Damascus Airport Modernization: A $4 Billion Initiative
**The modernization of Damascus Airport has officially commenced with a remarkable $4 billion initiative, aimed at enhancing the airport’s infrastructure and capacity. This ambitious project is a joint effort between Turkish companies—Kalyon, Cengiz Group, and TAV Construction—and international investors from Qatar and the United States. Together, these collaborators plan to construct a new terminal that will increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity from its current 5 million to an impressive 31 million.**
The reopening of international flights at Damascus Airport in January marks a significant milestone for the country, which is still experiencing instability following years of civil war. Qatar Airways was the first airline to resume flights to the capital on January 7, 2025, soon followed by Turkish Airlines and AJet, leading to a total of 11 airlines now serving the airport. Despite these developments, frequent interruptions continue to challenge flight operations due to infrastructural limitations and ongoing regional conflicts.
Current estimates suggest about 3,500 passengers are utilizing the airport daily. With domestic traffic accounted for, Damascus is expected to serve approximately 5 million passengers by the year’s end. However, the pressing need for improvement in air traffic services, radar systems, and terminal standards remains crucial to meet the burgeoning demand.
Turkey has taken the lead in offering technical support to improve the airport’s operations. After its reopening, the airport has benefited from Turkish assistance in air traffic management, security protocols, and the installation of advanced X-ray technology to enhance overall safety.
Investment Details and Strategic Partnerships
In a significant step forward, Kalyon, Cengiz, and TAV Construction formalized a partnership agreement in Damascus, committing to the extensive $4 billion investment. This collaborative effort will not only develop the airport but aims to establish a modern facility that will cater to international standards and passenger expectations over the next eight years.
As part of the development, improvements will also be made to the terminal facilities, apron capacity, and operational systems, transforming the airport into a critical hub for international travel in the region. Additionally, Kalyon and Cengiz are part of the consortium managing the Istanbul Airport, known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure.
The strategic partnership gained further depth after major share transfers were executed, resulting in a new agreement with the French Group ADP regarding TAV Construction’s shares. Sani Şener is at the helm of TAV Construction, leading major projects, including the Damascus Airport initiative. His recent transition from CEO of TAV Airports Holding to focus more on construction projects is indicative of TAV’s commitment to expanding its horizons.
Complementary Reconstruction Efforts in Damascus
In addition to the airport initiative, a broader reconstruction strategy for Damascus includes 12 significant projects totaling $14 billion. Among these, a forthcoming $2 billion public transportation initiative, backed by the United Arab Emirates, is set to enhance connectivity within the city.
Last year, Kalyon Holding and its partners also secured a groundbreaking energy agreement for Syria, involving an investment of $7 billion for new power plants aimed at fulfilling the country’s electricity needs. This effort is projected to generate an annual output of around 35 billion kWh, marking a vital step toward boosting Syria’s energy infrastructure.
As these developments unfold, the reconstruction of Damascus is not only a beacon of recovery but also a testament to the enduring resilience of the Syrian people and their striving for normalcy and growth.
