The Role of Air Transport in Iraq’s Foreign Trade for the Period (2018-2020)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of air transport in supporting Iraq’s foreign trade during the period 2018–2020, amid the economic transformations and exceptional global conditions that affected the country, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic. Air transport has become increasingly significant as an efficient means for moving high-value or time-sensitive goods; however, its contribution in Iraq remains limited compared with other transportation modes. This necessitates a comprehensive academic examination to evaluate its actual performance, challenges, and future potential. The study relies on analyzing official data related to air cargo movement at Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf international airports, in addition to reviewing relevant scientific literature on air transport and foreign trade development. The findings reveal that air transport in Iraq is characterized by low cargo volumes compared with maritime and land transport, yet the financial value of these goods is relatively high, reflecting the nature of commodities typically transported by air. The analysis also shows significant disparities among the three airports: Baghdad International Airport is the most stable and diversified in its commercial activity, Basra Airport’s performance is linked to the industrial and energy sectors, while Najaf Airport exhibits sharp seasonal fluctuations associated with religious tourism. The data indicate that the year 2019 witnessed noticeable growth in air cargo—particularly at Basra and Najaf—before activity sharply declined in 2020 due to the pandemic, which led to a significant drop in both cargo weight and value. The study concludes that limited logistical infrastructure, a shortage of dedicated cargo flights, and complex customs procedures have restricted the expansion of air transport’s role in supporting Iraq’s foreign trade. Despite these challenges, the results highlight substantial untapped potential that could position air transport as an important contributor to the country’s import and export activity, provided that infrastructure is enhanced, cargo facilities are modernized, and international air connectivity is expanded. The study offers an analytical perspective that can assist policymakers in improving the effectiveness of air transport within Iraq’s foreign trade system.