In the presence of Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa as well as in coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Investment and the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, low-cost Saudi carrier flynas has signed an agreement with the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation to establish a new commercial airline under the name flynas Syria.”
The future carrier will be called “flynas Syria” and operate commercial air routes in compliance with the highest aviation safety and security requirements. The new carrier will be a joint venture, with 51% ownership held by the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport and 49% by flynas.
All necessary licensing and operational procedures are currently being finalized in coordination with the relevant authorities. The carrier expects to start its activities by the fourth quarter of 2026.
The new airline will operate flights to several destinations across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. This expansion aims to bolster air traffic to and from Syria and meet the growing demand for air travel.
On this occasion, H.E. Eng. Khalid Al-Falih, Saudi Minister of Investment, stated: “This step is part of our commitment to supporting high-quality cross-border investments. The aviation sector is a key enabler of economic development, and the establishment of flynas Syria serves as a model for constructive investment cooperation. This partnership enhances economic integration and market connectivity, and supports development goals by advancing air transport infrastructure.”
Rebuilding Syria’s civil aviation sector
Omar Hisham Al Hosari, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport of the Syrian Arab Republic, stated: “The establishment of flynas Syria represents a strategic step within a comprehensive national vision aimed at rebuilding and developing Syria’s civil aviation sector. It reflects the state’s orientation toward smart cooperation models with trusted regional partners, ensuring the transfer of expertise, the development of national capabilities, and the enhancement of Syria’s air connectivity, thereby supporting economic recovery.”
Bander Almohanna, CEO of flynas, commented: “This milestone represents a qualitative leap in flynas’ ambitious growth strategy. It will positively impact the company’s financial performance and bolster investor confidence in our ability to create long-term value. We are proud to bring our pioneering low-cost aviation experience to the Syrian market, establishing a world-class LCC that contributes to Syria’s regional and international connectivity and advances the civil aviation sector in Syria. The unique geographical position of Syria and its tourism potential make it a vital hub for air travel.”
“We are working at an accelerated pace to complete the necessary licensing procedures. We look forward to launching our inaugural flights soon, in accordance with global best practices, and delivering a model centered on safety, efficiency, and service quality,” he added.
Flynas currently operates 23 flights per week from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam to Damascus, including two daily direct flights from Riyadh, one daily flight from Jeddah, and two weekly flights from Dammam. Flynas became the first Saudi carrier to resume scheduled flights to Damascus in June 2025.
