Published on
February 14, 2026
SunExpress is significantly expanding its summer 2026 program from Cologne Bonn Airport, adding more routes and increasing frequencies to key destinations in Turkey. From March 28, 2026, the airline will operate up to 7 daily flights to Antalya, one of Turkey’s most popular beach destinations. In addition to this, SunExpress is introducing three new routes to Cukurova, Elazig, and Trabzon, making it easier for travelers to explore more parts of Turkey this summer.
With the introduction of these new routes, SunExpress will offer travelers the ability to visit nine exciting destinations in Turkey, with up to 78 weekly flights from Cologne/Bonn. The expanded flight options reflect the growing demand for travel to Turkey, which remains a favorite among European travelers for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.
New Routes to Cukurova, Elazig, and Trabzon
For 2026, SunExpress is offering travelers new opportunities to visit Cukurova, Elazig, and Trabzon. The airline will begin weekly flights to Cukurova on March 29, increasing to 2X-weekly from May 13. This new route opens up the southern region of Turkey, an area known for its agricultural and cultural heritage. Elazig, located in the eastern part of Turkey, will also receive weekly flights starting April 2, offering visitors access to this less-explored region. Finally, Trabzon, a port city on the Black Sea coast, will be served with weekly flights starting March 30, increasing to 2X-weekly from May 22. Trabzon is famous for its natural beauty and historical sites, including the Sumela Monastery and the Uzungol Lake.
These new routes provide more variety for tourists looking to explore beyond the typical Turkish destinations, such as Istanbul and Antalya, offering access to unique regions rich in history and culture. Whether you’re looking for coastal beauty, historical landmarks, or a taste of rural life, these new destinations will enhance Turkey’s appeal to European tourists in 2026.
Increased Frequencies to Popular Turkish Destinations
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In addition to the new routes, SunExpress is also increasing the number of flights to several established destinations in Turkey. The airline’s service to Antalya, one of Turkey’s most famous beach resorts, will see an increase in capacity, with up to 7 daily flights from Cologne/Bonn starting on March 28, 2026. Antalya is a hotspot for sun-seeking tourists, with its Mediterranean beaches, luxury resorts, and ancient ruins. The additional flights make it easier for travelers to enjoy the perfect beach holiday on the Turkish Riviera.
Flights to Samsun, another Black Sea destination, will also increase, with frequencies doubling to 2X-weekly starting June 24, 2026. This increase in flights reflects the rising interest in the Black Sea coast, known for its lush greenery, charming towns, and natural beauty.
The airline will also increase flights to Kayseri, a city known for its rich Ottoman architecture and its proximity to the Cappadocia region, famous for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides. Starting June 25, 2026, SunExpress will operate 3X-weekly flights to Kayseri, up from the previous 2X-weekly service. The increase in flights to both Samsun and Kayseri opens up new travel opportunities for visitors looking to explore less-touristy regions of Turkey.
Boosting Access to Turkey for Summer 2026
With the addition of Cukurova, Elazig, and Trabzon, along with the expanded services to Antalya, Samsun, and Kayseri, SunExpress is offering an impressive range of travel options for tourists in 2026. The new routes and increased flight frequencies aim to provide more flexibility and accessibility for travelers seeking to experience the diverse offerings of Turkey—from its coastal resorts and historical cities to its cultural gems in more rural areas. With more flights available, it’s easier than ever for tourists to plan their perfect Turkish getaway.
The expansion of SunExpress’ network is particularly beneficial for tourists looking to enjoy both the popular, well-known parts of Turkey and the more off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer a more authentic, less crowded experience. With the airline’s affordable rates and increased flexibility, it is now easier for travelers from Germany and surrounding countries to explore Turkey’s diverse regions.
Supporting Tourism and Business Travel Between Turkey and Germany
Turkey remains a favorite destination for German tourists, with a rich cultural history, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled natural beauty. The expanded network from Cologne/Bonn to Turkey aligns with the growing demand for both leisure and business travel between the two countries. As Germany is home to a large Turkish diaspora, these expanded flight options also provide greater ease for family visits and travel between the two nations.
With the rise of both cultural tourism and business travel, SunExpress’ efforts to increase the number of routes and flight frequencies are a timely response to the increasing demand. The expanded summer program will also contribute to the continued recovery of the travel industry, providing economic benefits to both Turkey’s tourism sector and the airlines themselves.
Conclusion: SunExpress’ Role in Shaping Turkish Tourism in 2026
SunExpress’ expansion of services from Cologne Bonn to Turkey for the summer of 2026 represents a major step in enhancing connectivity between the two regions. With new routes to Cukurova, Elazig, and Trabzon, alongside increased flights to popular destinations like Antalya, Samsun, and Kayseri, the airline is making it easier for travelers to explore the many facets of Turkey.
The increased frequency of flights reflects the strong demand for travel to Turkey and ensures that travelers can enjoy more flexibility and choice when planning their trips. Whether for leisure, business, or cultural exploration, the expanded flight network by SunExpress offers exciting possibilities for those seeking to experience the best of Turkey.
