From Prague to the Mediterranean: Pegasus Airlines Acquisition Unlocks New Budget-Friendly Travel Opportunities Across Europe

Published on December 9, 2025

Travelers worldwide have a fresh reason to explore Europe. Pegasus Airlines, the Turkish low-cost carrier, has agreed to acquire Czech Airlines and its subsidiary Smartwings in a €154 million deal. Once regulatory approval is secured, this acquisition is expected to reshape European travel, offering more affordable routes and smoother connections for tourists and business travelers alike.

New Routes and Better Connectivity for Tourists

Czech Airlines and Smartwings currently serve more than 80 destinations across Europe. Pegasus Airlines operates flights to over 150 destinations globally. Combining these networks will give travelers easier access to European cities—from Prague’s historic streets to Mediterranean coastal gems.

This merger opens doors for multi-city travel. For example, a tourist can land in Prague and conveniently connect to Budapest, Vienna, or Berlin without lengthy layovers or complicated bookings. Leisure travelers seeking cultural and scenic experiences across Europe will find more direct flights and improved schedules.

Affordable Travel Options for Every Budget

A major advantage for tourists is cost efficiency. Pegasus Airlines is known for competitive fares, and the addition of Czech Airlines and Smartwings is expected to maintain budget-friendly travel options. Whether planning a short weekend getaway or a longer European tour, travelers can enjoy more choices for low-cost flights without compromising convenience or comfort.

Smartwings will continue to focus on affordable travel, while Czech Airlines maintains its traditional service, creating a multi-tier travel option. This means tourists can choose flights that match their needs and budget, whether they prefer economy-focused options or slightly premium services.

Prague: A Central European Travel Hub

Prague, already a popular destination for tourists, is set to become an even more accessible hub. With the combined operations of Pegasus, Czech Airlines, and Smartwings, travelers can use Prague as a gateway to explore Central and Eastern Europe.

From Prague, short flights or train rides can take visitors to other iconic cities, such as Vienna, Bratislava, and Krakow. Tourists seeking historic architecture, vibrant culture, or scenic landscapes will benefit from this improved connectivity.

Streamlined Travel Experience Through Multi-Brand Strategy

The airlines will retain their distinct brands, which benefits travelers by offering options that suit different preferences. Pegasus Airlines brings a technology-driven approach to booking and in-flight services, aiming to reduce delays and enhance overall passenger experience.

This multi-brand strategy means tourists can enjoy the reliability of Czech Airlines, the budget-friendly flights of Smartwings, and the wide-reaching network of Pegasus Airlines—all under one consolidated airline group.

Future Expansion and Travel Prospects

With the acquisition, travelers can anticipate seasonal route expansion and additional European destinations. This move is expected to improve inter-European connectivity and allow tourists to plan multi-city trips more efficiently.

For example, a traveler could book flights from Istanbul to Prague with Pegasus and then connect to smaller European cities using Smartwings. This flexibility makes planning European holidays more seamless and less expensive, especially for international tourists.

Travel Tips for Tourists Planning European Adventures

• Check multi-city itineraries: Utilize the combined network to visit multiple European cities in one trip.
• Plan for seasonal deals: New routes and promotions may offer low-cost travel during peak tourist seasons.
• Use Prague as a base: Explore Central Europe efficiently by flying into Prague and connecting to neighboring cities.
• Budget wisely: Compare options between Czech Airlines, Smartwings, and Pegasus for the best fares.
• Stay informed on flight schedules: As the merger progresses, more direct routes may become available.

Conclusion

For global travelers, the Pegasus Airlines acquisition of Czech Airlines and Smartwings is more than a corporate deal—it’s a travel opportunity. It brings better connectivity, more affordable fares, and a wider selection of destinations across Europe.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway in Prague, a cultural tour through Central Europe, or an extended Mediterranean adventure, this airline consolidation provides travelers with the tools to explore Europe with ease and comfort.

With affordable flights, improved connectivity, and a multi-brand approach, tourists now have more freedom than ever to plan personalized European journeys.