Iraq’s Ministry of Transport has concluded a four-year contract for joint operation of Iraqi Airways with the Emirati company, Ross Aviation. Under the contract Ross Aviation will supply air freight and navigational equipment to Iraqi Airways as well as bring in a minimum of 20 aircraft for joint operation. The navigational equipment will enable all-weather operations at Baghdad International Airport. Ross Aviation will also transfer ownership of two freighter aircraft to Iraqi Airways when the contract ends.

The contract also stipulates that Iraqi pilots fly the aircraft. The Iraqi Airways company will receive 12 per cent of the total revenue for the first and second year of the contract and 15 per cent for the third and fourth year. Another contract is expected to be signed soon for joint operation of passenger aircraft which include the provision of at least 20 aircraft for Iraqi Airways.