Syrian Air resumes flights to Istanbul after 12-year hiatus

ISTANBUL, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Syrian Air, a national flag carrier, has resumed flights to Türkiye after 12 years of suspension, the Istanbul Airport press office said Wednesday.

Welcomed with a ceremony, the first flight from the Damascus International Airport touched down at the Istanbul Airport on Tuesday evening. The aviation service between Damascus and Istanbul will operate five days a week, the office told Xinhua.

Speaking at the ceremony, Firat Ocak, commercial director of the Istanbul Airport, said: "Today's flight is not only the beginning of a new route but also a symbol of re-established ties, growing partnerships and shared opportunities."

He said the addition of Syrian Air as the sixth new airline partner with the Istanbul Airport this year will boost regional connectivity.

The company has suspended operations between Damascus and Istanbul for approximately 12 years due to the civil war in Syria. ■