Overview of Damascus International Airport
Damascus International Airport is the largest airport in Syria and serves as a key transportation hub for the country. It is located about 20 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Damascus. The airport was built in the 1970s and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
The airport has a single terminal building with two levels, which handles both domestic and international flights. It has a capacity to handle around 5 million passengers annually. The airport operates flights to several destinations in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The airport has several amenities for passengers such as restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, banking services, and a mosque. It also offers premium lounge services for business class and first-class passengers. The airport has parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays.
The airport has faced several challenges in recent years due to the civil war in Syria. Several airlines suspended their operations to Damascus International Airport, and some countries issued travel warnings for their citizens traveling to Syria. However, the airport continues to operate, and efforts are being made to improve its facilities and attract more airlines back.
In conclusion, Damascus International Airport is an essential transportation hub in Syria that connects the country to several destinations worldwide. Despite the challenges it has faced, the airport continues to offer services to passengers, and there are efforts to improve its facilities further.
Terminals at Damascus International Airport
Damascus International Airport is the main airport in Syria and serves millions of passengers every year. The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which handle both domestic and international flights.
Terminal 1 is the older terminal, and it mainly operates domestic flights to different cities in Syria, including Latakia, Aleppo, and Deir ez-Zor. The terminal is located next to the airport’s administrative building and consists of three floors. The ground floor is where passengers check-in and drop-off their luggage.
The first floor has a duty-free shop and some restaurants where passengers can grab a bite before their flight. The second floor is used for departures, and it has several boarding gates and waiting lounges. Terminal 1 is relatively small compared to Terminal 2, but it is efficient and straightforward.
On the other hand, Terminal 2 is the newer and more modern terminal. It was built-in 2009 and can handle up to 5 million passengers annually. The terminal has four floors and provides various facilities and services to passengers.
The lower level of Terminal 2 houses the baggage claim area, while the ground floor has the check-in counters and immigration. The first floor of Terminal 2 is dedicated to arrivals, and it has several customs checkpoints and lounges for passengers to rest after their flight.
The second floor of Terminal 2 is used for departures and has several boarding gates and waiting lounges, just like Terminal 1. However, Terminal 2 also has several duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafeterias that offer a more extensive selection of food and drinks than Terminal 1.
In conclusion, the two terminals of Damascus International Airport offer modern facilities and services to ensure that passengers have a comfortable and smooth travel experience. Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are well-maintained and efficient, making them a vital gateway for air travel in Syria.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Damascus International Airport: Syrian Arab Airlines, Cham Wings Airlines, FlyDamas, Qatar Airways, Iraqi Airways, Mahan Air, EgyptAir, Royal Jordanian, and Oman Air.
Syrian Arab Airlines provides both domestic and international routes, with destinations such as Cairo, Dubai, Baghdad, and Moscow. Cham Wings Airlines also operates both domestic and international flights, serving cities such as Beirut, Istanbul, and Doha.
FlyDamas offers direct flights to nine cities in Syria, including Aleppo and Latakia. Qatar Airways connects Damascus to more than 160 destinations worldwide, while Iraqi Airways provides flights to Baghdad.
Mahan Air is an Iranian airline that offers flights to Tehran from Damascus, while EgyptAir operates flights to Cairo. Royal Jordanian connects Damascus to Amman, and Oman Air provides seasonal flights to Muscat.
Please note that these routes and schedules may be subject to change due to various factors, including COVID-19 restrictions and other events. Passengers are advised to check with their airline for the latest information before traveling.
Transportation Options at Damascus International Airport
Damascus International Airport offers various transportation options for travelers to get to and from the airport. One popular option is the shuttle service provided by many hotels in the city. These shuttles are usually free and available to guests of the hotel.
For those who prefer to have more flexibility in their transportation, car rentals are available at the airport. Several major car rental companies have desks located inside the airport, making it easy to rent a car upon arrival. This option allows travelers to explore Damascus and the surrounding areas on their own schedule.
Another convenient option for travelers is the shuttle bus service. The airport offers a shuttle bus that provides transportation to and from various locations around the city. The shuttle is reasonably priced and offers a comfortable, air-conditioned ride.
Travelers looking for a more cost-effective means of transportation can take advantage of the train lines that run through Damascus. The airport has a railway station located nearby, making it easy to hop on a train to various destinations around the country.
If you prefer to rely on private transportation, taxi cabs are also available outside the airport. It is recommended to agree on a fare with the driver before getting into the cab to avoid any misunderstandings or overcharging.
Overall, Damascus International Airport offers several transportation options to accommodate all types of travelers. From shuttle buses to car rentals, there is an option to fit every budget and travel style. It is always recommended to research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival and departure.
Parking at Damascus International Airport
Damascus International Airport offers several parking options for travelers. There are three main parking areas: short-term, long-term, and valet parking. The short-term parking lot is located right near the terminal building and is ideal for travelers who need to park for up to a few hours.
The long-term parking lot is located a bit further from the terminal but offers more affordable parking rates for travelers who plan to leave their vehicles for an extended period. Valet parking is also available for those who want to experience the ultimate convenience of having their vehicle parked for them.
The rates for parking at Damascus International Airport vary depending on the parking area and the length of stay. Short-term parking rates start at 150 Syrian pounds per hour, while long-term parking rates start at 900 Syrian pounds per day. Valet parking rates start at 2,000 Syrian pounds per day.
It’s advisable to book a parking space in advance as parking facilities can get full during peak travel seasons. Additionally, travelers should always double-check the parking rates and policies of the airport before parking to avoid any confusion or surprises.
Check-In Procedures at Damascus International Airport
At Damascus International Airport, passengers have several options for checking in. The airport offers both traditional check-in counters as well as self-service kiosks for those who prefer to check in on their own. Additionally, online check-in is available for certain airlines.
Passengers who choose traditional check-in can expect to find dedicated counters for their airline, where they will be assisted by an airline representative. They will need to present their passport and any necessary travel documents, as well as their luggage if they need to check it in.
Those who opt for self-service check-in can use one of the kiosks located throughout the terminal. These kiosks allow passengers to check in for their flight, select their seat, and print their boarding pass. They can also check in their luggage if necessary.
Online check-in is available for some airlines and allows passengers to check in from the comfort of their own home or office. This option requires access to the internet and a printer to print out the boarding pass.
Regardless of the method chosen, passengers should arrive at the airport with plenty of time before their flight to ensure a smooth and stress-free check-in process.
Security Measures and Tips at Damascus International Airport
The security procedures at the airport are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
To have a smooth security check, it is best to arrive early, pack your belongings securely, and avoid bringing prohibited items such as weapons or liquids over 100ml.
You should also remove any metal objects such as belts, jewelry, and coins before passing through the security checkpoint.
Additionally, be prepared to follow instructions from the security personnel and keep your travel documents handy.
It is important to remain vigilant during the security check and report any suspicious behavior or unattended items to the authorities.
By following these tips and cooperating with the security measures, you can help make the airport a safer and smoother experience for everyone.
Customs and Immigration Process at Damascus International Airport
Upon arrival at Damascus International Airport, passengers must proceed to the immigration counters where their passports are checked and stamped. Visitors may also be required to show their return tickets and hotel bookings as proof of their intended stay. Once cleared by immigration, passengers can then collect their baggage and proceed to customs.
Customs officers may randomly select passengers for a baggage inspection or scan. It is advisable to declare any items that are subject to customs duty such as alcohol, tobacco, and luxury goods. Failure to do so may result in fines or confiscation of items.
For departing passengers, the process is similar. After checking in for their flight, passengers must proceed to immigration counters where their passports are checked and stamped. Depending on the destination, departure taxes may also be payable. Passengers then go through security screening and proceed to their boarding gate.
Amenities
– Restaurants and cafes serving a variety of food and beverages are available throughout the airport.
– Duty-free shops offer a wide range of products, including perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, and souvenirs.
– Currency exchange services and ATMs are located in various areas of the airport.
– Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises to keep passengers connected.
– A prayer room is available for those who wish to pray or meditate.
– Information counters are present to provide assistance to passengers on any queries.
– There are VIP lounges for business class passengers seeking a personalised experience.
– Medical aid stations are also present to provide emergency medical support if required.
– Baby care facilities for mothers traveling with infants include changing tables and nursing rooms.
– Smoking areas are located outside the terminal building.
Accessibility Services at Damascus International Airport
Damascus International Airport provides facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues to ensure their seamless travel experience.
These include dedicated parking spots, ramps, lifts, and wheelchair assistance throughout the airport. Additionally, there are accessible toilets, visual and auditory alerts, and trained staff to provide personalized assistance.
Passengers requiring special assistance can request it in advance through their airline or directly from the airport’s Special Needs Desk. The airport also offers assistance for passengers with hearing or visual impairments.
Overall, Damascus International Airport is committed to providing a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Connecting Flights at Damascus International Airport
At Damascus International Airport, connecting flights can be a smooth and easy process if you know what to expect.
Upon arrival, follow the signs for “Transit” and proceed to the transit desk where you will be directed to your connecting gate.
Be sure to check the departure time of your connecting flight and allow ample time for any security or immigration procedures.
It is also recommended to have a written copy of your itinerary with you in case of any confusion.
If your connecting flight is delayed or you miss it altogether, visit the airline’s service desk for assistance in rebooking your travel plans.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Damascus International Airport, passengers must proceed to the baggage claim area located in the arrivals hall. Baggage is typically delivered within 30 minutes of the flight’s arrival time. If a passenger’s luggage does not appear on the conveyor belt, they should immediately report it to the baggage services desk.
When reporting lost or damaged baggage, passengers must provide their baggage claim check and complete a baggage irregularity report. This report will contain information such as the passenger’s name and contact details, a description of the missing or damaged baggage, and the flight and baggage tag numbers. The airport staff will then begin searching for the missing luggage and will keep the passenger updated on its status.
If the lost baggage is found, the airport will arrange to have it delivered to the passenger’s location free of charge. In case of damaged baggage, the airport staff will evaluate the extent of the damage and determine whether it can be repaired or replaced. Passengers may also file a claim for compensation if their luggage is not found or cannot be repaired.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Damascus International Airport has a well-equipped medical center with trained staff available 24/7.
Ambulance services are also readily available in case of any medical emergencies during flight or on the ground.
The airport also has fire-fighting and rescue equipment and personnel to respond to any fire incidents.
Overall, the airport ensures that the highest standards of safety and emergency preparedness are maintained at all times.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Damascus International Airport.
Some of the hotels located near the airport are:
1. Shahbandar Palace Hotel – 1.7 km
2. Beit Al Wali Hotel – 3.2 km
3. Four Seasons Hotel Damascus – 19.7 km
4. Sheraton Damascus Hotel – 20.8 km
5. Carlton Damascus Hotel – 21.1 km
Each of these hotels offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury experience, there is something for everyone in the vicinity of Damascus International Airport.
Useful Tips
Planning a trip to Damascus? Here are some insider tips to help you navigate and enjoy your time at Damascus International Airport.
Firstly, arrive at least two hours before your flight’s departure time to allow enough time for security checks and potential delays.
Secondly, familiarize yourself with the baggage restrictions and weight limits to avoid any excess baggage fees.
Thirdly, be prepared to remove your shoes and pass through a metal detector during the security screening process.
Lastly, there are several duty-free shops and restaurants available to pass the time while waiting for your flight. Happy travels!
Contact Information
– General Inquiries: +963 11 215 1446
– Lost and Found: +963 11 215 1517
– Airport Police: +963 11 215 1315
– Medical Services: +963 11 215 1551
– Customs: +963 11 215 1735
Note: For emergency services, dial 110 from any phone at the airport.
Other Airports near Damascus International Airport
There are several airports in the nearby areas of Damascus International Airport that travelers can consider:
1. Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (Beyrouth, Lebanon): located about 122 km from Damascus International Airport. Travelers can take a taxi or private transfer service to reach this airport.
2. Queen Alia International Airport (Amman, Jordan): located about 150 km from Damascus International Airport. Travelers can take a private transfer service or public transportation such as buses or taxis to reach this airport.
3. Adana Şakirpaşa Airport (Adana, Turkey): located about 488 km from Damascus International Airport. Travelers can take a private transfer service or public transportation such as buses or taxis to reach this airport.
It is important to note that due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, some of these routes may have travel advisories and restrictions. Travelers are encouraged to check with their government’s travel advisories and contact their airlines before making any bookings.