International passenger services recommence between Istanbul and the Syrian city of Aleppo, marking an end to a 13-year flight suspension.
After a hiatus of approximately 13 to 14 years, Turkish Airlines has resumed scheduled passenger flights between Istanbul and Aleppo, Syria. This significant reopening of air connectivity for Aleppo marks a milestone in international relations, following the collapse of Assad's regime in December 2024 and the subsequent acceleration of efforts to normalize international ties under the transitional administration led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Starting August 1, 2025, Turkish Airlines offers the Istanbul–Aleppo–Istanbul route with tickets available as of late July 2025, starting from about $299. However, the specific frequency (e.g., daily, weekly) and exact timings of flights were not detailed in the available sources.
Low-cost carrier AJet will also join the scene, operating its first flight on the Istanbul's Sabiha Gokcen Airport-Aleppo route on Aug. 2. Turkish Airlines has increased its number of destinations in Syria to two, with the addition of Aleppo flights following the Damascus service.
The inaugural flight between Istanbul and Aleppo, TK 846, carried 349 passengers and marked a deeply emotional moment for many Syrians returning home for the first time in over a decade. It's worth noting that the business class ticket for the Istanbul-Damascus flight has been available since the 2012 suspension.
However, Turkish Airlines has not yet announced any plans to increase flights on the Istanbul-Aleppo route beyond Aug. 15. Prices for tickets bought through the Turkish Airlines official website may vary at other sales offices and agencies.
It's also important to note that Turkish Airlines bans smart luggage with non-removable lithium batteries. Starting Sept. 1, Turkish Airlines will also operate flights on the Istanbul-Aleppo route seven days a week, while AJet plans to operate flights on the Sabiha Gokcen-Aleppo route every day of the week, starting Aug. 4.
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- In August 2025, on top of the existing Damascus service, Turkish Airlines will also provide flights between Istanbul and Aleppo, carrying passengers on the inaugural flight, TK 846, which marked a significant emotional moment for many Syrians.
- Turkey's aviation industry is set to expand with the entry of low-cost carrier AJet, scheduled to begin operating flights between Istanbul's Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Aleppo from August 2, 2025.
- After the collapse of Assad's regime in December 2024 and the subsequent acceleration of efforts to normalize international ties, finance opportunities in Turkey and Syria have emerged, including the resumption of scheduled passenger flights between major cities like Istanbul and Aleppo.
- As an increase in transcontinental activities involving countries such as Turkey and Syria could potentially impact the global transportation sector, it is essential for investors and industry stakeholders to monitor market developments in this region.
- While Turkish Airlines has not announced any plans to increase flights on the Istanbul-Aleppo route beyond August 15, 2025, Russia, a significant regional player, has shown keen interest in expanding its presence in the Syrian industry and this resumption of air connectivity could be a potential starting point for broader collaborations.
