SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, achieved a revenue of 1.8 billion euros in 2023, marking a 21% increase compared to the previous year. The airline recorded an 85% occupancy rate. In the 2024 summer season, SunExpress aims to expand its flight network to its widest ever by adding 28 new routes.
Max Kownatzki, CEO of SunExpress, stated, “Turkey continues to be one of the top destinations in the minds of travelers this year as well. The high demand we witnessed in 2023 is also reflected in this year’s reservation numbers. Turkey stands out as an ideal travel destination with its wide range of activities, different experiential opportunities, and value-for-money ratio. As SunExpress, we have further expanded our direct flights to Turkey. As Turkey’s tourism market prepares for growth, we are also doing our part as ambassadors of Turkish tourism.”
The widest flight network between Europe and Turkey
Adding 28 new routes to its flight network for the 2024 summer program, SunExpress is increasing its seat capacity by 19% this summer. The airline offers scheduled flights to more than 200 destinations in over 35 countries.
SunExpress adds 18 new routes to the Turkish Riviera, offering flights to a total of 67 destinations from Antalya, Izmir, Dalaman, and Bodrum-Milas airports.
Additionally, SunExpress adds 10 new international routes to its Anatolian-European flight network, providing direct flights from 15 cities in Anatolia to 18 destinations in Europe and 3 in the Middle East. Kownatzki said, “As SunExpress, while we reunite our guests of Turkish origin living in Europe with their families and loved ones, we also continue to support local tourism in Anatolian cities.”
15 million passengers in 2024
Having set a record with 12.6 million passengers in 2023, SunExpress aims to carry 15 million passengers this year.
Kownatzki emphasized their commitment to making Turkey a destination visited throughout the year, saying, “We continue to contribute to Turkey’s goal of attracting 60 million tourists. Together with the Turkish Tourism Promotion and Development Agency, we continue our efforts to promote Turkish tourism abroad and highlight Turkey as a versatile travel destination combining adventure, sports, relaxation, as well as history and culture.”
One out of every 2 visitors from Germany to Turkey flew with SunExpress
In 2023, SunExpress transported more than 50% of visitors traveling from Germany to Turkey. Turkey hosted 6.2 million visitors from Germany last year, making Germany the second-largest market for Turkish tourism.
Fleet to double in size within ten years
SunExpress placed its largest aircraft order in the company’s history last year. Currently operating with 77 Boeing 737 aircraft, the airline plans to increase its fleet to 166 aircraft by 2035. Kownatzki said, “We have once again proven to be a significant stakeholder in tourism with our flights between Turkey and Europe. The planned growth is a testament to our commitment to Turkish tourism.”
