Commercial air travel resumes between Istanbul and the Syrian city of Aleppo, marking an end to a 13-year suspension.
After more than a decade of no direct passenger flights between Istanbul and Aleppo, Turkish Airlines has announced the resumption of scheduled services between the two cities, effective August 1, 2025.
Initially, the airline will operate three round-trip flights per week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. However, as international ties normalize, the frequency of flights is expected to increase. Starting August 19, 2025, there will be five flights per week, and by September 1, daily flights are anticipated.
The ticket prices for the Istanbul–Aleppo route start at approximately $299 for one-way fares, according to information available as of July 25, 2025. It is important to note that prices may vary at other sales offices and agencies.
Turkish Airlines is not the only airline set to serve the route. Low-cost carrier AJet will operate its first flight on the Istanbul-Aleppo route on August 2, while AJet plans to operate flights on the Sabiha Gokcen-Aleppo route every day of the week, starting August 4.
The resumption of flights between Istanbul and Aleppo marks a significant step in the normalization of relations between Turkey and Syria, following the collapse of Assad's regime in December 2024. The inaugural flight, TK 846, took off since the 2012 suspension, and Turkish Airlines has since resumed flights to Syria on January 23, 2025.
With the addition of Aleppo flights, Turkish Airlines has increased its number of destinations in Syria to two. The airline has also announced plans to further increase flights on the Istanbul-Aleppo route to seven days a week beginning September 1.
However, it's worth noting that Turkish Airlines has implemented a ban on smart luggage with non-removable lithium batteries. Passengers are advised to check the baggage policy before their travel.
This development is expected to boost tourism and trade between the two cities, offering a much-needed connection for people seeking to travel between the two historic destinations.
- Turkish Airlines, in addition to its daily flights to Aleppo beginning September 1, will also consider expanding business opportunities by enhancing the frequency of flights.
- The expansion of flights between Istanbul and Aleppo could potentially lead to a lifestyle shift for many, as improved connectivity fuels increased tourism and cultural exchange.
- With AJet also operating flights on the Istanbul-Aleppo route and the Sabiha Gokcen-Aleppo route, competition in the Turkish-Syrian air travel sector is poised to grow, enabling more affordable travel options for passengers.
- The resumption of these flights and the planned travel between Istanbul and Aleppo may indirectly influence Turkey's finance sector as travelers invest in new experiences, fueling growth in the travel and tourism industry in Turkiye.
