Escalating Attacks Force Repeated Aleppo Airport Closures

A series of attacks on Aleppo International Airport has forced Syrian authorities to repeatedly suspend all flights, diverting air traffic to the capital and crippling a vital economic link for the war-torn country's largest city.

The northern airport has faced multiple closures in recent weeks due to shelling and airstrikes, with the latest incidents prompting 24-hour shutdowns [43512][43466][43467]. Each time, incoming and outgoing flights are redirected to Damascus International Airport, located roughly 350 kilometers to the south [43466]. The Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation states these measures are necessary to ensure passenger safety [43466].

While one closure was attributed to an alleged Israeli airstrike [43467], Syrian officials have repeatedly blamed the U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) for artillery and drone attacks targeting the airport and surrounding areas [43512][43466]. The SDF, which controls large parts of northeastern Syria, is designated a terrorist group by the Syrian government [43512]. These incidents highlight the ongoing instability in northern Syria, where sporadic violence continues despite periods of relative calm [43466].

The airport is a critical civilian and economic hub for the region [43467]. Its repeated closure disrupts travel and commerce for Aleppo, a major population center still recovering from years of conflict. Authorities have not provided detailed reports on damage from the recent attacks, though one military statement mentioned "some material damage" at the airfield [43467].

The tensions extend beyond the airport. Syrian state media has accused the SDF of recent attacks on army positions, residential neighborhoods, and even a school in Aleppo, resulting in reported civilian and military casualties [43230][43080][43297]. The Syrian army claims to have downed SDF drones and has retaliated with artillery fire in some instances [35602][42986]. These clashes occur despite a local ceasefire agreement, which both sides accuse the other of violating [35602][32570].