Pegasus Airlines’ Latest Launch: Istanbul-Bilbao Route Set to Drive Unmatched Business and Tourism Growth Between Turkey and Spain!

Published on December 8, 2025

Pegasus Airlines has announced a major new direct flight route between Istanbul and Bilbao, set to launch on 1 December 2025. This new service will operate four times a week, enhancing connectivity between Türkiye and northern Spain, catering to the increasing demand for both tourism and business travel. With growing interest in Spain’s northern regions, this direct route promises a significant boost for travellers looking to explore the cultural and business opportunities between Istanbul, Türkiye’s bustling gateway, and Bilbao, one of Spain’s standout cities known for its rich heritage, vibrant culinary scene, and growing appeal.

The New Route: Connecting Istanbul and Bilbao

Pegasus Airlines will offer a seamless travel experience connecting Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) and Bilbao Airport (BIO). The service will provide enhanced capacity, responding to the rising popularity of northern Spain as a destination for both leisure and business trips. This direct connection will save valuable time for those who previously had to endure multiple layovers and lengthy travel times to reach their destination.

The new flights will depart from Istanbul at 09:20 on Mondays and at 10:15 on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The return flights from Bilbao will depart at 12:55 on Mondays, at 14:00 on Wednesdays and Fridays, and at 13:50 on Sundays, providing travellers with flexibility in scheduling their trips.

Why Bilbao and Istanbul Are Important Travel Hubs

Istanbul, the dynamic crossroads of Europe and Asia, has long been one of the world’s most influential hubs for business, culture, and tourism. As a key city in Türkiye, it attracts millions of visitors each year, whether for trade, leisure, or cultural exchanges. By adding Bilbao to its extensive network, Pegasus Airlines strengthens its commitment to offering enhanced travel options between Istanbul, one of the world’s most important gateways, and destinations in northern Spain.

Bilbao, in the Basque Country, is known for its unique blend of modern architecture, including the famous Guggenheim Museum, alongside a thriving cultural and culinary scene. The city has seen increasing attention from both tourists and business travellers, becoming a magnet for those seeking rich cultural experiences, top-notch gastronomy, and a growing hub for innovation and trade.

The Impact on Tourism and Business

This new route comes at a crucial time, with both Istanbul and Bilbao seeing a significant uptick in tourism and business activity. According to government sources and industry reports, the demand for travel between Türkiye and Spain has been steadily increasing, particularly in the areas of leisure tourism, business meetings, and trade partnerships.

For travellers seeking to explore the beautiful and less-visited parts of Spain, Bilbao offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. The city’s increasing prominence as a cultural centre and hub for international business is a significant draw for professionals and entrepreneurs from around the globe.

For Istanbul travellers, the direct flight to Bilbao opens up a world of opportunities for leisure trips, business networking, and cultural exchange. The route not only strengthens the ties between the two cities but also facilitates the growing tourism between Türkiye and northern Spain, two regions brimming with untapped potential.

Pegasus Airlines: Enhancing Global Connectivity

In a statement announcing the launch of the new service, Onur Dedeköylü, Chief Commercial Officer of Pegasus Airlines, expressed the airline’s excitement about the new direct connection. He highlighted the importance of Istanbul as a bridge between continents and as a business and cultural hub of unparalleled significance. He also noted the role that Bilbao plays in attracting both leisure and trade visitors, making it a natural addition to the airline’s expanding network.

Dedeköylü added that the new flights would support the growing demand for direct connections between Türkiye and Spain, making travel more accessible and efficient for passengers. He emphasized that Pegasus Airlines is proud to offer customers increased flexibility, enhanced travel options, and a chance to experience the beauty and opportunity that both Istanbul and Bilbao have to offer.

Booking Your Flight: Easy Access and Convenient Schedules

Tickets for the new Istanbul-Bilbao route are already available for booking through flypgs.com, the Pegasus Airlines mobile app, and various authorised sales channels. The airline encourages passengers to take advantage of the new, flexible flight schedules and competitive pricing. Whether you’re planning a cultural getaway, a business trip, or a combination of both, this direct flight makes it easier than ever to travel between these two exciting destinations.

Advice for Passengers

For passengers planning to travel on the new Istanbul-Bilbao route, it is advisable to book early, as demand for direct flights to this increasingly popular route is expected to be high. As this route will operate four times a week, booking in advance will ensure better availability of preferred flight times. Pegasus Airlines also encourages passengers to check in online and arrive at the airport with sufficient time to avoid any last-minute delays.

More Information About the Istanbul-Bilbao Flight

This direct service is just the latest example of Pegasus Airlines’ commitment to expanding its network and improving connectivity between Türkiye and key international destinations. The airline has consistently sought to provide more options and improved services for both leisure and business travellers, and the launch of the Istanbul-Bilbao route is a testament to that commitment.

Additionally, Bilbao’s rapid rise as an international destination for both tourists and business travellers has only accelerated in recent years. The Basque Country’s culinary heritage, rich history, and dynamic modern culture are drawing people from all over the world, making Bilbao one of the most exciting places to visit in Spain today.