Civil Aviation Directorate adds third Basra-Beirut flight to accelerate return of stranded nationals

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced an updated schedule for flights between Beirut and Basra, under the direct instructions of Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny, as part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to repatriate Lebanese nationals stranded abroad amid regional unrest.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Directorate said a third flight has been added to the two previously scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The revised schedule now includes three Iraqi Airways flights from Basra International Airport to Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport at the following times:

• 9:00 am

• 10:30 am

• 5:00 pm

The flights are expected to carry a total of approximately 750 passengers, maximizing capacity to ensure the swift return of Lebanese and Iraqi nationals alike.

The Ministry urged all Lebanese citizens in Iraq wishing to return to secure their seats through Iraqi Airways, which has shown full cooperation in facilitating this operation. Daily flights will continue as needed until the security and airspace situation in Iraq stabilizes.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor all developments and coordinate with relevant authorities to guarantee the safety and timely return of all citizens.