London Stansted Airport is set for a significant expansion in 2026. The airport is welcoming a major new airline and a host of fresh destinations. The airport confirmed Turkish Airlines will commence operations in March. This will be alongside new routes from Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, TUI, and BA CityFlyer, dramatically increasing choice for both leisure and business travellers.
Turkish Airlines Joins The Crew
The headline addition is undoubtedly Turkish Airlines, which will begin flying to Istanbul from March 18, 2026 with up to 15 weekly services. This move not only provides a direct link to Turkey but also opens seamless onward connectivity to over 350 destinations across Asia, Africa, and Australia. The carrier’s debut spotlights Stansted’s growing status as a key international gateway beyond its traditional European network.
Travellers Spoilt For Choice With New Holiday Destinations
Several airlines are bolstering Stansted’s short-haul map. Ryanair will add a twice-weekly service to Malmö, Sweden from April 1 and increase flights to Glasgow. From March 5, easyJet will launch a new route to Paris Charles de Gaulle. For summer sun seekers, Jet2 is expanding with new flights to Jerez, Samos, and La Palma. TUI will introduce services to Kos. AJet will connect travellers to Bodrum from June, and BA CityFlyer will offer a link to Olbia in Sardinia from May.
Commercial Director Ciaran Brannigan said the airport was
“delighted to welcome new airlines and routes” that offer passengers “greater choice, value and convenience.”
He emphasised the additions reinforce Stansted’s commitment to enhanced connectivity.
Which new Stansted route are you most excited about? Tell us in the comments below.
