The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has withdrawn its safety advisory for civil aircraft operating in Syria’s Damascus Flight Information Region (FIR), ending a warning in force since March 2013. The decision allows airlines, regulators and states to reassess overflight routes and services to and from Syrian airports under current safety and security standards, although existing national restrictions remain in place.
ICAO notified member states of the change on 23 October, following technical assessments and reviews of the Damascus FIR. The previous advisory will no longer serve as the basis for operational decisions, with risk assessments instead relying on the international framework and information available to states and operators.
Omar Hosari, head of Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, described the withdrawal as a potential catalyst for increased transit traffic and renewed airline interest in Syrian services. Any route changes or resumptions will still depend on individual airline risk assessments, regulatory approvals and applicable national rules.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s separate conflict-zone bulletin for Syria remained valid until 30 November 2026. Syria’s aviation authority continues coordinating with ICAO and other international bodies on technical requirements and measures intended to support expanded regional and international air links.