It is the home base for Iraq's national airline, Iraqi Airways.

Indeed, many foreign competitors have a head start in Iraqi Airways' own backyard.

Iraqi Airways operated a single aircraft for the Government from 1982 until 1990.

"I put my hand on my heart the moment we leave home," an Iraqi Airways employee said.

Iraqi Airways' management announces the airline plans to resume international services soon.

Iraqi Airways has already operated routes from this airport, and was its second hub.

Iraqi Airways has plans to expand its international routes.

"So," he said, "these people can go on Iraqi Airways."

The airline was established in March 2005 by a group of former Iraqi Airways pilots.

Sales total 260, although five of these (ordered by Iraqi Airways) were never built.