Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani has reiterated his government’s commitment to modernizing Baghdad International Airport (BIAP), leading a key meeting to push forward a public-private partnership (PPP) project that will revamp Iraq’s primary aviation gateway.
The meeting—attended by officials from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Prime Minister’s advisors, and the Head of the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority—focused on finalizing the bidding documents and preparing to launch the Request for Proposals (RFP) for qualified investors.
The Prime Minister stressed the need for the project to reflect Baghdad’s strategic importance and meet growing passenger demand, in line with global aviation standards. He also emphasized job protections for current airport staff and initiatives to upgrade their skills, while ensuring professional commercial management to boost government revenue.
Development plans include a new terminal capable of handling 8.5 million passengers annually—expected to increase to 15 million by 2040—as well as runway upgrades, VIP terminal integration, and investment in surrounding commercial zones.
The IFC, which has advised on airport projects in 11 airports across nine countries, is supporting the government on technical design, feasibility, and investor engagement. While security and core state responsibilities will remain under public authority, private investors will operate terminal services such as passenger operations, ground handling, and cargo management.
(Source: PMO)
