FAA Halts US Flights Over Iraq Because Of Ongoing “Hazardous” Conflict

(Kevin Dean)

For the second time in two months, the Federal Aviation Administration has banned U.S. airlines from flying over international areas of conflict; this time over Iraq.

The FAA issued a notice today restricting U.S. operators from flying in the airspace above Iraq because of the armed conflict in the area.

The restriction applies to all U.S. air carriers and commercial operators and those exercising privileges of an airman certificate issued by the FAA.

CNBC reports that the restriction is related to continued fighting between militants associated with ISIS and Iraqi security forces and their allies.

“Due to the potentially hazardous situation created by the armed conflict between militants associated with the Islamic-state in Iraq and the levant and Iraqi security forces and their allies, all flight operations in the Baghdad flight information region..are prohibited until further advised.”

The Pentagon confirmed to CNBC that the U.S. had conducted an airstrike against the Islamic insurgents in Iraq on Friday.

In late July, the FAA halted all U.S. flights to Israel for a 24-hour period because of missile concerns.

FAA restricts US operator flights over Iraq [CNBC]

Press Release – FAA Statement–New Notice to Airmen Issued for Iraq [Federal Aviation Administration]

by Ashlee Kieler via Consumerist