Investigations revealed Iraqi Airways mismanagement has led to millions of dollars lost inefficiently last year. Iraqi Airways mismanagement continues to threaten operational safety and damage the airline’s international reputation severely. Sources at Baghdad International Airport said the administration ignored rules requiring certified companies for all aircraft repairs.
Despite regulations, Iraqi Airways mismanagement allowed contracts with two unaccredited firms, known only as Aet and Level Aero. Each jet engine repair cost between twelve and fourteen million dollars, with sixty million dollars paid upfront for only four planes. Observers described these costs as excessive, suspicious, and potentially indicative of corruption in Iraq Airways mismanagement. Twenty-five planes are now out of service due to parts swapping between aircraft and poor repair oversight.
The report warns Iraq currently cannot meet international aviation safety standards, prompting European restrictions on national carriers. Experts emphasized that Iraqi Airways mismanagement not only causes financial losses but also jeopardizes long-term credibility internationally. The airline’s operational deficiencies undermine Iraq’s aviation sector and increase dependency on foreign inspections for compliance.
Mismanagement and corruption are longstanding challenges in Iraq, affecting multiple public sectors, including oil and infrastructure. Political instability, decades of war, and weak oversight have allowed embezzlement and inflated contracts to persist unchecked. Iraqi Airways mismanagement fits this broader pattern, as repeated failures in procurement, maintenance, and fleet renewal demonstrate systemic issues.
Previous modernization attempts were stalled by partisan appointments, limited transparency, and lack of accountability, leaving Iraq’s fleet outdated and unsafe. Experts warn that without strict adherence to international standards, similar financial and operational failures will continue. The report serves as a stark reminder of the risks to Iraq’s strategic assets and public institutions if mismanagement persists.
Officials now face mounting pressure to implement structural reforms, enforce certified maintenance, and restore confidence in Iraqi Airways. Addressing these systemic problems will determine whether Iraq can rebuild its aviation sector’s reputation and operational safety effectively.
