Dubai, Feb 3 (IANS/WAM) Dubai-based Emirates has started its flight to Basra, the airline’s first service to Iraq.

The airline is among the largest international carriers to operate services in Iraq. Basra is its 110th international destination.

‘Iraq is experiencing a surge in growth and it is our goal to help the country prosper and flourish. The potential for this destination is significant and Emirates is committed to working alongside the Iraqi authorities to make Basra a success,’ said airline’s president Tim Clark.

Basra is the first new destination for Emirates in 2011. The airline will begin its service to Geneva June 1, followed by Copenhagen Aug 1.

Emirates will operate both passenger and cargo services to and from Basra with an estimated 130 tonnes of freight per week between Dubai and Basra.