Syrian Air takes first two A320s under Damascus airport modernization plan

DAMASCUS, Syria — Syrian Air has taken delivery of two Airbus A320 passenger aircraft as the first installments of an eight-plane program tied to the modernization of Damascus International Airport in partnership with Orbacon Holding. The aircraft, registered YK-AKI and YK-AKJ, were added to the Syrian national aircraft registry, each configured with 12 business-class and 144 economy-class seats for a total capacity of 156 passengers. Syrian Air officials said the aircraft were selected from the global secondhand market after review of their technical condition, maintenance records and operational history, and had previously operated in European airspace under European Union safety and airworthiness standards. Pre-delivery technical inspections and maintenance were completed with the participation of Syrian engineers and technicians alongside two international inspection firms. The YK-AKI aircraft has arrived at Damascus International Airport and is ready to join the national carrier's fleet, while the YK-AKJ has been sent to a specialized facility for repainting in line with Syrian Air's new corporate identity. Officials said technical, financial and legal processes are continuing for the delivery of the remaining six aircraft. Once the program is completed, the airline aims to increase flight frequencies on existing routes, open new destinations and strengthen Syria's regional and international air connectivity, according to the officials.