Commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed on January 23, 2025, marking a significant milestone after a 13-year hiatus. The first flight, operated by Turkish Airlines, took off from Istanbul to Damascus, bringing together families and friends separated by conflict and political turmoil.

Key Takeaways

  • First Flight: Turkish Airlines flight TK0846 marked the resumption of commercial air travel between the two nations.
  • Emotional Reunions: Passengers celebrated with songs and tears, reflecting the emotional weight of returning home.
  • Political Context: The resumption follows a recent shift in Syria’s political landscape, with new authorities emerging after the ousting of President Bashar Assad.

Background of the Flight Resumption

The resumption of flights comes after a prolonged period of conflict that severed ties between Turkey and Syria. The last commercial flight occurred in 2012, shortly before the Syrian civil war escalated. The recent political changes in Syria, particularly the fall of Assad’s regime, have prompted a reevaluation of diplomatic relations.

Passenger Experiences

Passengers on the inaugural flight expressed a mix of joy and nostalgia. Many had not returned to Syria since fleeing years ago.

  • Fuad Abdulhalid, a Syrian expatriate, shared, "I missed Syria and am happy to fly back."
  • Nail Beyazid, another passenger, expressed hope, stating, "We are very happy that (Syria) was liberated, and the situation is very good. We had a house, a factory. We also had cars, which are gone now. We are going back to take a look."

The atmosphere at the airport was charged with emotion, as families draped in the Syrian flag sang pro-opposition songs, celebrating their return to a homeland they had longed for.

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Political Implications

The resumption of flights is not just a logistical achievement but also a political statement. Following the recent rebel offensive that led to Assad’s ouster, several Arab and Western nations have begun to re-establish diplomatic relations with Syria’s new authorities, primarily led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).

Turkey, a key ally of these new authorities, has expressed intentions to invest in Syria’s economy, particularly in its struggling electricity and energy sectors. Turkish Airlines plans to operate three flights a week between Istanbul and Damascus, indicating a commitment to rebuilding connections between the two nations.

Future Prospects

The resumption of commercial flights is expected to pave the way for increased travel and trade between Turkey and Syria. As diplomatic relations continue to evolve, the hope is that this will lead to further normalization and cooperation in various sectors, including tourism and commerce.

In conclusion, the return of commercial flights between Turkey and Syria symbolizes a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries, offering a glimmer of hope for many who have been separated by conflict for over a decade.

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