The General Authority for Civil Aviation has announced the resumption of operations at Aleppo International Airport starting Tuesday, March 18, 2025. This important development marks the airport's readiness to welcome both domestic and international flights after extensive preparations.
Aleppo International Airport, located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center, is considered Syria's second-largest airport. Spanning over three square kilometers, it features facilities such as a presidential lounge for receiving dignitaries and travelers alike. Before the onset of the Syrian revolution in 2011, the airport was well-connected with over 45 destinations worldwide. Its reopening is viewed as pivotal for the region's economic recovery.
The anticipated reopening follows the airport's brief resumption of flights back in February 2020 after being dormant for nearly eight years due to the civil war. At the time, domestic flights resumed with hopes of reinvigorated economic activity. The Ministry of Transport had initially announced plans to resume international flights at the airport, aiming to facilitate the return of displaced citizens and commerce to Aleppo.
Observers note the symbolic and practical importance of the airport for Aleppo, described as the country's economic heart. The regime views operational airports as key assets to restore connectivity and facilitate trade, which is particularly significant as industry and services aim for recovery post-conflict. "The airport is now ready to receive scheduled flights, both domestic and international," stated the General Authority for Civil Aviation.
Despite the optimistic outlook, experts express cautious optimism. The current operational conditions, including sanctions on the Syrian regime, restrict flights to many international destinations, particularly within the European Union. This limitation affects the ability of the airport to truly operate as it did before. "Resuming work at the airport amid the current situation of war may make the impact of air travel on the economic circle small and very limited," argued various economists.
Aleppo itself has suffered extensive damage, and economic recovery hinges not only on the airport's operations but also on the overall political and financial situation within the country. Sanctions have long hindered investments and trade opportunities, adding yet another layer of difficulty to the recovery efforts. The airport's ability to facilitate not just travel but also cargo flights is seen as necessary to reinvigorate the local economy.
Historically, Aleppo was situated on major trade routes, which contributed to its prominence as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its strategic importance as a transit point for trade and commerce remains relevant today, particularly for connecting Syria with the outside world. The airport's reopening offers hope for restoring Aleppo's past significance as a regional hub.
Local leaders and business figures stress the need for government commitment to rejuvenate the airport facilities and develop efficient operational procedures. Without significant investment and changes to existing economic policies, the airport's potential could be stunted. The reparations suffered by Aleppo's commercial sectors during the years of conflict necessitate proactive strategies to stimulate growth. Previous meetings with business leaders have highlighted fatigue over bureaucratic hurdles preventing investments and expansion efforts.
Under the previous regime, Aleppo airport did not receive the attention devoted to Damascus International Airport, which has remained operational and continues to connect the capital with various international routes. This lack of priority has drawn criticism from stakeholders within the city who argue for more equal treatment of economic centers. Business leaders hope for renewed focus on Aleppo to help stimulate recovery.
Looking forward, the administration governing Aleppo is set on commemorative events around the airport's reopening, intending to symbolize the city's resilience and upcoming transformation. Local officials express aspirations for Aleppo to evolve as it re-engages with global air traffic. Meeting the challenges presented by the current political climate and economic relations will be integral to ensuring the airport does not become just another empty promise.
While excitement surrounds the reopening, success remains tied to broader reforms needed throughout Syria. With transport connections becoming increasingly necessary for productive trade, it is hoped the airport can aid not just local recovery, but also serve as part of the broader rebirth of Syria's economy. The path forward remains uncertain, but there is palpable hope among Aleppo's residents and businesses as they eagerly await to see flights taking off and landing at their revitalized airport, heralding the start of new beginnings for the city.
