British holidaymakers looking for affordable sun have reason to celebrate, as a lesser-known budget carrier has announced a significant expansion of its direct routes to Turkey.
SunExpress, a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines founded in 1989, is adding more flights to popular Turkish resorts from several UK and Irish airports, with one-way tickets starting from an incredibly low £48.
New Routes and Increased Capacity
Currently operating from 13 airports across the UK and Ireland, including its bases at London Luton, Birmingham, and Manchester, the low-cost airline is set to broaden its reach significantly. From summer 2026, SunExpress will commence new direct services that include a three-times-weekly flight from East Midlands Airport to Antalya.
Furthermore, the airline will launch twice-weekly routes from both London Gatwick and Manchester to the coastal city of Bodrum. Irish travellers are also included in the expansion, gaining twice-weekly flights from Cork to Antalya and direct services from Dublin to Dalaman.
This ambitious expansion will see SunExpress add a massive two million seats to its capacity from the UK and Ireland, bringing its total number of routes to an impressive 30.
Turkey's Sun-Soaked Hotspots
The new routes cater to the soaring popularity of Turkish destinations among Brits seeking value, stunning scenery, and reliable sunshine.
Antalya, often called Turkey's 'capital of tourism', is a Mediterranean gem. The city attracts millions with its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic mountain backdrop. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, bustling markets, and modern resorts. Temperatures here average a balmy 28°C in the summer.
Bodrum, stretching along the Aegean coast, is famed for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and relaxed vibe. The area is steeped in history, being home to the site of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C.
For those seeking a more tranquil escape, Dalaman is an up-and-coming choice. It offers a quieter nightlife scene, sandy beaches, ancient ruins like the city of Kaunos, and the chance to see nesting loggerhead turtles, all with a 'typically Turkish feel'.
Affordable Travel in a Competitive Market
This expansion comes at a time when the cost of holidays to Turkey has been rising. According to analysis by Eurochange, popular locations like Antalya and Bodrum have seen significant price increases. For comparison, Skyscanner data shows return flights from London to Bodrum in August starting at around £285 per adult.
SunExpress's new, competitively priced routes provide a welcome alternative for cost-conscious travellers. With the lowest fares, such as the £48 one-way ticket from London Luton to Antalya, the airline is positioning itself as a key player for affordable getaways.
Holidaymakers interested in booking these new direct flights to Turkey can visit the official SunExpress website for more information and to secure their seats.
