Key Takeaways
• Turkish Airlines reached 2 million passengers at Birmingham Airport since 2008.
• Flight schedule increased to 18 weekly flights from Birmingham to Istanbul since June 10, 2025.
• Birmingham Airport saw a 12% passenger increase in 2024, reaching 12.85 million passengers.
Turkish Airlines has reached a major milestone at Birmingham Airport, carrying over two million passengers since it began flights there in December 2008. In early July 2025, the airline and airport celebrated this achievement, highlighting the growing demand for travel between the Midlands and Istanbul. The celebration comes as Turkish Airlines expands its flight schedule, now offering 18 weekly flights from Birmingham to Istanbul, up from 14, starting June 10, 2025. This move aims to give travelers more choices and make trips to Turkey and beyond easier.
Turkish Airlines’ Growth at Birmingham Airport
Since its first flight from Birmingham Airport in 2008, Turkish Airlines has steadily increased its presence. The airline’s two million passenger milestone shows how popular the route has become, especially for people in the Midlands region. The recent celebration included joint events and public announcements by both the airline and the airport, showing their strong partnership and shared commitment to serving local travelers.
Harun Basturk, Senior Vice President of Sales at Turkish Airlines, explained the reasons behind this growth: “We see strong demand from UK and Irish holidaymakers who want to visit Turkey. Our country’s culture, history, food, and beautiful coastal resorts attract many people. By adding more flights, we want to give travelers more flexibility and convenience.”
Flight Expansion: More Options for Travelers
The increase to 18 weekly flights between Birmingham Airport and Istanbul means travelers now have more choices for when to fly. This is especially helpful during the busy summer season, when many people travel for holidays or to visit family. With more flights, passengers can pick times that fit their schedules, reduce waiting times, and find better connections for onward travel.
Here’s what the new flight schedule means for travelers:
- More Departure Times: With 18 flights each week, there are now more options for morning, afternoon, and evening departures.
- Easier Connections: Istanbul Airport is a major hub, so travelers can easily connect to over 350 destinations worldwide, including cities in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
- Shorter Waits: More flights mean less time waiting for the next available departure, making trips smoother and less stressful.
Birmingham Airport’s Record Traffic
Birmingham Airport has also seen strong growth. In 2024, the airport welcomed 12.85 million passengers, which is a 12% increase from 2023 and nearly 2% higher than before the pandemic in 2019. June 2025 was the airport’s busiest month ever, with 1,360,957 passengers passing through. The partnership with Turkish Airlines has played a big part in this growth, helping to make Birmingham Airport a key hub for international travel.
Economic and Community Impact
The expansion of Turkish Airlines flights brings several benefits to the local community and economy:
- Boost for Tourism: More flights make it easier for people from the Midlands to visit Turkey 🇹🇷, which is known for its beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cities. At the same time, Turkish tourists can visit the UK 🇬🇧, supporting hotels, restaurants, and attractions in the region.
- Business Opportunities: The extra flights help businesses by making it easier to travel for meetings, trade, and investment. Companies in the Midlands can connect with partners in Turkey and other countries more easily.
- Job Creation: Higher passenger numbers mean more jobs at the airport and in related industries, such as hospitality, transport, and retail.
- Stronger Links: The flights help build closer ties between the UK 🇬🇧 and Turkey 🇹🇷, supporting cultural exchange and understanding.
Competitive Landscape: Turkish Airlines vs. Other Carriers
Turkish Airlines is not the only airline flying between Birmingham and Istanbul. Pegasus Airlines also offers daily flights to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. However, Turkish Airlines’ increase to 18 weekly flights gives it an edge, offering more flexibility and connections for travelers. The airline’s global network and reputation for quality service make it a preferred choice for many passengers.
Step-by-Step: Booking and Travel Process
Traveling from Birmingham Airport to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines is straightforward. Here’s a simple guide to help you plan your trip:
- Flight Search:
Visit the Turkish Airlines official website, use a travel agency, or check flight comparison sites to find available flights from Birmingham to Istanbul. - Booking:
Choose your preferred dates and times. With 18 weekly flights, you have plenty of options to fit your schedule. -
Check-in:
Online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight. You can also check in at the airport if you prefer. -
Baggage Allowance:
Turkish Airlines has standard baggage policies. You can find details on their website and add extra luggage if needed. -
Onward Connections:
If you’re traveling beyond Istanbul, you can easily connect to other flights at Istanbul Airport, which serves over 350 destinations. -
Arrival and Immigration:
When you arrive in Istanbul, follow signs to immigration. If you have a connecting flight, check the airport screens for gate information.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Travelers should check visa requirements before booking. For UK 🇬🇧 citizens, an e-Visa is required to enter Turkey 🇹🇷. You can apply for an e-Visa online through the official Turkish e-Visa portal. The process is simple and usually takes just a few minutes. Other nationalities should check the same website or consult their local Turkish embassy for up-to-date information.
What Passengers Need to Know
- How do I book a flight with Turkish Airlines from Birmingham?
You can book directly on the Turkish Airlines website, through a travel agent, or using online travel platforms. -
What are the baggage allowances?
Standard baggage allowances apply. Details are available on the Turkish Airlines website. -
Can I connect to other destinations from Istanbul?
Yes, Istanbul Airport is a major hub with flights to over 350 destinations worldwide. -
Are there any visa requirements for travel to Turkey?
Yes, most travelers, including UK 🇬🇧 citizens, need an e-Visa. Apply online before you travel.
Expert and Industry Perspectives
Industry analysts see Turkish Airlines’ expansion as a smart response to high demand for travel to Turkey 🇹🇷, especially during the summer. The airline’s large global network makes it a top choice for travelers who want to connect to other countries beyond Istanbul. Travel agents and tour operators report more interest in holiday packages to Turkey and other destinations, thanks to the extra flights and competitive prices.
Birmingham Airport officials say the partnership with Turkish Airlines is important for the airport’s growth. It helps make Birmingham a stronger regional hub and supports the local economy. The airport’s management has promoted the two million passenger milestone and the expanded flight schedule on its website and social media, showing how these developments benefit local travelers.
Background: Turkish Airlines and Birmingham Airport
Turkish Airlines started flying from Birmingham Airport in December 2008. Since then, the airline has grown its presence, adding more flights and serving a growing number of passengers each year. The two million passenger milestone is a sign of the airline’s commitment to the Midlands and its ability to adapt to changing travel patterns, including the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, Turkish Airlines’ steady growth at Birmingham Airport reflects both the airline’s strong reputation and the increasing demand for international travel from the Midlands. The partnership between the airline and the airport has helped both organizations grow and serve the needs of travelers.
Looking Ahead: Future Developments
Turkish Airlines is expected to keep growing its operations at Birmingham Airport. If demand continues to rise, the airline may add even more flights or explore new routes. Investments in digital services, such as better online booking and check-in tools, are likely to continue, making travel easier for passengers.
Both Turkish Airlines and Birmingham Airport are also focusing on sustainability. They are working to reduce their environmental impact by using more efficient aircraft, improving airport operations, and supporting industry-wide efforts to lower carbon emissions.
Practical Effects for Different Groups
- For Travelers:
The expanded flight schedule means more choices, easier connections, and less waiting. Travelers can reach Turkey 🇹🇷 and many other countries with fewer hassles. -
For Businesses:
Companies in the Midlands have better access to international markets, making it easier to trade, invest, and build partnerships. -
For the Local Economy:
More flights bring more visitors, which supports local jobs and businesses. The airport’s growth helps the whole region prosper.
Official Resources and Contact Information
If you need more information or want to book a flight, you can visit the Turkish Airlines official website or the Birmingham Airport official website. Both organizations offer customer support by phone, email, and social media.
For visa information and to apply for a Turkish e-Visa, visit the official Turkish e-Visa portal.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book Early: Flights can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times. Booking early gives you the best choice of dates and prices.
- Check Visa Requirements: Make sure you have the right visa before you travel. Apply online to save time at the airport.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time at the airport for check-in, security, and boarding.
- Pack Smart: Check baggage rules before you pack to avoid extra fees or delays.
- Stay Informed: Follow Turkish Airlines and Birmingham Airport on social media for the latest updates on flights and travel tips.
Summary and Takeaways
Turkish Airlines’ celebration of two million passengers at Birmingham Airport and the recent increase to 18 weekly flights to Istanbul show the airline’s strong commitment to serving the Midlands region. These changes give travelers more options and make it easier to reach Turkey 🇹🇷 and many other destinations. The partnership between Turkish Airlines and Birmingham Airport supports local jobs, boosts tourism, and helps businesses connect with the world.
As travel demand continues to grow, both the airline and the airport are likely to keep expanding and improving their services. Travelers, businesses, and the local community all stand to benefit from these positive developments.
For the latest travel information, flight schedules, and visa requirements, always check official sources like the UK government’s foreign travel advice and the Turkish Airlines website before you travel.
By staying informed and planning ahead, you can make the most of the new opportunities offered by Turkish Airlines and Birmingham Airport, whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or to visit family and friends.
Learn Today
e-Visa → An electronic visa allowing travelers to apply online for entry permission to Turkey before arrival.
Istanbul Airport → A major international airport and global hub connecting over 350 destinations worldwide.
Flight Schedule → The planned times and frequencies of flights an airline operates on specific routes.
Passenger Milestone → A significant number of travelers reached by an airline or airport over time.
Baggage Allowance → The permitted weight or number of bags passengers can carry on or check in.
This Article in a Nutshell
Turkish Airlines celebrates two million passengers at Birmingham Airport, expanding flights to 18 weekly to Istanbul. This boosts travel options, supporting tourism, business, and links between the Midlands and Turkey amid rising demand.
— By VisaVerge.com
