iGA Istanbul Airport strengthens Northern European network: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) launches Copenhagen flights

iGA Istanbul Airport strengthens Northern European network: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) launches Copenhagen flights

A new bridge between Türkiye and Scandinavia

ISTANBUL / COPENHAGEN – iGA Istanbul Airport (IST), the global hub connecting the world to Türkiye with over 100 airline partnerships and 340+ destinations, continues to expand its international reach. On Friday, 27 March, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) officially commenced daily direct flights between Copenhagen (CPH) and Istanbul (IST).

The new route will bolster the ties between Türkiye and the Scandinavian region, offering passengers enhanced accessibility and comfort. SAS will operate the route using modern Airbus A320neo aircraft with a 180-seat capacity.

Strategic momentum in Northern Europe

This collaboration marks an important milestone in iGA Istanbul Airport’s strategy to expand its airline portfolio and destination network. By responding to the growing travel demand between Scandinavia and Türkiye, this new partnership further builds on Istanbul’s standing as one of the world’s most connected aviation hubs.

Server Aydın, chief commercial officer at iGA Istanbul Airport, commented:

“We're very pleased to welcome Scandinavia’s flag carrier, SAS, to iGA Istanbul Airport. This partnership represents an important milestone in our sustainable growth strategy and will further enhance the economic and cultural connections between the Nordic countries and Türkiye. Strengthening our ties with Northern Europe supports our vision for Istanbul as a dynamic global hub and a key meeting point for travelers from around the world.”

A Cultural and Economic Gateway

Beyond offering flexibility and seamless connectivity, these daily flights are expected to contribute significantly to tourism and trade activities.

Henrik Winell, vice president of Network at Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), emphasized the importance of the agreement:

"Aviation plays a vital role in connecting people, businesses, and societies across regions. With the launch of our new Copenhagen-Istanbul route, we are thrilled to strengthen the link between Scandinavia and Türkiye while continuing to develop our global hub in Copenhagen. Through our commitment to punctual and reliable service, we continue to connect Scandinavia to the world and the world to Scandinavia."

iGA Istanbul Airport remains committed to developing new routes and strategic partnerships in line with its vision to be a leading global hub connecting continents, markets, and people.