Qatar Airways set to resume flights to Syria

DAMASCUS

Qatar Airways announced on Thursday it will resume flights to the Syrian capital Damascus from next week.

"Qatar Airways is pleased to announce the resumption of three weekly flights to Damascus, Syria, from 7 January 2025," the national flag carrier said in a statement.

"The decision to restart operations to Syria reflects the airline’s commitment to fostering regional connectivity and supporting passenger demand. Qatar Airways is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure that all necessary safety, security, and operational standards are met ahead of the relaunch," the statement added.

“We are pleased to resume flights to Damascus, a destination of great historical and cultural importance,” said CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.

The announcement follows a statement by Qatar's State Minister Mohamed Al-Khulaifi. During a Dec. 23 meeting with Ahmed Al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s new administration, Al-Khulaifi hinted at plans to establish direct air links between Doha and Syria in the near future.

Bashar al-Assad, Syria's leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia after anti-regime groups took control of Damascus on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party's regime, which had been in power since 1963.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio

DAMASCUS

Qatar Airways announced on Thursday it will resume flights to the Syrian capital Damascus from next week.

"Qatar Airways is pleased to announce the resumption of three weekly flights to Damascus, Syria, from 7 January 2025," the national flag carrier said in a statement.

“We are pleased to resume flights to Damascus, a destination of great historical and cultural importance,” said CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.

Bashar al-Assad, Syria's leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia after anti-regime groups took control of Damascus on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party's regime, which had been in power since 1963.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio