Commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed on January 23, 2025, after 13 years, with a Turkish Airlines flight landing in Damascus. Passengers celebrated emotionally, highlighting the desire of many to return home following the recent changes in Syria’s political landscape. Turkey aims to invest in Syria’s economic recovery following the fall of Assad’s regime.
On January 23, 2025, commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed after a 13-year hiatus, initiated by Turkish Airlines with its flight TK0846 from Istanbul to Damascus. The aircraft witnessed joyous Syrian families singing patriotic songs and expressing their excitement for returning to their homeland. Passengers celebrated onboard, with one individual emotionally recalling his longing for Syria while another expressed optimism for rebuilding their lives after fleeing the country.
The long-awaited resumption of commercial flights is symbolic of changing diplomatic relations between Turkey and Syria following significant geopolitical shifts. The recent ousting of President Bashar Assad’s regime has prompted numerous Arab and Western nations to re-establish ties, aiming to engage with the newly emerged authorities led by the Islamist faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Moreover, Turkey has demonstrated its commitment to fostering economic recovery in Syria, particularly concerning its energy sector.
The resumption of commercial flights marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic thaw between Turkey and Syria following years of conflict. The celebrations among returning Syrian citizens underscore the emotional connections they maintain with their homeland. As Turkey seeks to invest in Syria’s recovery, the reopening of air travel reflects broader changes in the region’s political dynamics under new leadership.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
