This article is based on an official press release from flynas.

flynas and Syrian Civil Aviation Authority Form “flynas Syria” Joint Venture

Saudi Arabian low-cost carrier flynas has officially signed a joint venture agreement with the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) to establish a new national low-cost carrier, “flynas Syria.” The agreement, finalized on February 7, 2026, marks a significant step in the reintegration of Syria’s aviation sector into the regional economy.

According to the announcement, the new airline is scheduled to commence operations in the fourth quarter of 2026. The carrier will be based at Damascus International Airport (DAM) and aims to connect Syria with key destinations across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. This development follows the resumption of direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus by flynas in June 2025, positioning the Saudi carrier as a primary stakeholder in the reconstruction of Syria’s air transport infrastructure.

The partnership serves as a major component of a broader economic initiative led by Saudi Arabia to support stability and development in the region. By leveraging flynas’ operational expertise and the regulatory authority of the Syrian government, the venture seeks to modernize the country’s aviation standards and facilitate the return of trade and tourism.

Operational Structure and Timeline

The joint venture is structured to ensure regulatory compliance while benefiting from private sector efficiency. According to details released regarding the agreement, the ownership is divided between the state and the Saudi carrier:

• 51% Ownership: Held by the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport.
• 49% Ownership: Held by flynas.

Operations are targeted to begin in late 2026. While specific fleet details were not disclosed in the initial announcement, flynas currently operates an all-Airbus fleet consisting of the A320neo family. Industry observers suggest the new subsidiary may adopt a similar fleet composition to maximize maintenance and training synergies.

Executive Commentary

Senior officials from both nations have framed the deal as a “qualitative leap” for regional connectivity. Bander Almohanna, CEO of flynas, emphasized the strategic importance of the venture in a statement included in the announcement.

“This partnership represents a qualitative leap in our expansion strategy, aiming to contribute to Syria’s regional and international connectivity.”

, Bander Almohanna, CEO of flynas

Similarly, Omar Hisham Al-Hosari, President of the Syrian GACA, noted that the partnership reflects a shift toward “smart cooperation models with trusted regional partners” intended to rebuild the sector on modern foundations.

Geopolitical and Regulatory Context

The establishment of flynas Syria occurs against a backdrop of significant political and regulatory shifts. Following political changes in late 2024, the regulatory environment for Syrian aviation has begun to thaw. In February 2025, the European Union removed Syrian Arab Airlines and other entities from its sanctions list, a move designed to support economic recovery.

The path to reconnecting Syria with Europe has already been opened by other carriers. In June 2025, Romanian airline Dan Air became the first EU carrier to resume direct flights to Damascus. However, flynas Syria will still need to navigate technical safety audits, such as the EASA Third Country Operator authorization, to operate freely within EU airspace.

Saudi Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih described the agreement as a model for “constructive investment cooperation” serving the mutual interests of both Saudi Arabia and Syria. The deal was signed alongside other infrastructure contracts, including agreements to develop Aleppo International Airport and invest in the telecommunications sector.

AirPro News Analysis

The LCC Model in Post-Conflict Reconstruction

The choice of a low-cost carrier (LCC) model for Syria’s new national airline is a strategic divergence from the traditional legacy carrier approach often seen in the region. By partnering with flynas, the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority is likely attempting to bypass the historical inefficiencies associated with state-run legacy carriers.

An LCC model is particularly well-suited for post-conflict reconstruction for several reasons. First, it lowers the barrier to entry for the diaspora and business travelers, stimulating traffic volume more rapidly than a full-service model might. Second, the operational discipline required by the LCC model, quick turnarounds, single-type fleets, and point-to-point service, can offer higher reliability in an environment where infrastructure may still be recovering.

Furthermore, the 49% stake held by flynas provides the new entity with immediate access to established supply chains, safety management systems, and leasing markets that might otherwise be difficult for a standalone Syrian entity to access. This “franchise-like” approach allows for a rapid ramp-up of operations, targeting Q4 2026, which would be aggressive for a wholly grassroots startup.

Sources

Sources: flynas