Iraq resumes control of Basra Airport

British troops took a step closer to withdrawing from Iraq today as the Middle East state reassumed control of one of its biggest airports.

Basra International Airport, which was being used as a UK military base during the conflict, will now operate commercial flights from the country’s second biggest city.

The transfer of the airport was one of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s remaining key tasks in southern Iraq.

It followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by British military commanders and Iraqi transport officials in Baghdad.

Military and civilian aircraft will continue to operate side-by-side at the airport but Iraqi civilians are now in control.

Major General Andy Salmon, General Officer Commanding of British troops in Iraq, said: “The Iraqis have been operating their own airport in Basra with minimal involvement from the UK for several months.

“From today they will gain further autonomy, taking over the running of the air traffic control tower.

“It is clear that Basra International Airport is now an international airport with good potential for future growth.

“I pay tribute to all those – Coalition and Iraqi – who have been involved in this achievement.”