Syrian Air Reconnects Damascus and Istanbul After 12-Year Break
After more than a decade of suspension due to Syria’s civil war, Syrian Air has resumed commercial flights to Turkey. The first plane from Damascus International Airport landed at Istanbul Airport on Tuesday evening, marking the airline’s return to the route for the first time in 12 years, the airport’s press office confirmed Wednesday.
Syrian Air, the country’s national carrier, will now operate flights between Damascus and Istanbul five days a week.
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The airline was welcomed with a formal ceremony at Istanbul Airport. Firat Ocak, the airport’s commercial director, said the occasion represents more than just the return of a flight route. “Today’s flight is not only the beginning of a new route but also a symbol of re-established ties, growing partnerships and shared opportunities,” he said.
Istanbul Airport officials emphasized that Syrian Air is the sixth new airline to begin operations there this year, which they said will further strengthen regional air connectivity.
Flights between the two countries had been halted since 2012, when the Syrian civil war broke out and led to the severing of many diplomatic and economic ties between Syria and Turkey. The resumption of air service signals a cautious step toward restoring at least some level of bilateral contact between the neighboring nations.
The Turkish government has recently supported broader efforts to normalize relations with Syria, although deep political rifts remain between Ankara and Damascus.
