UAE to resume flights to Syria, regulator says

The General Civil Aviation Authority has announced the resumption of flights between the UAE and Syria. The GCAA said on Monday that the countries are co-ordinating to restart flights between them “in a manner that enhances air traffic and supports passenger and cargo movement”. The decision came after Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara visited the UAE on Sunday for the first time since taking office. He met President Sheikh Mohamed, who said the UAE would “spare no effort in providing all possible support to Syria” and help the country to rebuild. Countries had suspended flights to and from Syria during the civil war, but some have resumed routes since the removal of Bashar Al Assad from the Syrian presidency in December. Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Damascus on January 23, while Qatar Airways restarted on January 7.<br/>