SunExpress Announces 10 New International Routes for 2026 – Full Guide for Travelers
SunExpress, the joint venture of Türk Hava Yolları (THY) and Lufthansa, has officially announced a major expansion for the 2026 summer season. With 10 brand-new international routes departing from Antalya, İzmir, Bodrum, Edremit, and Hatay, the airline strengthens its position as one of Europe’s most important leisure carriers. This comprehensive guide covers all newly announced destinations, travel dates, flight frequencies, and how these developments will benefit both Turkish tourism and international travelers.
SunExpress launches 10 new international routes for the 2026 season from Antalya, İzmir, Bodrum, Edremit and Hatay. Learn flight dates, frequencies, new European destinations, and how this expansion boosts Turkish tourism.
SunExpress Expands Globally With 10 New Routes for 2026
According to tourism sources and airline industry announcements, SunExpress will significantly increase its European connectivity next year. As demand for Turkey—especially Antalya and the Aegean region—continues to grow, the airline aims to make travel easier for millions of passengers.
The new destinations include strategic routes from Antalya to Germany, the UK, Portugal, and more, as well as new seasonal connections from İzmir and the Bodrum-Milas Airport.
This expansion positions SunExpress as one of the fastest-growing leisure airlines in Europe.
1. Antalya to Memmingen Airport – Starts March 2026
One of the most notable additions is the Antalya–Memmingen route.
Flight Details:
- Starts: March 2026
- Frequency: 5 times per week
- Airline: SunExpress (operating May 11–June 24 and August 2–September 19 as daily flights)
Memmingen Airport, located in southern Germany near Munich, is extremely popular among German holidaymakers due to its easy access and affordability. This route is expected to bring thousands of tourists to Antalya’s hotels, beach resorts, and wellness centers throughout spring and summer.
2. Daily Flights from May to September
SunExpress also revealed that between:
- May 11 – June 24, 2026, and
- August 2 – September 19, 2026,
the airline will operate daily flights on several German routes, strengthening Antalya as the top summer destination in Europe.
These daily connections will support Turkey’s tourism sector during the busiest holiday months, especially as the demand from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland continues to rise.
3. Antalya to Hanover and Munich – Strengthened Summer Schedule
In addition to Memmingen, SunExpress will expand its operations on two major German routes:
Antalya → Hanover
- Frequency: Weekly flights
- Start: May 2026
Antalya → Munich
- Frequency: Weekly flights
- Start: May 2026
Germany remains Turkey’s biggest tourism market. By increasing flights to Hanover and Munich, SunExpress aims to offer more options for German families, couples, and business travelers planning summer holidays on the Turkish Riviera.
4. Antalya to Cork (Ireland) – Seasonal Summer Route
A very exciting addition is the new Antalya → Cork connection, strengthening travel opportunities for Irish tourists.
Flight Details:
- Start Date: May 16, 2026
- Frequency: Weekly
- Operating Days: Saturdays
SunExpress becomes one of the few airlines connecting the Turkish Riviera directly with Ireland. This will boost tourism from Cork, Dublin, and surrounding regions, attracting travelers seeking sunshine, beaches, and all-inclusive resorts.
5. Antalya to East Midlands (UK) – March 2026
The UK continues to be one of the most important tourism markets for Turkey. SunExpress will launch a new route connecting Antalya to East Midlands Airport, covering cities such as Nottingham, Leicester, and Derby.
Flight Details:
- Start Date: March 2026
- Frequency: 3 flights per week
This route offers British tourists a comfortable travel option to Turkey during early spring when holiday prices are more affordable.
6. İzmir Destinations – Porto and Sofia Coming in 2026
SunExpress also expands its network from İzmir, offering two new exciting routes:
İzmir → Porto (Portugal)
- Start: April 24, 2026
- Frequency: Once per week
This connection allows Turkish travelers to explore Portugal’s famous coastal city, wine culture, and UNESCO heritage sites.
İzmir → Sofia (Bulgaria)
- Start: April 2026
- Details Coming Soon
Sofia offers access to Balkan culture, ski resorts, historic monuments, and affordable shopping options for Turkish passengers.
7. Bodrum–Milas Airport to London Gatwick & Manchester
Aegean tourism gets a strong push with two new UK routes:
Bodrum → London Gatwick
- Start: May 4, 2026
Bodrum → Manchester
- Start: May 4, 2026
These routes are particularly important for:
- Holidaymakers traveling to Gumbet, Bitez, Turgutreis, Yalıkavak, Türkbükü
- Health tourists visiting Bodrum for dental and aesthetic treatments
- British expats with homes in Bodrum
With these two key airports, the UK–Bodrum travel network becomes stronger than ever.
8. Additional Routes Cover Edremit and Hatay in 2026
SunExpress confirmed that its 2026 schedule also includes new destinations planned for Edremit and Hatay, helping support regional development. Full route details for these cities will be announced later, but they are expected to be direct connections to Germany or the Netherlands.
Why These New Routes Matter for Turkish Tourism
The launch of 10 new routes is expected to:
- Increase foreign tourist arrivals in Antalya, Bodrum, and İzmir
- Strengthen Turkey’s position as a leading holiday destination
- Support health tourism (dental, hair transplant, aesthetics)
- Boost local businesses, hotels, and transportation services
- Provide more affordable flight options for travelers
With Lufthansa’s global network and THY’s strong local presence, SunExpress plays a critical role in connecting Turkey with Europe.
A Strong Summer 2026 Ahead
The 10 new international routes introduced by SunExpress signal a powerful growth in Turkey’s tourism landscape. With additional flights to Germany, Portugal, Ireland, the UK, and Bulgaria, passengers will enjoy more comfort, more frequency, and more destination choices than ever before.
If you plan to visit Antalya, Bodrum, İzmir, or nearby regions in 2026, these new routes will make your journey easier, faster, and more affordable.