Turkish Airlines resumed flights between Istanbul and Aleppo on August 1, 2025, restoring a major international air route after a 13-year break caused by the Syrian Civil War. This move marks a big step for travelers, families, and businesses who rely on air connections between Turkey 🇹🇷 and Syria 🇸🇾.
The airline’s decision comes after it restarted flights to Damascus earlier in January 2025, making Aleppo the second Syrian city to rejoin the Turkish Airlines network this year. The reopening of this route signals growing stability in the region and renewed efforts to rebuild ties that were cut off during years of conflict.
Flight Schedule and Ticket Details
As of August 5, 2025, Turkish Airlines operates flights between Istanbul and Aleppo three times a week—on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The flight from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Aleppo International Airport (ALP) departs at 08:10 and arrives at 10:10. The return flight leaves Aleppo at 12:10 and lands in Istanbul at 14:15.
Travelers can expect even more options soon. Starting August 19, 2025, the airline will increase flights to five times per week. By September 1, 2025, Turkish Airlines will offer daily flights between Istanbul and Aleppo, making travel more flexible for everyone.
Ticket prices are competitive, with economy fares starting at about USD 299 (or TRY 12,112 for a round-trip ticket, depending on the exchange rate and booking date). For example, round-trip tickets between Aleppo and Istanbul are listed from USD 300–359, depending on the travel dates. Tickets can be purchased directly on the Turkish Airlines website, through customer service, or at authorized sales offices.
Official Statements and Stakeholder Views
Mahmut Yayla, Senior Vice President of Sales (Region II) for Turkish Airlines, explained the importance of this route:
“Aleppo is one of the most important cities in the region with its historical and cultural richness. With the reopening of our Aleppo route, we aim to strengthen economic and social ties between the two countries. As Turkish Airlines, we continue to increase our flight connections while offering our guests more travel options.”
Aviation experts and regional officials agree that this move is a major milestone. They see it as a sign of improving conditions in Syria and a boost for the region’s aviation sector. Both Turkish and Syrian officials have welcomed the resumption, pointing to benefits for trade, tourism, and humanitarian access.
Economic and Social Impact
The return of Turkish Airlines flights to Aleppo is expected to help rebuild economic, social, and cultural ties that were lost during the war. Businesses will find it easier to connect with partners, tourists will have new travel options, and families separated by conflict can reunite more easily. The flights also support humanitarian efforts by making it simpler for aid workers and organizations to reach northern Syria.
Aleppo’s inclusion in the Turkish Airlines network restores a vital link for northern Syria. It complements the existing service to Damascus and gives Syrians, as well as international travelers, more choices for reaching the country. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the reopening of this route is likely to encourage more people to visit, invest, and take part in rebuilding efforts.
Travel Procedures and Entry Requirements
Travelers booking flights between Istanbul and Aleppo should follow standard Turkish Airlines booking and check-in procedures. It’s important to check visa and entry requirements for Syria before traveling, as these rules can change quickly due to ongoing developments in the region.
For the latest information on entry requirements, travelers can visit the official Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs page, which provides up-to-date details on visas and travel advisories. This step is especially important because rules may differ depending on nationality, purpose of visit, and current security conditions.
Background: Why Flights Were Suspended
Turkish Airlines stopped flying to Aleppo in 2012 when the Syrian Civil War made travel unsafe. The conflict led to the closure of many international routes and left millions of Syrians cut off from the outside world. The resumption of flights in 2025 is part of a broader effort to normalize air links between Turkey 🇹🇷 and Syria 🇸🇾, reflecting improved security and diplomatic engagement.
What This Means for Travelers and Communities
For Syrians living abroad, especially those with family in Aleppo, the return of direct flights is a lifeline. It allows for easier family visits, business trips, and cultural exchanges. For Turkish citizens and international travelers, the new route opens up opportunities to explore Aleppo’s rich history and culture.
The flights also have practical benefits for humanitarian groups, making it easier to deliver aid and support recovery projects in northern Syria. The improved air link is expected to help Aleppo’s recovery and encourage international engagement with the city.
Looking Ahead: Possible Expansion
If demand continues to grow and security conditions remain stable, Turkish Airlines may further increase capacity or add more Syrian destinations in the future. The airline is closely monitoring the situation and will adjust its schedule as needed. Travelers are advised to keep an eye on official Turkish Airlines updates and government travel advisories for the latest news.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Book Early: With demand expected to be high, booking tickets in advance is recommended.
- Check Visa Requirements: Entry rules for Syria can change, so always check the latest information before traveling.
- Monitor Security Updates: While flights have resumed, travelers should consult their government’s travel advisories for safety information.
- Use Official Channels: For booking and inquiries, use the official Turkish Airlines website or authorized sales offices to avoid scams.
No Direct Flights from the US or Other Countries
Currently, there are no direct flights from the United States 🇺🇸 or other countries to Aleppo. All connections go through Istanbul, making Turkish Airlines the main carrier for travelers heading to northern Syria.
Summary of Key Dates
Flights to Damascus resumed
Flights resume between Istanbul and Aleppo (3 times per week)
Flight schedule announced
Service increases to 5 times per week
Daily flights begin
- August 1, 2025: Flights resume (3 times per week)
- August 19, 2025: Service increases to 5 times per week
- September 1, 2025: Daily flights begin
Conclusion and Next Steps
The return of Turkish Airlines flights between Istanbul and Aleppo is a hopeful sign for the region. It brings new opportunities for travel, business, and family reunification. As the situation in Syria continues to change, travelers should stay informed and make use of official resources for the safest and most up-to-date information.
For more details or to book a flight, visit the Turkish Airlines official website. Always check visa and entry requirements before traveling, and consult government travel advisories for the latest safety updates. The reopening of this route is expected to play a key role in Aleppo’s recovery and in reconnecting communities across borders.
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