Iraqi Airways Boeing 737 Lands on Closed Runway in Tehran

On May 1, 2024, a Boeing 737-800 operated by Iraqi Airways unexpectedly landed on a closed runway at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). The flight, originating from Al Najaf International Airport (NJF) in Iraq, was supposed to land on runway 11R but instead touched down on the adjacent, closed runway 11L. Fortunately, the aircraft landed safely without any injuries reported.

This incident involved the Iraqi Airways aircraft registered as YI-ASI, which has been in service for 10 years and typically carries 162 passengers across two classes. Miscommunication and the pilots' familiarity with a different runway, usually 29R, contributed to the landing error. The closed runway 11L/29R was undergoing construction at the time of the incident.

Landing on a closed runway is rare and often attributed to pilot error or emergency situations. This event highlights the crucial need for pilots to verify flight and runway details during their pre-flight checks, including reviewing NOTAMS (Notices to Airmen) that notify pilots of runway closures and other essential flight safety information.

About Iraqi Airways

Iraqi Airways, established in 1945, serves as the national carrier of Iraq and operates from its hub at Baghdad International Airport (BGW). It boasts a diverse fleet of 43 aircraft and flies to 21 destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and within Iraq. Notable international destinations include cities like Berlin, Moscow, Beijing, and Dubai, reflecting its significant regional and global connectivity.