(MENAFN) In a significant step towards rebuilding regional connections, AJet successfully launched its inaugural flight from Istanbul's Sabiha Gokcen International Airport to Syria's capital, Damascus, on Wednesday—marking the first such journey since the end of the Assad era.

The airline, in an official announcement, confirmed the commencement of daily round-trip services between Istanbul and Damascus, a pivotal hub in the Middle East. This makes AJet the first airline in 13 years to operate flights on this route from Sabiha Gokcen.

The two-hour flight culminated in a ceremonial welcome at Damascus International Airport.

At the event, AJet's CEO, Kerem Sarp, expressed pride in leading the charge by offering the first flights from Turkey to Damascus in over a decade, following Turkish Airlines.

Sarp emphasized: "Today, we made our first flight from Istanbul to Damascus. On Friday, July 4, we will make our first direct flight from (the Turkish capital) Ankara to Damascus."

This announcement confirms that AJet will also be the first carrier to operate direct flights from Ankara to Damascus in several years.

Sarp further elaborated: "From now on, AJet will operate daily flights from Istanbul and three flights per week from Ankara to Damascus International Airport."

The CEO also underscored the significance of this route, noting that, amid Syria's transition, the new service comes at a critical time for peace and stability in the region. He highlighted that the flights will not only rekindle human and trade exchanges but will also contribute to promoting solidarity during Syria's recovery efforts.

AJet, which currently serves 59 destinations across 34 countries, aims to expand its footprint in Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa. Sarp reaffirmed that the addition of Damascus to their network aligns with their ambitious growth strategy.

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