Direct flights resume between Damascus and Berlin after 14-year hiatus

Direct flights between Damascus and Berlin have recommenced after a 14-year pause, with Sundair Airlines initiating the inaugural service from Berlin to Damascus International Airport on Saturday. This development was reported by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

The ceremonial return of direct air travel was welcomed by Mohammed Bara Shukri, the Syrian Embassy's chargé d'affaires in Berlin. This milestone comes after Omar Al-Hasri, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, had previously announced preparations for the return of direct flights to Damascus International Airport. Al-Hasri's announcement emphasized the significance of this resumption as part of broader efforts to reestablish regular air links between Damascus and Germany.

Al-Hasri explained via a post on his X account that the launch of this route is a strategic move to reestablish connections between Syrian airports and European destinations, thereby expanding Syria's international air transport network. He further stated that the resumption aims to facilitate travel, particularly for the Syrian community residing in Germany, while also promoting tourism, economic exchange, and communication between Damascus and Berlin.