Turkish firms to lead $4 billion Damascus airport expansion project

Turkish construction firms Kalyon Insaat and Cengiz Insaat have secured a leading role in a major international consortium to redevelop Damascus International Airport through a comprehensive $4 billion modernization program. The Turkish companies will partner with Qatari firm UCC, US-based Assets Investments, and Syrian government entities to transform Syria's primary aviation hub. The ambitious four-phase project represents one of the most significant infrastructure investments in the region and demonstrates the global competitiveness of Türkiye's construction sector, which has successfully delivered landmark projects worldwide.

Phased expansion and economic impact

The modernization initiative will dramatically increase the airport's annual passenger capacity from current levels to over 31 million within a decade through carefully planned development phases. Initial completion of Terminals 1 and 2 by the end of 2026 will enable the facility to handle 6 million passengers annually, with Terminal 3 subsequently boosting capacity to 13 million. Beyond transforming aviation infrastructure, the project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, creating over 90,000 direct and indirect jobs while significantly enhancing regional trade, tourism, and logistics capabilities. The agreement also includes $250 million in aircraft financing to modernize fleets and expand international route operations.

Leveraging proven Turkish expertise

The consortium partners bring substantial experience from executing complex infrastructure projects globally. Kalyon Insaat previously delivered the acclaimed IGA Istanbul Airport in record time, while Cengiz Insaat has completed numerous large-scale projects in energy, transportation, and infrastructure sectors. Murathan Kalyoncu, Chairman of Kalyon Insaat, emphasized that the firm is expanding its international footprint after successful domestic projects, stating this initiative "will significantly contribute to the Syrian economy, regional development, and stability."

Strategic vision for regional connectivity

Company executives framed the project as crucial for rebuilding Syria's infrastructure and reconnecting the country to global networks. Asim Cengiz, Deputy Chairman of Cengiz Insaat, described the undertaking as "a key step in bringing Syria's aviation infrastructure back to international standards." He added that the consortium aims "to create a resilient, modern, and sustainable aviation infrastructure that can meet Syria's future needs," while supporting "the normalization of life in Syria and its long-term development goals." The project represents a significant commitment to Syria's economic recovery and demonstrates Turkish construction capabilities in complex international environments.