Overview of Syrian Aviation Resurgence
On December 17, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved in Syrian aviation history as Damascus Airport (DAM) resumed flight operations. This event marked a new beginning for the nation’s aviation sector following the dramatic political changes in Syria. The resumption of flights was initiated by a test flight operated by Syrian Airlines, which flew from Damascus to Aleppo. This test flight carried 43 journalists, representing both domestic and international media, to document this historic moment.
Political Changes and Their Impact on Aviation
The rapid political shifts in Syria began with the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad on December 7, 2024. Following an uprising led by militia forces associated with the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Islamic movement, Assad fled the country, seeking asylum in Russia with his family and close associates. In the wake of these events, the Syrian interim government took swift actions to stabilize the country and restore normalcy.
Syrian Airlines, the flag carrier, undertook immediate measures to dissociate from the former regime by removing all images of Assad from its platforms. The airline also temporarily halted its operations to assess the security situation and awaited the reopening of Syrian airspace, which had been closed following Assad’s departure.
Resumption of Commercial Flights
Following the successful test flight on December 17, Syrian Airlines announced the full resumption of its commercial operations starting December 18, 2024. The schedule included flights to international destinations such as Cairo, Moscow, and Karachi. This resumption was a crucial step in reconnecting Syria with the global community and reviving its economic activities.
The airline industry in Syria, particularly Syrian Airlines, had faced significant challenges due to long-standing US sanctions that restricted its ability to procure new aircraft or maintain its existing fleet. The fleet, as reported, included eight Airbus A320s, two A340-300s, two Tupolev Tu-134Bs, and two Ilyushin Il-76 cargo planes. A majority of these aircraft were grounded due to maintenance issues stemming from the sanctions.
Revamping National Symbols
In a symbolic move to signify the new era, Syrian Airlines undertook the repainting of its aircraft. The national flag on the Airbus A320 (YK-AKG) was changed from the Assad-era version, which featured two green stars, to the ‘Independence Flag’ with three red stars. This act was not only a regulatory compliance but also a profound statement of national renewal.
Future Outlook and Challenges
The path to full recovery for Syrian aviation is fraught with challenges. Although initial steps such as the resumption of flights and revamping of national symbols are promising, the industry must address several critical issues. These include modernizing the fleet, enhancing international relations to lift sanctions, and rebuilding trust with global aviation partners. The interim government’s ability to maintain stability and encourage foreign investment will be crucial in determining the speed and success of this recovery.