Tensions Rise Between Turkey and Syria Over Cancelled Flight

A Jet’s Inaugural Flight Halted

Syria has abruptly suspended the inaugural flight of Turkish airline AJet to Damascus, creating a fresh crisis in aviation relations between the two nations. The flight, which was scheduled for April 21, was cancelled after the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority revoked its permit along with future flights planned by the airline. AJet, a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, found itself unable to commence operations amidst escalating diplomatic tensions.

Demand for Reciprocity in Flights

Reports from Middle East Eye indicate that the crux of the issue lies in Syria’s demand for mutual flight operations between the countries. Currently, Turkish Airlines operates seven weekly flights to Damascus, while Syrian airlines are prohibited from flying to Turkey. In light of this, Syria has mandated that Turkish authorities must allow Syrian airlines access to Turkish airspace in exchange for permitting flights to Damascus.

Technical and Legal Complications

A Turkish transport official explained that legal and technical limitations are hindering Syrian airlines from operating flights to Turkey. Airlines such as Syrian Air and Cham Wings do not meet the technical standards required by Turkish and European aviation authorities, with some facing international sanctions. Although the European Union lifted transport sanctions on Syria in February, American sanctions remain effective, prohibiting certain aircraft from conducting international flights.

Diplomatic Efforts for Resolution

Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu has visited Damascus to discuss bilateral transportation issues and proposed a potential solution. The minister suggested that if Syria could lease aircraft that comply with international regulations and are not subject to American sanctions, Turkey would be willing to allow flights to resume promptly.

Syrian Airlines’ Regional Operations

Syrian officials assert that their airlines are already operating flights to various regional destinations, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. The Syrian government is eager to enhance revenue through its national airlines amid a severe financial crisis.

Wider Economic Implications and Ongoing Tensions

Despite optimism vostartd by Turkish officials about a possible swift resolution to the crisis, tensions have further exacerbated between the nations. Earlier this year, Syria’s decision to significantly raise import taxes on Turkish goods was perceived as unjust, particularly given Turkey’s efforts to host nearly four million Syrian refugees since the civil war began in 2011.

Both countries are now at a diplomatic crossroads, with the future of their aviation and trade relations hanging in the balance