Talks in Damascus
The head of Syria's General Authority for Civil Aviation and Air Transport, Omar al-Husari, met executives from aircraft lessor AerCap Holdings in Damascus on 17 September 2026 to discuss developing the national fleet. The visiting delegation was led by the company's vice president for technical affairs across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Munir al-Dijidi, alongside the vice president of its leasing division, Gad Wayomba.
The authority said the meeting addressed the priorities and the current challenges tied to expanding and modernizing the fleet.
Two Jets Already Flying
The talks built on the arrival of the first two Airbus A320 aircraft for Syrian Airlines in late August 2026, the opening deliveries in a program that envisions eight aircraft in total. The additions mark the first concrete step in a fleet-modernization plan as the carrier works to widen its network.
Leasing and Support
Both sides examined aircraft and engine leasing solutions, technical support and consulting services, and capacity building for aviation staff. Leasing allows an airline to add capacity without purchasing aircraft outright, and it has become a common route for carriers rebuilding their operations.
The discussions also touched on regulatory oversight and the standards governing the sector.
Reconnecting the Skies
Engagement with one of the world's largest aircraft leasing firms points to a broader push to revive commercial aviation after a prolonged downturn. Officials framed the conversation around the sector's recovery and the development of local technical expertise, key conditions for restoring regular international service.
Building Local Expertise
Capacity building and the development of aviation personnel also featured in the talks, reflecting a need to rebuild technical and operational know-how alongside the physical fleet. The company, which specializes in aircraft leasing and financing, was presented as a potential partner for consulting and technical support as the authority updates its oversight of a growing fleet.
Both sides described the exchange as a step toward closer cooperation, without announcing any binding agreement.