Syria says it is preparing to sign deal for eight Airbus aircraft

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa said Syria is preparing to sign an agreement with European aerospace manufacturer Airbus to purchase eight aircraft as part of efforts to modernise the country's national carrier.

In an interview with French television channel BFMTV, excerpts of which were released by the Syrian presidency, al-Sharaa said the agreement would be signed soon.

"Syria is about to sign a contract to order eight Airbus aircraft, and I believe they will be delivered soon," he said.

The Syrian president did not disclose the financial terms of the deal or provide details on the aircraft models included in the planned purchase.

The announcement comes as Syrian Arab Airlines is undertaking a major fleet modernisation programme backed by Qatari investment. The state-owned carrier aims to double the size of its fleet, which currently comprises 12 passenger and cargo aircraft.

By Sabina Mammadli