Turkish Airlines resumes flights to Damascus after Syrian regime change

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Turkish Airlines resumes flights to Damascus after Syrian regime change

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Turkish Airlines Boeing 777-300 | Turkish Airlines

By Sky Industry News

Jan 31, 2025

Geopolitical changes often influence airline routes, as seen with Turkish Airlines resuming flights to Damascus after a regime change in Syria. The airline's return aims to aid over 4 million Syrian refugees who fled to Turkey during the civil war that began in 2011. The new service offers nonstop flights several times a week between the two countries.

Turkey played a significant role in the recent political shift in Syria, backing forces that ousted Bashar Assad in December 2024. Following this, Turkey quickly reinstated its embassy in Damascus and advocated for lifting sanctions to boost Syria's economy.

Turkish Airlines had previously suspended its Damascus route in 2011 due to the civil war. Many Syrians found refuge in Turkey, making the inaugural flight back an emotional journey for passengers eager to return home. According to the Daily Sabah, some travelers expressed excitement and pride as they prepared for their trip.

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One passenger, Ahmet Kiraz, shared his joy at returning after 12 years: "We thought we would never go back. But when the opportunity came, we were so happy. I'm returning to my country on the first flight; it feels like a dream."

Another passenger looked forward to seeing her homeland for the first time since leaving as a child: "I've never seen my country. I'm so excited to see it for the first time. We will be going from Damascus to Aleppo. I'll see my grandmother there."

The inaugural flight, Turkish Airlines Flight #846, was operated by a Boeing 777 aircraft with nearly 350 passengers onboard. Round-trip fares started at $300.

Turkish Airlines plans thrice-weekly flights between Istanbul and Damascus on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The outbound flight departs Istanbul at 9:00 local time and arrives in Damascus at 11:00. After a brief turnaround, it returns to Istanbul by 15:10.

The airline uses both Boeing 777-300 and Airbus A330-200 aircraft on this route. With its hub in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines connects Syria with its extensive global network, reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.