Pegasus Airlines launches route to Istanbul from Bristol Airport - and provides connections to countries further afield
Pegasus Airlines partners with Bristol Airport to fly directly to Istanbul in Turkey
• New route provides low-cost flights for onward travel to the Middle East, North Africa and Asia
• More visitors will be able to explore the region and support the local visitor economy
Pegasus Airlines made its inaugural flight from Bristol Airport today (8 July), providing a direct route to Turkey and onward journeys to far-reaching destinations in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia.
Pegasus Airlines has expanded its flight network this summer by adding a new direct route from Bristol to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport – a hub airport with more than 150 destinations within Turkey and beyond.
Colleagues at Bristol Airport welcomed visitors from the first flight, many of whom from the inbound journey were visiting the region. Meanwhile, the outbound flight saw passengers benefiting from the new low-cost airline based at Bristol to explore Turkey’s cultural capital.
Rupert Lawrie, Commercial Director at Bristol Airport, said:
“Pegasus will be a fantastic addition to Bristol Airport providing even more opportunities for people to explore Turkey and beyond.
“No longer do you need to travel to London to reach exotic destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Morocco and Doha, saving you time and additional pressure by flying from Bristol Airport. Your trip will start sooner when you fly from Bristol.
“It’s also good news for inbound tourism; for local communities who want to connect with family and friends; and for businesses in the South West and South Wales who have overseas interests."
Pegasus Airlines launched its three-times weekly service from Bristol to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, a major hub airport in Turkey, on 8 July 2025.
Kathryn Davis, CEO of Visit West, said:
“We are delighted to welcome the first visitors on board the Pegasus Airlines flight from Istanbul Gökçen International Airport into Bristol Airport.
“The new flight route opens up a wealth of connectivity, making it easier for visitors to fly into the West of England from Turkey, Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC), Africa and beyond.
“Pegasus Airlines’ new year-round service will increase opportunities for visitors to travel here throughout the year and support our Local Visitor Economy, by drawing business to hotels, attractions and high streets in Bristol, Bath and the wider West of England region.”
Pegasus flights from Bristol to Istanbul start from £70 one-way including taxes. Book via flypgs.com or the Pegasus mobile app.
