Iraq's symbolic go back to the skies

The restoration of Iraqi Airways' London to Baghdad route after 20 years summarize the current mood of unity.

It is a testament to the power of symbolism that each of these events, embossed in the minds of millions around the world, at the same time caused no injuries and yet precipitated waves of bloodletting that killed hundreds.

This Saturday, for the first time in 20 years, Iraqi Airways will work a flight from London to Baghdad. Its planes will touch down at the very same airport that until recently forced pilots to carry out nerve-wracking corkscrew landings due to the danger from ground fire.

The historic restoration of this route has potential consequences that go far beyond the clear convenience for business travelers, archaeological tourists and pilgrims. With the opening up of the Gatwick link, Iraq rejoins the League of Nations whose flags have a fair place over EU skies.