DAMASCUS — Saudi Arabian low-cost airline Flynas has signed a deal to establish a new joint airline in Syria.
The agreement, signed in Damascus, establishes Flynas Syria as a joint venture between Flynas and the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority, with ownership split 49 percent by Flynas and 51 percent by the Syrian General Authority for Civil Aviation and Air Transport.
The signing took place in the presence of the Syrian President and forms part of a broader package of strategic Saudi-Syrian investment agreements in conjunction with the Saudi Ministry of Investment.
This announcement coincided with the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the development and operation of Aleppo International Airport, suggesting that efforts to restore critical aviation infrastructure will be carried out in parallel with airline operations.
Abdulaziz Al Duailei, Director-General of the Saudi General Authority for Civil Aviation, said the two agreements reflect a “strategic direction towards building an integrated aviation ecosystem that strengthens regional connectivity and supports the economic development of both countries.”
He added that Saudi Arabia is ready to cooperate closely with the Syrian authorities in several areas, including airport development and restoration of air navigation infrastructure.
Once operational, Flynas Syria is expected to connect Syria to destinations across the Middle East, Africa and Europe, facilitating the movement of passengers while supporting trade and tourism.
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Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Farih said the initiative demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to high-quality cross-border investments, stating that aviation is a key enabler of economic development and positions Flynas Syria as a model for constructive investment cooperation.
Hisham Al-Asali, Director General of the Syrian General Directorate of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, said the project supports Syria’s national vision to rebuild and modernize the civil aviation sector, with a focus on safety, operational sustainability and alignment with global best practices.
Bandar Al Mohanna, CEO of Flynas, said the investment reflects confidence in Syria’s long-term economic potential and strategic geographical location, noting that the country is well-positioned to serve as a regional air travel hub.
In December 2025, the civil aviation authorities of Saudi Arabia and Syria signed a memorandum of understanding in Riyadh for technical cooperation and consultations towards the renewal of the Air Transport Services Agreement, establishing a regulatory framework for expanding air services between the two countries.
Flynas Syria’s commercial operations are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to completion of licensing and operational procedures in line with international aviation safety and security standards.
