Pegasus Airlines Expands Its Network With Direct Flights From Istanbul To Bilbao, Offering Enhanced Travel Options For Business And Leisure Travelers

Published on December 3, 2025

Pegasus Airlines has launched a new direct flight service between Istanbul and Bilbao, starting December 1, 2025, to enhance travel connectivity between Turkey and northern Spain. This strategic move comes in response to the growing demand from both leisure and business travelers, eager to explore the cultural richness and business opportunities in both regions. By introducing four weekly flights, Pegasus Airlines aims to foster closer ties between Turkey and Spain, facilitating easier travel for those seeking to enjoy Bilbao’s vibrant heritage, cuisine, and emerging business landscape. The new service not only strengthens the airline’s network but also supports tourism and trade between the two countries.

Pegasus Airlines is launching a new direct route between Istanbul and Bilbao starting on December 1, 2025, significantly enhancing travel connectivity between Turkey and northern Spain. The airline has confirmed that the new service will operate four times per week, responding to the increasing demand from both leisure and business travelers who are eager to explore these vibrant regions.

The new route will directly connect Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) with Bilbao Airport (BIO), adding much-needed capacity at a time when both regions are experiencing a surge in interest from international tourists. The flight schedule from Istanbul will feature departures at 09:20 on Mondays and at 10:15 on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. In the opposite direction, return flights from Bilbao will depart at 12:55 on Mondays, at 14:00 on Wednesdays and Fridays, and at 13:50 on Sundays.

The addition of this route will make it easier for travelers to visit the northern Spanish city, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and growing appeal as both a tourist destination and a business hub. For those in Istanbul, the new service offers an exciting opportunity to explore Bilbao’s picturesque surroundings, steeped in Basque culture, along with access to various international business opportunities that the city now offers.

This new service is part of Pegasus Airlines’ strategy to continuously expand its network and meet growing demand for convenient connections between Turkey and Europe. Istanbul, being a major global hub, offers easy access to travelers from different parts of the world, and adding Bilbao to its network further reinforces the city’s importance as a major international travel gateway.

The four times per week service is designed to support increasing trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Turkey and Spain. Turkey’s growing economic influence, along with its proximity to Europe, makes it a natural partner for Spain, which has long been a popular destination for both leisure travelers and business professionals alike. Bilbao, in particular, has become an emerging hotspot for international tourists, driven by its vibrant arts scene, modern architecture, and picturesque landscapes.

The introduction of direct flights between these two dynamic regions will make it easier for travelers to experience all that each destination has to offer. For instance, Bilbao is famous for the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a landmark of modern architecture and contemporary art, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. Visitors will also enjoy the stunning architecture of the city’s old quarter, delicious Basque cuisine, and access to scenic natural landscapes, from the green hills to the rugged coastline of the Bay of Biscay.

At the same time, Istanbul continues to be a premier destination for those seeking a mix of cultural exploration and modern amenities. With its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, the city offers tourists a rich historical experience, including famous landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. The addition of the Bilbao route strengthens Istanbul’s position as a gateway between Europe and Asia, attracting tourists and business travelers alike.

Bilbao Airport has expressed its enthusiasm for the new service, which it believes will further enhance its reputation as the key international gateway to northern Spain. The airport management is excited to see the commercial, tourism, and industrial ties between the Basque region and Turkey strengthen, as this new route makes it easier for travelers from Turkey to discover northern Spain’s unique offerings. From Bilbao, they can explore the lush greenery, rugged mountains, and world-renowned Basque culinary delights.

One of the most appealing aspects of the new service is the seamless travel experience it offers. Passengers will benefit from a direct connection between two major international airports, making travel simpler and more efficient. For business professionals, the direct flight will provide faster access to meetings and events in both cities. For tourists, it offers the chance to explore two exciting destinations without the hassle of layovers or complicated flight connections.

The launch of the Istanbul–Bilbao route is expected to bolster both tourism and trade flows between the two countries, with airlines, airports, and travel agencies eager to promote the new connection to potential passengers. In addition to tourism, business travel will also play a key role in driving the route’s success. Bilbao, with its growing reputation as a center for business and innovation, will attract many professionals looking to capitalize on its dynamic economy, while Istanbul continues to be a major commercial hub.

In addition to the leisure and business travelers, the new route is expected to help boost regional trade and foster closer ties between Turkey and Spain. As both nations continue to expand their presence in the global economy, this new air connection is likely to play a pivotal role in strengthening economic relationships, promoting bilateral trade, and further developing business partnerships in various industries.

The four weekly flights between Istanbul and Bilbao will provide enhanced air connectivity and convenience for travelers, reinforcing the links between Turkey and Spain as both countries look toward the future. The new service will support regional tourism, business growth, and cultural exchange, making it an important step in enhancing travel options between these two thriving regions.

Pegasus Airlines has launched a direct flight service between Istanbul and Bilbao starting December 1, 2025, to meet the rising demand for travel between Turkey and northern Spain. This new route will enhance accessibility, fostering stronger connections for both leisure and business travelers.

As we move into the 2026 travel season, Pegasus Airlines is poised to play a key role in driving growth in both leisure and business travel between Turkey and northern Spain. The direct service to Bilbao will undoubtedly be a popular addition for travelers seeking an efficient and exciting way to connect with these two culturally rich and economically vibrant destinations.