First International Commercial Flight to Damascus Airport

SOURCE www.npr.org
First international commercial flight lands at Damascus airport since fall of Bashar al-Assad, marking a symbolic return to normalcy for Syrians after years of conflict.

Key Points

  • Qatar Airways flight marks significant progress in Syria's post-conflict reconstruction
  • Passengers express hope and gratitude for the opportunity to return to Syria
  • Jordan conducts test flight to evaluate technical condition of Damascus airport for potential regular flights

Pros

  • Symbolizes a return to normalcy for Syrians after years of conflict
  • Opportunity for Syrian expatriates to reconnect with their homeland

Cons

  • Rehabilitation of airport needed due to neglect and damage from airstrikes
  • Reopening of diplomatic relations with Syria's new de facto authorities may be controversial