Turkish Airlines has officially resumed flights to Damascus, Syria, after a 13-year break, marking a significant milestone in the recovery of Syria’s international air connectivity. The first flight from Istanbul to Damascus departed on Thursday.
Turkish Airlines begins Istanbul – Damascus flights today. pic.twitter.com/iVIf4UxHlt
— Ragıp Soylu (@ragipsoylu) January 23, 2025
This move mirrors the airline’s recent return to Benghazi after a decade of absence.
The new route will operate three times a week — on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The resumed service comes after a decade-long hiatus following the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War in 2012.
“We are thrilled to reconnect Istanbul with Damascus, a city rich in history and culture,” said Bilal Ekşi, general manager of the airline, in a news release. “We believe that our flights will positively contribute to Syria’s tourism and trade sectors. With the evolving market conditions, we are committed to diversifying the Middle East’s gateways to the world.”
International Air Travel Resumes to Syria
The resumption of international air travel to Syria marks a significant milestone in the country’s gradual recovery following years of isolation due to the ongoing conflict. After years of limited air traffic, the skies above Damascus are once again witnessing the arrival of international airlines.
Qatar Airways led the way, inaugurating its first commercial flight to the Syrian capital on January 7.
These developments build upon a foundation of gradual reconnection. Prior to the return of major international carriers, limited air traffic had already resumed with aid flights and diplomatic delegations landing in Syria. Domestic air travel had also been re-established, with a notable milestone being the resumption of flights between Damascus and Aleppo on December 18.
Furthermore, Syrian Airlines itself played a role in this renewed era of air travel. On January 23, the national carrier launched its first international commercial flight from Damascus since the onset of the conflict.
