A lesser-known budget airline has added more direct routes to sun-soaked destinations from the UK – allowing British holidaymakers to snap up flights to Turkey from as little as £48 each way.
SunExpress, founded as a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines in 1989, currently operates from 13 airports across UK and Ireland.
With bases in London Luton, Birmingham and Manchester, the low-cost carrier is set to expand the number of routes it offers to popular Turkish hotspots from the UK.
From summer 2026, the airline will begin operating direct flights from the East Midlands to Antalya three times a week, and twice weekly routes from London Gatwick and Manchester to Bodrum.
Passengers in Ireland will also be able to board twice weekly flights from Cork to Antalya, or visit Dalaman directly from Dublin.
Through this expansion, the airline will add two million seats to its capacity from the UK and Ireland, bringing the total number of routes to 30.
In recent years, both Antalya and Bodrum have surged in popularity for Brits seeking sun, sea and value.
Antalya, now dubbed the ‘capital of tourism’ for the country, is located on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey.
SunExpress will expand the number of routes it offers popular Turkish hotspots from the UK and Ireland
From summer 2026, Irish passengers will be able to board twice weekly flights from Cork to Antalya (pictured), while flights to Antalya from the East Midlands will operate three times a week
Drawing millions of international visitors each year, the city boasts a stunning natural landscape, including long stretches of golden beaches, turquoise waters and rugged mountains, along with its historic Old Town, bustling markets and modern hotels.
Temperatures average 28C during the hottest months of the year, while late November brings temperatures of 19C to 24C.
Bodrum, another key city stretching from Turkey’s southwest coast into the Aegean Sea, is favoured for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, vibrant nightlife and relaxed atmosphere.
The area has a rich history – home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Mausoleum at Halicarnassus – and appeals to tourists from all walks of life with its beaches, water sports, traditional bazaars and fresh Aegean cuisine.
The coastal city has a hot, dry Mediterranean climate, with average temperatures of up to 35C in the summer and slightly lower temperatures at 26C during the colder months.
Dalaman, on the other hand, is an up-and-coming holiday pick for Brits seeking a combination of relaxation, adventure and cultural exploration.
Located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, the municipality offers quieter nightlife, sandy beaches, ancient sites like the city of Kaunos, natural wonders such as nesting loggerhead turtles, and a ‘typically Turkish feel’ wherever you go.
With prices starting at £48 for a one-way flight from London Luton to Antalya, holidaymakers can visit SunExpress’ official website to book or find out more.
Bodrum, another city with new direct SunExpress flights from the UK, is favoured for its beautiful beaches , vibrant nightlife and relaxed atmosphere
Dalaman is fast becoming a favourite for Brits seeking stunning natural views, relaxing beaches and quieter nightlife in Turkey
Though millions jet off to Turkey each year for their summer holidays, on the hunt for sandy shores, great prices and amazing cuisine.
But there are other destinations that offer similar luxury for less than half the cost of a typical trip to the European hotspot.
According to Eurochange, holidays to popular locations in Turkey – including Antalya and Bodrum – have seen huge increases in price, and a fall in tourists.
Skyscanner has return flights from London to Bodrum in August starting at £285 per adult, the travel money company revealed.
#Littleknown #European #budget #airline #flights #Turkey
