitate Basra’s redevelopment, ranging from perishable foodstuffs and garments to electronics and oil well equipment.

Basra will be Emirates’ 110th international destination and the sixth to launch in the 2010-2011 financial year.