SunExpress UK and Ireland carryings to Turkey up 22% this year  

SunExpress reported an “upward trend” in early bookings to Turkey while reporting a 22% rise in summer carryings from the UK and Ireland.

 

The year on year increase saw the Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines joint venture leisure airline fly more than 1.5 million passengers from the two countries.

 

The figures cover routes from 13 UK and Ireland departure points to six airports across Turkey, including new flights from Glasgow, Liverpool and Cork.

 

The airline is poised to operate the largest number of flights from the UK to Antalya and Izmir in 2026.

 

East Midlands airport is being added as a new departure point for flights to Antalya next summer. 

 

SunExpress has carried more than 13 million passengers since the beginning of the year across its entire network, up 8%  over the same period last year, and with a load factor of 85%. 

 

The airline also added a total of 15 new international routes to its network during the 2025 summer season, operating with a fleet of 85 Boeing 737 aircraft.

 

Chief executive Max Kownatzki said: “The UK and Ireland are now among our fastest growing markets in recent years. 

 

"Since 2022, we have quadrupled our seat capacity and have become the leading carrier in terms of UK airport connectivity to Turkey. 

 

“Early bookings are showing an upward trend compared to last year. 

 

“Turkey continues to hold a strong position in the European market thanks to its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, warm hospitality and strong value-for-money proposition.”