Austrian Airlines was the first European national carrier to resume flights to the Kurdish region of Iraq after a break of around 17 years.
The twice-weekly service, which departs on Mondays and Fridays, resumed in December. Flights operate between Vienna and Erbil, the fourth largest city in Iraq and considered to be a safe gateway.
Special report: Tourism to Iraq
Austrian management board member Dr Josef Burger said: “Erbil is truly a milestone in the development of the Austrian route network.
“Once again, it will allow us to underline the pioneering role of our Focus East programme of services to Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Far East.
“With our flights to Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Syria and the United Arab Emirates, we are already the number three carrier in Europe when measured by service into the Middle East.”
UK connections are available from Heathrow andreturn prices lead in at £834, including taxes.