Bmi 'ready and willing' to launch flights to Baghdad

Bmi has officially confirmed its interest in operating flights to Baghdad from Heathrow Airport.

The carrier revealed that it had held meetings with senior government officials in Iraq to express its interest in re-establishing air links between the country's capital and London.

Nigel Turner, chief executive officer of bmi, said the airline recognised the efforts that were being made by both the Iraqi and UK governments to develop business and commerce between the two countries.

"In order for those efforts to succeed, normal transport links have to be in place," he added.

"The ability to travel by air between Heathrow and Baghdad is vital in supporting the considerable energy that is going into bringing business ties and investment back to normality."

Mr Turner said that it makes "both geographical and economic sense" for the airline to begin offering flights to Iraq as it already serves several destinations in the Middle East.

From its base at Heathrow Airport, the airline offers flights to destinations including Tehran, Riyadh and Doha.

Posted by Kate, 01 May 2009 17:22

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