Dubai: flydubai, Dubai's first low-cost airline, is continuing the rapid expansion of its network with the announcement of flights to Aleppo, Syria's second largest city, from July 13.

The launch of flydubai's fifth destination comes just nine days after it completed the first round of inaugural flights to Beirut, Amman, Damascus and Alexandria. The Aleppo flights will be served by flydubai's third Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, which is due to arrive early next month.

One way fares to Aleppo from Dubai will cost from Dh300, and will be available for purchase from the website.

Flight No FZ223 will depart Dubai at 8am and arrive in Aleppo at 10.30am. The return flight, FZ224, will leave 45 minutes later at 11.15am and arrive in Dubai at 15.35pm local time.

Initially, flydubai will operate a daily service between the two cities to accommodate the busy summer period. From August 31, the flights will be four times per week.

Gaith Al Gaith, flydubai chief executive, said flights to Aleppo will mean the new airline can offer flights to the four largest cities in the Levant region.

"The advent of flydubai flights will ensure the extensive Syrian population in Dubai and the four million plus people living in Aleppo will be able to enjoy our fair fares and benefit from travel that is a little less complicated, a little less stressful and a little less expensive," he said.

"While Dubai is one of the world's newest cities, Aleppo is one of its oldest. The Syrian city has a fascinating history and we are sure many travellers from across the region will be eager to explore its leisure and business opportunities."

Salim Eisa Al Qattam Al-Za'abi, UAE Ambassador to Syria, said: "It is wonderful news that Syria will be the first country where flydubai has two destinations. Daily flights to the Aleppo Governorate will be perfect for people from both the UAE and Syria wanting to travel back and forth."

"Aleppo is also considered an important commercial centre making these flights an affordable opportunity for investors from both countries to explore potential investments in different sectors such as tourism, industry and others," he added.

Fact file

The flydubai model is simple, with customers only paying for the services they want. The ticket price includes all taxes and one piece of hand baggage, weighing up to 10kg, per passenger.

Passengers have the option to purchase checked-in baggage in advance at Dh40 for the first piece and Dh100 for the second, weighing up to 32kgs, subject to availability. A nominal payment of Dh5 allows customers to select their seat and just Dh50 secures extra legroom positions.

Tickets are changeable for a small fee, plus any difference in the fare, and food and drink can be purchased on board.