AJet to Resume Flights from Türkiye to Syria in June 2025

Key Takeaways

• AJet resumes flights Istanbul–Damascus from June 16, 2025, four times weekly, increasing to daily in July.
• Syrian Airlines restarts Damascus–Istanbul flights on June 10, 2025, following lifted US and EU sanctions.
• Flights support family reunification, business travel, and signal improved Türkiye–Syria diplomatic and economic relations.

AJet Resumes Flights to Syria: What It Means for Travelers, Airlines, and Regional Relations

AJet, the low-cost arm of Turkish Airlines, will restart flights from Türkiye to Syria’s Damascus International Airport in mid-June 2025. This move comes after more than a decade of suspended air travel between the two countries due to the Syrian civil war and strained diplomatic ties. The first AJet flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Damascus is scheduled for June 16, 2025, with four flights per week at the start. Flights from Ankara to Damascus will begin on June 17, 2025, operating three times weekly. There are plans to increase the Istanbul–Damascus route to daily service in July.

This development is part of a broader normalization of relations between Türkiye 🇹🇷 and Syria 🇸🇾, following major political changes in Syria and the easing of some Western sanctions. Syrian Airlines will also resume flights to Istanbul on June 10, 2025, further restoring direct air links between the two countries.

Below, we break down what these changes mean for travelers, airlines, and the region, and provide practical guidance for those considering travel between Türkiye and Syria.

Why Are Flights Resuming Now?

Political Changes and Diplomatic Thaw

The resumption of flights by AJet and Turkish Airlines follows a period of major political change in Syria. In December 2024, the government of Bashar al-Assad was replaced, leading to a new administration in Damascus. This shift opened the door for renewed diplomatic engagement between Türkiye and Syria, which had been at odds since the start of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye 🇹🇷 announced the imminent return of Syrian Airlines flights to Istanbul, highlighting the normalization process. Both governments have since worked together to reopen air links and support broader economic cooperation.

Lifting of Sanctions

In May 2025, the United States 🇺🇸 and the European Union lifted some sanctions on Syria. This allowed Syrian government and private sector organizations to reconnect with international financial systems. The easing of sanctions made it possible for airlines to resume operations and for travelers to move more freely between the two countries.

Regional Trends

Other airlines in the region, such as Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways, have also resumed or expanded flights to Damascus. This reflects a wider trend of Syria’s reintegration into regional economic and political networks after years of isolation.

Key Details: Routes, Dates, and Frequencies

AJet and Turkish Airlines are restoring several key routes between Türkiye and Syria:

• Turkish Airlines resumed Istanbul–Damascus flights on January 23, 2025, after a 13-year break, using A330-200 aircraft and operating three times weekly.
• Turkish Airlines now serves 285 airports in 122 countries, making it the world’s most internationally connected airline.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

Easier Family Reunification and Business Travel

The return of direct flights makes it much easier for families separated by the war to visit each other. It also helps businesspeople, humanitarian workers, and students who need to travel between Türkiye and Syria. Before these flights resumed, travelers had to take long and often risky land routes or connect through third countries.

Booking and Travel Steps

If you are planning to travel between Türkiye and Syria, here’s what you need to know:

1. Booking Tickets:
   • You can book AJet and Turkish Airlines flights through their official websites or authorized travel agencies.
   • Syrian Airlines tickets are available on their official website.
2. Entry Requirements:
   • New Syrian entry rules apply. Nationals of Israel and Iran are banned or face restrictions. Lebanese citizens and journalists may face extra checks.
   • Standard passport and visa requirements remain in place. Always check for the latest travel advisories before booking.
3. Travel Documentation:
   • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
   • Obtain the correct visa if required. For official visa information, visit the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
4. Health and Security:
   • The security situation in Syria is still fragile. Travelers should monitor official government advisories and consider their personal safety.

Official Contacts for Travelers

• AJet (Turkish Airlines subsidiary): www.ajet.com.tr | +90 850 333 2538
• Turkish Airlines: www.turkishairlines.com | +90 212 444 0849
• Syrian Airlines: www.syriaair.com | +963 11 245 50 00

Impact on Airlines and the Aviation Industry

Reclaiming Market Share

For Turkish Airlines and AJet, reopening flights to Damascus means regaining access to a market that was closed for over a decade. According to Bilal Ekşi, CEO of Turkish Airlines, the move is important for strengthening ties between the two countries and improving regional air travel connections.

Syrian Airlines is also reconnecting with a major regional hub by flying to Istanbul. This helps the airline recover from years of limited operations and opens up new opportunities for passengers and cargo.

Regional Aviation Hub

Türkiye 🇹🇷 has long been a major aviation hub, connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. By restoring flights to Syria 🇸🇾, Turkish Airlines and AJet reinforce Türkiye’s position as a key player in regional air travel.

Aviation industry experts see this as a smart move. It allows Turkish Airlines and AJet to serve more passengers, increase revenue, and support the country’s broader economic goals.

Political and Economic Implications

Bilateral Relations

The resumption of flights is a clear sign that Türkiye and Syria are moving toward better relations. Both governments have described the reopening of air links as a milestone in their efforts to rebuild trust and work together on economic projects.

Ahmad Dukhan, Syria’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, called the move a “beacon of hope” for Syrians living abroad. The Turkish Transport Minister also noted that Türkiye has helped improve and maintain Syrian airports as part of reconstruction efforts.

Economic Recovery

Direct flights make it easier for businesses to operate across borders. They also support trade, tourism, and investment. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the reopening of air links could lead to new joint projects in energy and infrastructure, which President Erdoğan has hinted at in recent statements.

Regional Reintegration

The move is part of a larger trend of Syria rejoining regional economic and political groups. With Western sanctions easing and more airlines resuming flights, Syria is slowly reconnecting with its neighbors.

Multiple Perspectives on the Resumption of Flights

Turkish Government

Türkiye 🇹🇷 sees the resumption of flights as part of a broader policy to support Syria’s reconstruction and promote regional stability. The government has framed the move as a step toward peace and economic growth.

Syrian Government

For Syria 🇸🇾, reopening air links is a major achievement. It signals a return to normal life after years of conflict and isolation. The government hopes that increased travel and trade will help the country recover.

Western Governments

The United States 🇺🇸 and European Union have shown cautious support by easing some sanctions. However, they remain concerned about human rights and political stability in Syria. They are watching closely to see how the situation develops.

Humanitarian Organizations

Groups that help refugees and displaced people welcome the move. Easier travel can help families reunite and make it simpler for aid workers to reach those in need.

Regional Airlines

Other airlines in the Middle East are also expanding flights to Damascus. This shows that the whole region is moving toward greater cooperation and integration.

Historical Background: A Decade of Suspended Flights

Before the War

Before 2011, Turkish Airlines operated up to three daily flights to Damascus and also served Aleppo. Air travel between Türkiye and Syria was common, supporting tourism, business, and family visits.

The Syrian Civil War

When the Syrian civil war began in 2011, direct flights between the two countries stopped. Western sanctions and security concerns made it impossible for airlines to operate safely.

Recent Changes

In December 2024, a new government took power in Syria, leading to rapid diplomatic changes. Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Damascus in January 2025, followed by other regional carriers. Now, AJet is joining in, and Syrian Airlines is returning to Istanbul.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book and Prepare for Travel

1. Check Flight Schedules:
   • Visit the official websites of AJet, Turkish Airlines, or Syrian Airlines for the latest schedules and prices.
2. Book Your Ticket:
   • Use the airline’s website or an authorized travel agency. Make sure to keep your booking reference and confirmation email.
3. Review Entry Requirements:
   • Check if you need a visa for Syria or Türkiye. Review any special rules for your nationality, especially if you are from Israel, Iran, or Lebanon, or if you are a journalist.
4. Prepare Your Documents:
   • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
   • Print your visa and travel insurance documents if required.
5. Monitor Security Advisories:
   • Check the latest travel warnings from your government and the Türkiye’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation for updates on airport operations and safety.
6. Arrive Early at the Airport:
   • Security checks may take longer due to new regulations. Arrive at least three hours before your flight.
7. Follow Health Guidelines:
   • Bring any required health documents, such as vaccination records, if needed.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Türkiye–Syria Air Travel?

Increased Flight Frequencies

AJet plans to increase Istanbul–Damascus flights to daily service in July 2025. More flights may be added from Ankara and other Turkish cities as demand grows.

Expanded Routes

As political stability improves, airlines may open new routes and increase the number of flights. This could include connections to other Syrian cities if security allows.

Economic and Infrastructure Projects

The reopening of air links is expected to lead to more joint projects in energy, infrastructure, and trade. Both governments have signaled their interest in working together on these issues.

Regional Integration

The return of direct flights is likely to speed up Syria’s reintegration into regional economic and political groups. This could bring more opportunities for trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

Practical Takeaways for Travelers and Stakeholders

• Travelers: Direct flights between Türkiye and Syria are back, making travel easier for families, businesspeople, and aid workers. Check entry requirements and security advisories before booking.
• Airlines: Turkish Airlines, AJet, and Syrian Airlines are regaining access to important markets, supporting their growth and regional influence.
• Governments: The resumption of flights is a sign of improving relations and a step toward broader cooperation.
• Businesses: Easier travel supports trade and investment, opening new opportunities in both countries.
• Humanitarian Groups: The move helps aid workers reach those in need and supports the return of refugees and expatriates.

Conclusion

The return of AJet and Turkish Airlines flights to Damascus International Airport marks a turning point in Türkiye–Syria relations. After years of conflict and isolation, the reopening of air links is a hopeful sign for travelers, businesses, and families on both sides. With more flights, easier travel, and growing cooperation, the future looks brighter for the region.

For the latest official information on flights, entry requirements, and safety, visit the Türkiye’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Always check with your airline and government before making travel plans.

As analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests, these changes are not just about planes in the sky—they represent a new chapter of connection, recovery, and hope for millions of people in Türkiye 🇹🇷, Syria 🇸🇾, and beyond.

Learn Today

AJet → Low-cost subsidiary of Turkish Airlines operating regional flights, including restored routes to Syria.
Damascus International Airport → Main international airport in Syria, reopened for commercial flights in mid-2025 after conflict suspension.
Sanctions → Government-imposed restrictions limiting financial and trade activities with Syria, partially lifted in 2025.
Normalization → Process of restoring diplomatic and economic relations between Türkiye and Syria post-conflict.
Visa → Official authorization document required for entry into Syria or Türkiye for travelers.

This Article in a Nutshell

AJet restarts flights to Damascus in June 2025, ending over a decade of suspension due to war. This marks renewed Türkiye–Syria ties, easing travel and boosting regional cooperation, with increasing flights and expanded airline connectivity supporting economic recovery and family reunification.
— By VisaVerge.com