Direct flights from Europe to Damascus after a 14-year hiatus.

In a historic step that opens up communication between Syria and Europe, the first flight of the European airline "Dan Air" landed yesterday at Damascus International Airport from the Romanian capital, Bucharest, to facilitate movement between the two countries and reconnect Syrians with their homeland after a long period of interruption. On board the flight was the Minister of Economy and Industry, Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al-Sha'ar, who was welcomed by the Romanian official delegation led by the Charge d'Affaires of the Romanian Embassy in Damascus, Radu Gheambostan, and Consul Cristian Iotu, in addition to the delegation of the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority led by Engineer Amro Daadoua. In a statement, Mohamed Al-Razz, the commercial representative of Dan Air in Syria, confirmed that the flight welcomed 138 passengers, including Syrians and foreigners, mentioning that the return flight will depart from Damascus to Bucharest with 125 passengers on board. Al-Razz added that resuming these flights opens a new gateway to Europe, connecting Damascus to many European cities, contributing to shortening distances and enhancing cultural, commercial, and touristic ties. He also highlighted the significant role played by the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority and the staff at Damascus International Airport in the success of this initiative. Dan Air had previously announced the resumption of its flights to Syria from several European cities such as Bucharest in Romania, Frankfurt and Berlin in Germany, and Stockholm in Sweden, after obtaining a license from the Romanian Ministry of Transport at the end of last March, and the approval of the Syrian government at the end of April. This achievement comes within the framework of bilateral agreements between Romania and Syria, representing a significant turning point in the relations between the two countries, and enhancing opportunities for tourism and trade cooperation between Syria and Europe.