Damascus, Feb. 11 (SANA) Syrian Airlines has achieved a significant operational and institutional recovery, restoring flights, modernizing services and expanding its network after years of near inactivity caused by war. The airline’s rehabilitation reflects broader recovery efforts in the country’s civil aviation and transport sectors.
The decade-long war left the national carrier with a largely grounded fleet, limited international connections and outdated infrastructure. Many airports were damaged, and flights were severely restricted due to security risks and sanctions. The current recovery marks the first substantial revival of Syria’s air transport system in more than a decade.
Since liberation from the deposed regime late 2024, Syrian Airlines has overhauled its fleet, increasing operational aircraft from just one to four. The airline also introduced digital booking and payment services for the first time in 15 years and reorganized its administrative structure, culminating in the establishment of the state-controlled Syrian Holding Company aimed at improving efficiency and commercial viability.
The carrier has strengthened regional connectivity by increasing flights to Gulf destinations, reopening routes to Turkey and Libya, and resuming operations at Aleppo International Airport with five direct destinations. Plans are underway for further expansion, including a gradual return to European destinations.
Syrian Airlines has also restored international partnerships, reconnecting with SITA, Amadeus and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), as well as renewing cooperation with Airbus and Lufthansa Technik. The airline said it also signed new agreements with international ground service providers.
Operational performance has improved markedly, with flights and passenger numbers rising by 350% and delays and cancellations falling from more than 70% to below 15%. The airline refunded more than 36 billion Syrian pounds in outstanding ticket payments, recruited new pilots and engineers, trained cabin crew and introduced stronger anti-corruption and transparency measures.
The airline’s revival restores air connectivity and represents a broader effort to rebuild economic infrastructure, strengthen institutional capacity and reestablish links with regional and international aviation networks.
M.S
