After more than a decade of suspended operations, Turkish Airlines has officially resumed flights to Aleppo, marking a significant milestone in its post-pandemic and post-conflict route expansion.
The move comes thirteen years after flights to Syria’s second-largest city were halted in 2012 due to security concerns amid the civil war. With this step, the airline is reconnecting Istanbul to a key historical and cultural hub in the Middle East, signaling renewed optimism for regional tourism and travel.
The return to Aleppo follows Turkish Airlines’ earlier relaunch of flights to Damascus in January 2025, reinforcing the carrier’s strategic interest in the Syrian market. The resumption not only broadens the airline’s already extensive network but also supports its mission to strengthen social, cultural, and economic links between Turkey and Syria. For global travelers, the announcement opens new opportunities to explore Aleppo’s rich heritage while benefiting from direct international connections.
Strategic Expansion in the Middle East
Turkish Airlines, recognized for flying to more countries than any other airline, has made a deliberate push to restore its Syrian operations in 2025. By reintroducing Aleppo as a destination, the carrier now serves two cities in Syria: Damascus and Aleppo. Industry observers see this as part of a broader effort to reestablish critical trade and travel links that were severed during the Syrian conflict.
According to Mahmut Yayla, Turkish Airlines SVP Sales (Region II), the decision to restart Aleppo flights is not just about connectivity but also about cultural and economic engagement. “Aleppo is one of the most important cities in the region with its historical and cultural richness. With the reopening of our Aleppo route, we aim to strengthen economic and social ties between the two countries,” Yayla said. This aligns with the airline’s long-standing role as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Flight Schedule and Travel Details
The airline began operating its Istanbul–Aleppo service on August 1, 2025, initially offering three round-trip flights per week. The frequency will increase to five weekly flights on August 19 and daily service by September 1. This phased approach allows the airline to scale operations as demand grows and ensure safe, consistent service for both leisure and business travelers.
| Flight No | Start | End | Days | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TK 844 | 01.08.2025 | 30.10.2025 | Wednesday, Friday, Sunday | IST 08:10 | ALP 10:10 |
| TK 845 | 01.08.2025 | 30.10.2025 | Wednesday, Friday, Sunday | ALP 12:10 | IST 14:15 |
All times are local. The flight schedule offers convenient morning departures from Istanbul and midday returns from Aleppo, allowing travelers flexibility for connecting flights through Istanbul’s major international hub. Turkish Airlines is also promoting attractive fares, with round-trip tickets on the Istanbul–Aleppo route starting at USD 299 for purchases made from July 25, 2025. Fares may vary depending on the sales channel, whether booked online, via call center, or through travel agencies.
Aleppo: A Gateway to History and Culture
The return of air connectivity to Aleppo is not only a milestone for Turkish Airlines but also a significant development for travelers interested in history and heritage. Aleppo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, has long been a crossroads of civilizations. Its ancient citadel, bustling souks, and iconic landmarks have drawn global visitors for centuries.
While the city suffered considerable damage during years of conflict, efforts to restore key historical sites are ongoing. Tourism experts suggest that increased international flights could accelerate recovery by encouraging cultural exchanges and investment in local hospitality infrastructure. For travelers, Aleppo represents a unique blend of Middle Eastern tradition and resilience, offering a travel experience distinct from any other destination in the region.
Safety, Tourism, and Regional Implications
The reintroduction of Aleppo flights also reflects broader trends in regional air travel. Airlines are increasingly seeking to reopen routes previously suspended due to security concerns, as stability improves and demand for cultural tourism rebounds. Turkish Airlines, with its extensive global reach, is well-positioned to capture interest from international passengers looking for both cultural exploration and business opportunities.
From a tourism perspective, Aleppo’s reopening to international flights could provide an economic boost to local markets, hotels, and guided tours. The resumption of service underscores the interconnection between safe air travel and the revitalization of post-conflict destinations. By linking Aleppo with Istanbul’s global hub, Turkish Airlines is creating a new pathway for both leisure travelers and expatriates eager to reconnect with family or heritage sites.
Looking Ahead
With daily flights scheduled to begin in September, Turkish Airlines is signaling confidence in the long-term viability of the Aleppo route. Aviation analysts note that route success will depend on sustained security, competitive pricing, and robust marketing to both domestic and international audiences. For now, the resumption of Aleppo flights represents a pivotal moment in the revival of Syria’s connectivity to the global travel network.
Travelers seeking more information about Turkish Airlines and its new Aleppo service can visit the airline’s official website at www.turkishairlines.com, call the customer service center at 444 0 849, or contact any authorized sales office. For global travel enthusiasts, this route adds another historic and culturally rich destination to the world map of accessible cities.
