Gradual Recovery of Commercial Aviation in Syria

After years of severe disruption, Syria’s commercial aviation sector is showing nascent signs of a gradual recovery. This resurgence is marked by the resumption of international commercial flights, renewed engagement with international aviation bodies, and a cautious re-entry of foreign airlines into Syrian airspace. This article will delve into the key developments driving this recovery, the challenges that remain, and the implications for the future of air travel in and out of Syria.

The Reopening of Airspace and Resumption of Flights

One of the most significant indicators of recovery is the reopening of Syrian airspace and the subsequent resumption of international commercial flights. In January 2025, Syria officially reopened its airspace, a pivotal step that followed a period of closure [2]. This move has paved the way for airlines to consider re-establishing routes to Syrian cities, particularly Damascus. Notably, Emirates announced its intention to reintroduce services to Damascus starting July 16, 2025, after a 13-year hiatus [4, 8]. This decision by a major international carrier signals a growing confidence in the stability and viability of the Syrian aviation market. Similarly, Dubai-based airlines are leading a GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) initiative to revive the Syrian economy, with some resuming services after a long absence [5]. Qatar Airways also announced the resumption of its flights to Damascus starting January 7, 2025, marking a significant return for commercial flights [10]. Furthermore, the Romanian airline Dan Air is set to become the first EU airline to offer direct flights to Syria in June 2025, connecting Damascus to Bucharest and other EU cities [9]. These developments collectively underscore a tangible shift towards normalization in Syria’s air transport links with the rest of the world.

International Collaboration and Modernization Efforts

A crucial aspect of Syria’s aviation recovery involves collaboration with international organizations to modernize its infrastructure and capabilities. The Syrian Civil Aviation Authority has signed an agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to upgrade the country’s air transport sector [6]. This partnership aims to assist Syria with the recovery of its aviation sector, focusing on modernizing infrastructure and capabilities to safely and securely rejoin the global air transport network [1]. Such international support is vital for ensuring that Syria’s aviation sector adheres to global standards and best practices, which is essential for long-term sustainable growth and integration into the international air transport system [3].

Economic Drivers and Challenges

The resumption of commercial flights is not merely about connectivity; it is also a strategic move to boost Syria’s economy. Aviation plays a critical role in facilitating trade, tourism, and investment. The return of international airlines is expected to revitalize key sectors within the Syrian economy [4]. Gulf capital, in particular, is seen as a driving force behind the post-Assad recovery, with commercial flights resuming and sanctions being eased [7]. However, significant challenges remain. The process of obtaining required licenses for operating in Syria can be time-consuming, and successful outcomes are not always guaranteed, especially given the lingering impact of U.S. sanctions [5]. While some sanctions are being eased, the overall economic and political landscape continues to present complexities for full-scale recovery. The focus on safety and efficiency, as highlighted by IATA, remains paramount, with global standards forming the foundation for safe and efficient operations [1, 2].

Implications for Ground Handling and Aviation Services

The gradual recovery of commercial aviation in Syria presents both opportunities and challenges for ground handling and other aviation support services. As more airlines resume operations, the demand for reliable and efficient ground handling, supervision, catering, and flight permit services will increase. Companies operating in this space will need to demonstrate adherence to international standards, possess deep local knowledge, and be capable of navigating complex regulatory environments. For instance, assistance with obtaining overflight and landing permits is crucial, as highlighted by the need for specialized knowledge and established relationships with regulatory authorities [4]. The emphasis on Safety Management Systems (SMS) and continuous competence of ground handling personnel, as per new regulations, will also be critical for service providers [6].

How JetMate Aviation Supports Syria’s Aviation Recovery

As Syria’s airspace reopens and international carriers re-enter, JetMate Aviation is uniquely positioned to streamline, support, and secure operations for commercial, charter, and private flights at key Syrian airports.

1. Professional Ground Handling Services at Reopened Airports

JetMate provides comprehensive ground handling across Damascus, Aleppo, and Latakia airports, helping airlines operate smoothly in a post-conflict environment. Services include:

• Ramp handling

• Baggage loading/unloading

• Aircraft marshaling and pushback

• Jet fuel coordination and de-icing (as needed)

• Turnaround services for narrow- and wide-body aircraft

This reduces delays, enhances safety, and gives foreign carriers confidence when restarting flights into Syria.

2. Flight Support & Permits for Complex Operations

JetMate’s operations team helps international operators navigate Syrian aviation regulations, including:

• Overflight and landing permit facilitation

• Diplomatic and humanitarian flight clearances

• Aviation compliance consulting (in line with ICAO and local authority rules)

This is critical in a country with evolving airspace restrictions and heightened regulatory scrutiny.

3. Passenger and VIP Handling

As airlines resume commercial flights, JetMate ensures a premium ground experience through:

• VIP terminal and crew handling

• Fast-track immigration/customs coordination

• Luxury lounge access and concierge services

• Crew transportation and hotel accommodations

This is especially valuable for business travelers, embassy officials, NGO teams, and private jet clients.

4. Cargo and Humanitarian Logistics

With infrastructure rebuilding and aid inflows increasing, JetMate also supports:

• Air cargo unloading/loading

• Customs coordination for humanitarian and commercial freight

• Cold chain logistics for medical cargo

JetMate becomes a key enabler of Syria’s reconstruction supply chain.

5. Local Knowledge with Global Standards

Operating in Syria demands on-the-ground expertise, cultural fluency, and safety compliance. JetMate:

• Employs local teams at each airport

• Trains staff to ISAGO and ICAO safety standards

• Maintains 24/7 operational dispatch across the region

By bridging global aviation standards with local execution, JetMate reduces risk for operators unfamiliar with Syria’s post-conflict aviation landscape.

References

[1] ICAO will assist Syria with the recovery of its aviation sector – LinkedIn. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/icao-assist-syria-recovery-its-aviationsector-air-services-icao-2mm0e [2] Reconnecting With the World: Syria Resumes International … – Levant24. (2025, January 8). Retrieved from https://levant24.com/ news/2025/01/reconnecting-with-the-world-syria-resumes-international-flights/ [3] Syria’s Aviation Sector Seeks Revival Through International Collaboration. (2025, March 2). Retrieved from https://www.alestiklal.net/en/article/syria-s-aviation-sector-seeksrevival-through-international-collaboration [4] Emirates to reintroduce Damascus services from 16 July. (2025, June 2). Retrieved from https://www.emirates.com/mediacentre/emirates-to-reintroduce-damascus-services-from-16-july/ [5] U.S. Sanctioned Countries Series: Business Aviation … – Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. (2012, October 18). Retrieved from https://www.universalweather.com/blog/u-s-sanctionedcountries-series-business-aviation-operations-to-and-from-syria/ [6] Syria Partners with ICAO To Revamp Civil Aviation Sector – +963. (2025, March 22). Retrieved from https:// 963media.com/en/22/03/2025/syria-partners-with-icao-to-revamp-civil-aviation-sector/ [7] Syria tilts West as Gulf capital drives post-Assad recovery. (2025, June 8). Retrieved from https://www.thenationalnews.com/business/2025/06/08/syria-tilts-towards-thewest-as-gulf-capital-drives-post-assad-recovery/ [8] Emirates to Relaunch Flights to Damascus, Connecting the … – Travel PR News. (2025, June 2). Retrieved from https:// travelprnews.com/emirates-to-relaunch-flights-to-damascus-connecting-the-syriandiaspora-and-supporting-syrias-recovery/travel-press-release/2025/06/02/ [9] First EU airline to offer direct flights to Syria in June. (2025, May 10). Retrieved from https:// www.newarab.com/news/first-eu-airline-offer-direct-flights-syria-june [10] Qatar Airways Becomes the First Airline to Resume Flights … – Welat TV. (2025, January 3). Retrieved from https://www.welattv.net/en/node/8505