Syria witnessed a major milestone on Tuesday as international flights resumed from its main airport in Damascus for the first time since the fall of President Bashar Al Assad’s regime. This marks a significant step in rebuilding the nation's connectivity with the world after over a decade of civil war.

A Syrian Airlines flight carrying 145 passengers departed Damascus at approximately 11:45 am local time, heading to Sharjah Airport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This is the first international commercial flight from the capital since December 8, according to the state-run Sana news agency.

A Gradual Revival of Air Travel

The resumption of international flights follows a test flight on December 18, which landed in Aleppo, marking the first domestic air journey since the fall of the Assad regime. In recent weeks, Syria has also welcomed international aid planes and foreign delegations, signaling a slow but steady reopening of its airspace.

Qatar Airways Rejoins the Skies Over Syria

In a notable development, Qatar Airways has announced the relaunch of its Damascus route after nearly 13 years. Beginning January 7, 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights to the Syrian capital. "This is a significant step in reconnecting the region," Qatar Airways stated, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring safety and operational standards in collaboration with relevant authorities.

Renewed Regional Ties

Qatar became the second country, after Turkey, to reopen its embassy in Damascus following the overthrow of Assad’s government. Doha, a former staunch critic of the Assad regime and a key supporter of the armed rebellion that began in 2011, had previously refrained from renewing ties with Syria, even as other Arab nations restored diplomatic relations last year.

A New Era for Syria

The resumption of flights marks a turning point for Syria, nearly a month after rebels led by Hayat Tahrir Al Sham ousted Assad’s regime. This pivotal event has ended a brutal civil war and brought hopes of rebuilding the nation's infrastructure and reestablishing international relationships.

As air travel resumes, Syrians and the global community look forward to the country’s gradual recovery and reintegration into regional and global networks.