Turkey's Aviation Connectivity Is Expanding in 2026 — New Direct Flights and Routes

✈️ Turkey’s Aviation Connectivity Is Expanding in 2026 — New Direct Flights and Routes

Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, SunExpress, and AJet launch new services to Tirana, Yerevan, and beyond — boosting tourism and business travel.

In 2026, Turkey is rapidly expanding its international aviation network, with multiple airlines launching new direct flights and enhancing connectivity across Europe, Asia, and beyond. These developments reflect a broader push to strengthen travel options, tourism, and business links worldwide.

📈 Growing Turkish Flight Network

Major Turkish carriers — including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, SunExpress, and AJet — are rolling out new routes and increasing frequencies in 2026, expanding connections to a growing number of destinations globally.

🛫 Key Routes Launching in 2026

🇦🇱 Direct Flights to Tirana (Albania)

• Starting March 2, 2026 — AJet will launch direct flights from Istanbul to Tirana, with five weekly departures.
• Starting March 5, 2026 — Routes from Ankara to Tirana begin with two weekly flights, offering affordable connections between Turkey and Albania’s capital.

🇦🇲 Istanbul — Yerevan (Armenia)

• Starting March 11, 2026 — Turkish Airlines will introduce direct daily flights between Istanbul and Yerevan.
• Frequencies are expected to increase through the spring and summer months, potentially reaching up to 14 flights per week.

🌍 Broader International Growth

Turkey’s aviation expansion is part of a larger trend: carriers worldwide are boosting networks, and partnerships like codeshare agreements between airlines further improve travel options by offering smoother connections and more choice for passengers.

🤝 Codeshare growth: Turkish Airlines recently expanded codeshare agreements with IndiGo (India) and Air China, opening more one‑ticket itineraries to Asian destinations.

📌 Why This Matters

• ✈️ Greater accessibility: More direct flights mean easier, faster travel for tourists, expats, and business travellers to and from Turkey.
• 🌍 Stronger connectivity: New routes help link Turkey with both nearby regional capitals and further destinations across continents.
• 💼 Travel convenience: Increased flight options can lead to competitive pricing, more choice in schedules, and reduced dependence on connecting flights — especially beneficial for long‑haul and multi‑stop itineraries.

🧭 What to Expect Through 2026

Travel experts predict that airline expansions in 2026 will continue to evolve, with seasonal routes, budget connections, and partnerships strengthening Turkey’s position as a major global travel hub.

Whether you’re planning a holiday, a business trip, or a move abroad, Turkey’s growing flight network is making international travel more accessible and flexible than ever.

“Turkey is strategically positioning itself as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The 2026 network expansion is not just about adding routes — it’s about creating a seamless travel experience.”
— aviation analyst, İstanbul Air Show 2026

⚠️ Note: Flight schedules are subject to regulatory approvals and operational adjustments. Always check with the airline before booking.