Qatar Airways has introduced its latest gateway in Iraq with the launch of scheduled flights to the central city of Najaf.

Following its move into Iraq six months ago with the start of flights to both the capital Baghdad and Erbil, the Doha-based airline has inaugurated new services to its third city in the country.

On the back of passenger demand to Iraq, Qatar Airways viewed expansion as being vital, fuelled by the country’s reconstruction drive.

The arrival of Qatar Airways’ flight QR 742 at Al Najaf International Airport was welcomed by a traditional water salute followed by a reception presided by local officials.

Fathi Al Shehab, Qatar Airways senior vice president GCC, Levant, Iran and Indian subcontinent, led an official delegation on the flight from the airline’s head office in the Qatari capital Doha. 

With three Iraqi routes now in its stable, Qatar Airways takes its frequency across Baghdad, Erbil and Najaf up 50 per cent to 12 services each week.

Najaf, to be operated four-times-a-week, becomes destination number 124 in the airline’s global network spanning cities across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, North America and South America.