The long-planned opening ceremony honoured certain key individuals responsible for executing the contract as well as the construction of the centre and its facilities. A number of high-level representatives from Serco, the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority and the Iraqi government were present to commemorate this latest stage in the development of Iraq’s air sector. Mr. Bengen Raykani, the Deputy Iraqi Minister for Transport who instrumental in forming a bridge between the various parties involved in the contract was also present.

The ceremony highlighted not only the transfer of airspace control but also the formal opening of the Al-Burhan Centre. This is a purpose built facility within the Baghdad International Airport zone constructed to house the Serco ATC operators. The luxurious centre contains over 90 en-suite rooms with a full range of leisure facilities including cinema, gym and swimming pool. The centre will accommodate the Serco personnel over a 2 year period during which they will fully learn how to independently operate Iraq’s ATC systems.

Mr. Imad Burhan, the Managing Director of Al-Burhan Group introduced the occasion describing the background of Iraq’s association with Serco and the link created between the two countries. He gave a speech honouring the various persons without whom this day would not have been possible. During the speech Mr. Imad emphasised the bright economic future standing before Iraq as well as the friendship and collaboration between Iraq and the UK.

The event was covered by a wide variety of popular Iraqi news channels and will come as welcome news for all those longing for an advanced commercial aviation sector. Following the ceremony and awarding of certificates the guests joined together in the main room for lunch. The event was honoured have the presence of the British Ambassador to Iraq, Michael Aron whose diplomatic mission has been instrumental in uniting Iraqi and British expertise and technology.

For years Iraq’s skies had been under the temporary control and administration of the Multi-National Forces (MNF). It is therefore a source of immense pride that Iraqi officials and technicians have re-taken operation of the countries skies. Passenger and cargo figures have been rising consistently over the last few years with a tremendous rise since 2009. Major global airlines are beginning to return to Iraq to take advantage of the business and commercial opportunities. Iraq is destined to become a ‘hub destination’ for the wider Middle East region due to its favourable geographic position and tourist potential.

There is still much progress to be made but the ceremony offered a moment to reflect on all that has been achieved in terms of infrastructure implementation and technical personnel training. The next key stages will be involve the expansion of a number of Iraq’s airports including associated infrastructure as well as inviting a multitude of global airlines to commence operations in the country. The Iraqi Government plans to maintain this great pace of development and implement an efficient and lasting air sector for the people Iraq.