Bristol Airport Launches Direct Flight To Istanbul, Connecting The South West With Turkey And Beyond

Published on July 9, 2025

Bristol Airport is also bringing Turkey closer, after unveiling a brand-new direct route to Istanbul. Pegasus Airlines’ route is an exciting breakthrough in enhancing travel options for residents of South West England, and will bring lesiure and business travellers one step closer. When it landed at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, its initial Bristol flight, which was welcomed, opens a whole range of options for residents in the region.

With more than 150 destinations within Turkey and beyond, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is a major hub for Pegasus Airlines, connecting travelers to places as far-reaching as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Morocco, Doha, and many parts of Turkey. This new direct flight eliminates the need for travelers from Bristol to trek to London to access these destinations, making international travel easier, faster, and more efficient.

Rupert Lawrie, commercial director at Bristol Airport, highlighted how the addition of Pegasus Airlines to the airport’s offerings will provide even more opportunities for local travelers and businesses. “Pegasus is a fantastic addition to Bristol Airport, and it will provide even more opportunities for people to explore Turkey and beyond,” Lawrie said. “No longer do you need to travel to London to reach exotic destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Morocco, and Doha, saving you time and additional pressure by flying from Bristol.”

The new service runs three times a week, offering greater flexibility for those planning trips to Istanbul and beyond. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a longer business trip, travelers can now start their journey sooner from the comfort of their local airport, avoiding the stress and delays of longer travel times.

A Boost for Local Tourism and Business

The addition of this direct flight also benefits inbound tourism, particularly for the local communities in Bristol, Bath, and the wider West of England region. The new route is expected to bring more visitors from Turkey, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC), Africa, and beyond to the region. As well as being a boost for tourism, the flight will help connect family and friends, ensuring that the South West of England is well-connected to some of the world’s most exciting destinations.

Kathryn Davis, chief executive of Visit West, expressed her excitement about the new connection. “We are delighted to welcome the first visitors on board the Pegasus Airlines flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport into Bristol Airport,” Davis said. “The new flight route opens up a wealth of connectivity, making it easier for visitors to fly into the West of England from Turkey, GCC countries, Africa, and beyond.”

Davis also noted how the new year-round service will have a positive impact on the local economy by supporting the region’s visitor economy. “Pegasus Airlines’ new year-round service will increase opportunities for visitors to travel here throughout the year and support our Local Visitor Economy, by drawing business to hotels, attractions, and high streets in Bristol, Bath, and the wider West of England region.”

This is more than just an improvement in transportation; it is an opportunity to showcase the beauty, culture, and history of the South West of England to a wider audience. The vibrant city of Bristol, along with the historic city of Bath, is already a popular destination for domestic and international tourists. With easier access from Turkey and the Middle East, local businesses are poised to benefit from increased tourism, which will directly support local jobs, hospitality, and services.

Greater Connectivity for the South West of England

Before the launch of this new route, many travelers from the South West had to travel to London to catch flights to Istanbul and other global destinations. This new direct route not only makes travel more convenient but also strengthens Bristol Airport’s role as an international hub. The ability to fly directly from Bristol to Istanbul opens up many exciting opportunities for both business and leisure travelers, providing easier access to key markets in the Middle East and beyond.

Furthermore, Pegasus Airlines’ introduction of this route underscores the growing importance of regional airports like Bristol. As the demand for more convenient international travel continues to grow, airports like Bristol are becoming critical points of connection for local travelers who seek to explore the world while avoiding the added stress of traveling from major cities like London.

This new route also opens the door for future collaborations between Bristol and other major international airports, further increasing the region’s visibility on the global travel map.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Bristol and Beyond

As the year progresses, this new flight route from Bristol to Istanbul represents just one of the many ways that the airport continues to grow and diversify its offerings. It is clear that Pegasus Airlines’ new service will play an important role in boosting both the local tourism industry and Bristol’s international connectivity.

For travelers in the South West of England, the direct flight to Istanbul is not just about convenience – it’s about opening up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re traveling for business, to explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture, or to embark on a journey to the Middle East, this new service from Bristol Airport promises to make the process easier, faster, and more affordable than ever before.

By strengthening its connection to Turkey, the Middle East, and beyond, Bristol Airport is ensuring that regional travelers are no longer held back by geography. Instead, they now have a straight ticket to some of the world’s most exciting destinations, all without a long and arduous journey to London.