Berlin-Damascus direct flights resume after nearly 14 years
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The first direct flight from Berlin to Damascus arrived at Damascus International Airport on Saturday, marking the resumption of direct air links between the Syrian and German capitals after nearly 14 years.
The flight was operated by German carrier Sundair, according to Syria’s Civil Aviation and Air Transport Authority.
Omar Hosari, director general of the authority, said the resumption of direct flights would facilitate travel for Syrians living in Germany and signal the return of European airlines to the Syrian market.
“We are working to rebuild Syria’s air connectivity network gradually and in a well-planned manner, and the return of direct flights between Berlin and Damascus is another step along this path,” Hosari said.
He said Syrian authorities were working with airlines to expand connections with Europe, with the aim of establishing a broader network linking Syrian airports with major European cities.
Hosari added that Syrian Airlines would announce several new European destinations in the coming days as operational and regulatory procedures are finalized.
Weekly direct flights between Cologne and Deir ez-Zor, operated by German carrier LEAV Aviation, are also scheduled to begin on Sept. 1, he said.
Syria and Germany signed a final air transport agreement in Damascus on July 16, paving the way for the resumption of direct flights between the two countries.
The return of the Berlin-Damascus route marks a further step in Syria’s efforts to restore international air connectivity following years of disruption.