Cork Airport Announces Direct Flights to Turkey’s Izmir

Cork Airport is expanding its horizons with exciting news for sunseekers! Starting next summer, travellers will have the opportunity to fly directly to Izmir, Turkey’s vibrant third-largest city, located on the stunning Aegean coast.

This twice-weekly service, operated by SunExpress, a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airways, will operate from May to October 2025, departing Wednesdays and Saturdays. Cork Airport highlighted “strong market demand” for this route, driven by Izmir’s popularity as a year-round sun destination and its proximity to renowned resorts like Kusadasi and Çeşme.

Discover Izmir’s Rich History and Beauty

Izmir offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Beyond its sunny beaches, the city boasts numerous historical attractions, including:

• Agora: An open-air museum showcasing the remnants of the ancient Greek city of Smyrna.
• Kadifekale: A hilltop castle dating back to the 3rd century BC.
• Ephesus: A UNESCO World Heritage site, just an hour away from Izmir.

Boosting Connectivity and Regional Growth

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, James Lawless, welcomed the new service, stating that it would provide “increased options for travellers from Cork and the wider region to fly directly to their chosen holiday destinations.” He emphasized Cork Airport’s growth and its role in expanding connectivity beyond Dublin.

“Cork Airport is going from strength to strength,” said Mr. Lawless. “This is further evidence that demand exists for new services to and from our regional airports. I wholeheartedly believe there is latent demand for further options to fly from airports aside from Dublin airport…and I am working to expand the connectivity to the regions.”

Tara Finn, Cork Airport’s Head of Aviation Business Development and Communications, echoed this sentiment, calling the Izmir route “undoubtedly a highlight of our extensive range of holiday routes next summer.”

Cork Airport Managing Director Niall McCarthy highlighted the significance of the new service, stating that it represents the ninth scheduled carrier to operate out of Cork Airport. “It is really fantastic to see a new route, to a new country, operated by a new airline added to our schedule next year,” he said.

Ready for Your Turkish Adventure?

Start planning your unforgettable trip to Izmir! With its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, this Turkish gem awaits your exploration.