Resumption of Commercial Flights Between Turkey and Syria: A New Era Begins

On January 23, 2025, commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed after 13 years, with Turkish Airlines flight TK0846 from Istanbul to Damascus. Syrian passengers expressed joy and hope for their returning home. The resumption follows recent political shifts in Syria, enabling diplomatic relations with Turkey and investments to aid recovery.

On January 23, 2025, commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed for the first time in thirteen years, marked by a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Damascus. Syrian families, adorned in their national flags, celebrated in the airport by singing pro-opposition songs while preparing to board flight TK0846. Inside the aircraft, passengers continued the festivities, chanting the uprising anthem and expressing their emotions, which included tears of joy for returning home.

Passenger Fuad Abdulhalid, who had resided in Turkey for twelve years, joyfully stated, “I missed Syria and am happy to fly back.” Another traveler, Nail Beyazid, shared his hopeful sentiments as he anticipated visiting his homeland for the first time since his departure. He remarked on the improvements in Syria, affirming that they were pleased that the country had been liberated.

The renewed commercial flights follow the recent ousting of Syrian President Bashar Assad by a rebel offensive, which has led both Arab and Western nations to re-establish diplomatic relations with Syria’s new authorities, dominated by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Earlier this month, the first international commercial flight since the regime’s fall occurred when a Royal Jordanian Airlines plane landed in Damascus.

Turkey has indicated its support for the new Syrian government and intends to invest in the nation’s economy, particularly its electricity and energy sectors. Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Eksi confirmed that flights would operate three times weekly between Istanbul and Damascus, a development that followed a meeting between Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The resumption of commercial flights signifies a monumental shift in relations between Turkey and Syria, particularly following significant political changes in Syria. The end of President Bashar Assad’s regime presents an opportunity for both nations to reconnect economically and diplomatically. The presence of Turkish Airlines re-entering the market reflects Turkey’s commitment to supporting Syria as it embarks on recovery and reconstruction efforts post-conflict.

In conclusion, the revival of commercial flights indicates a fresh phase in Syrian-Turkish relations, fostering hopes for lasting peace and economic development in the region. Celebratory sentiments from passengers returning to Syria highlight a collective aspiration for stability after years of conflict. This revitalized connectivity may facilitate not only tourism but also investment opportunities in Syria’s rebuilding efforts.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com