The first direct flight from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Damascus by Syrian Airlines took off on Thursday, signaling the return of direct flights between the Netherlands and Syria after a long hiatus. This new route is part of Syria’s efforts to expand its national carrier’s destinations in Europe, following nearly 14 years of suspended services. Alongside this development, Romania’s Dan Air resumed flights from Bucharest to Aleppo in July and began regular flights to Damascus in June 2025. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a direct connection between Berlin and Damascus by early August. The resumption of these flights comes after a significant decline in air traffic to Syria, which began in 2012 due to security concerns and international restrictions on Syrian airspace.
Why It Matters
The re-establishment of direct flights to Syria marks a significant shift in the region’s aviation landscape, which has faced disruptions since the onset of the Syrian conflict in 2011. The decline in air traffic was largely influenced by the deteriorating security situation and international classifications labeling Syrian airspace as a risk area. The recent changes follow the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, which has altered the geopolitical dynamics in the region. With the number of airlines resuming operations in Syria reaching twelve, this indicates a gradual normalization of international air travel to the country, reflecting shifting perceptions of safety and stability.
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