Syrian Aviation Authority: Damage Halts Flights Between Qamishli and Damascus

The Director of the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority speaks during a press conference – North Press.
The Director of the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority speaks during a press conference – North Press.

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Civil Aviation Authority announced on Tuesday that Qamishli and Deir ez-Zor airports remain out of service due to extensive damage caused by the former regime before its withdrawal. The damage has made it impossible to resume flights between these locations and Damascus for the time being.

Earlier today, Damascus International Airport welcomed its first international civilian flight after a month-long closure, following the regime’s collapse on December 8, 2024.

Speaking at a press conference, Ashhad Salibi, Director of the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that the destruction inflicted on Qamishli and Deir ez-Zor airports was deliberate and systematic. “The damage severely hampers the resumption of flights. We are working to rehabilitate these airports, along with Latakia Airport, to restore domestic flight operations as soon as possible,” Salibi said.

Rehabilitation Plans

Salibi detailed plans to restore Syria’s aviation network, stating, “We are focused on rebuilding internal airports. Soon, flights will operate between Damascus and Baghdad, as well as Erbil. We are also preparing Aleppo International Airport for operations, which is expected to resume service within days.”

The civil aviation chief also mentioned that rebuilding efforts aim to reestablish critical infrastructure to connect key cities and regions, essential for reviving the country’s economy and mobility.

Iranian Flights Await Approval

Meanwhile, Iran announced earlier today that it requires clearance from Syrian aviation authorities to resume its flights to Syria. Salibi responded, clarifying, “There has been no decision to ban Iranian flights over Syria.”

The announcement comes amid heightened efforts to repair Syria’s battered aviation infrastructure, which has been significantly impacted by years of conflict and mismanagement.

The Civil Aviation Authority emphasized its commitment to resuming domestic and international flights, hoping to strengthen connections and foster recovery in the war-torn nation.