easyJet launches flights between Manchester and Istanbul

Istanbul in Turkey has become the latest new destination to join easyJet’s extensive short-haul network, with a brand new route from Manchester Airport.

The new route will be the first easyJet flights to Turkey’s largest city, and add to existing popular connections between Manchester and the country’s popular holiday destinations of Antalya and Dalaman. The announcement follows the reveal of February passenger volume data from Manchester Airport which found destinations in Turkey to be among those very close to or exceeding pre-pandemic service levels.

From 9th June 2023, easyJet will operate twice-weekly flights on Mondays and Fridays from Manchester Airport to Istanbul. Straddling two continents, and famously known as the city where East meets West, the city boasts a rich history and will offer customers a variety experiences; from the old city which reflects cultural influences of many historic empires, to world-famous landmarks like the Blue Mosque, while bargain hunters can stroll the iconic Grand Bazaar.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager said:

“We are delighted to be adding the brand new destination of Istanbul to easyJet’s network. The new route from our Manchester base to this iconic city further expands the choice we can offer our customers from the North-West for both flights and package holidays, and promises to offer travellers a vibrant and culturally rich destination to explore, as well as providing greater connectivity to the city to support inbound tourism and business travel alike.”

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, added:

“This new service is great news for travellers. easyJet has already announced that it will be basing an additional aircraft here at Manchester this summer, and the expansion of its route network demonstrates the strength of demand for leisure travel in our region, in spite of cost-of-living pressures.”

Arzu Kahraman Yilmaz, Counsellor of The Turkish Culture and Information Office, said:

“Istanbul has long been a popular destination with British visitors, and we very much welcome easyJet’s new route from Manchester. We are confident it will prove popular with those seeking to immerse themselves in culture in this vibrant city”

With Turkey’s South Eastern regions, as well as neighbouring Syria, recently affected by a catastrophic earthquake, easyJet passengers have also helped raise over £400,000 for UNICEF to support humanitarian efforts in the aftermath. Ali Gayward added:

“While [Istanbul] has thankfully not been affected by the recent tragic earthquakes, we continue to collect donations onboard our flights for UNICEF’s emergency appeal. We would like to thank all of our customers who have already donated for their kindness and generosity in raising over £400,000, which will help UNICEF and their volunteers to continue providing a vital lifeline in the region for the children and families who have been affected by the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.”

Onboard donations to UNICEF’s emergency appeal can currently be made in any currency onboard easyJet flights and will go directly towards supporting UNICEF’s round-the-clock emergency response in the region. In Syria, UNICEF is mobilising supplies and services to support the urgent needs of children and families. In Turkey, UNICEF has mobilised critical emergency supplies and ensured evacuation to safe spaces for children in affected areas.