Turkish Airlines announced its plan to launch flights from London Stansted Airport to Istanbul Airport from Mar 2026.
About the new route
From Mar 18, 2026, Turkish Airlines will run 14 weekly flights from Stansted to Istanbul Airport in Türkiye.
Stansted will become the sixth airport that connected within Turkish Airlines’ network. Currently, the airline operates flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh airports. The airline is also operating flights to Dublin Airport to serve the Irish market.
The expansion aligns with the airport’s £1.1 billion investment plan announced in Oct 2024, with a £600 million terminal expansion to enhance the passenger experience with more space, upgraded amenities, and new retail outlets. The airport is expected to serve up to 43 million travellers each year upon completion, while creating 5,000 job opportunities and reaching a £2 billion economic contribution yearly.
Current route to the UK and Ireland during the peak holiday season
In addition to the planned expansion to Stansted Airport, the airline is currently offering weekly services from the UK and Ireland region, in particular, during the peak holiday season.
In London, the airline is running 47 flights from London Heathrow Airport and 28 flights from London Gatwick Airport.
Outside London, the airline is also operating 18 flights from Birmingham, 28 flights from Manchester, and 14 flights from Edinburgh.
For Ireland, the airline is offering 21 flights from Dublin.
Turkish Airlines’ General Manager for London Mehmet Gurulkan said:
“This new service increases our total weekly UK – Istanbul frequencies, providing passengers even more choice and greater connectivity to our global network. By operating from Stansted, we are happy to support the airport’s continued growth and contribute to job creation and economic development in the region.”
London Stansted Airport Managing Director Gareth Powell said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Turkish Airlines to London Stansted. This is a major milestone for the airport and a strong vote of confidence in both our operation and the vibrant, fast-growing region we serve.”
Have you travelled from London Stansted Airport? Are you excited about the new service? Leave your comment below!
