EasyApartAlanya
22 Jan 2026
Surge in UK and Ireland Flights Sets Stage for Record 2026 Season in Antalya
Overview
Antalya’s position as a premier Mediterranean hub for British and Irish travelers has reached new heights. According to recent data from SunExpress (the joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines), the airline carried over 1.6 million passengers from the UK and Ireland last year, marking a significant 21% increase compared to 2024. This surge underscores the growing demand for Antalya as both a holiday destination and a prime real estate market for Northern Europeans.
Record-Breaking Winter Demand
The traditional "off-season" is becoming a thing of the past. During the recent holiday period (December 20 to January 4), nearly 30,000 travelers flew from the UK and Ireland to the Turkish Riviera. This represents a 24% jump from the previous winter, proving that Antalya is now a year-round destination for those looking to escape the colder climates.
New Direct Routes for 2026
To meet this booming demand, SunExpress is aggressively expanding its flight network. For the upcoming 2026 season, travelers can look forward to several new connections:
New Gateways: Direct flights will launch from East Midlands (UK) and Cork (Ireland) directly to Antalya.
Expanded Network: Additional services are being added from London Gatwick and Manchester to nearby Bodrum, further increasing accessibility to the coast.
Frequency: Major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham will see up to three flights per day during the peak summer months.
What This Means for Property Owners in Alanya
For real estate investors in the Alanya region, this aviation growth is excellent news. Increased flight frequency directly correlates with higher occupancy rates for rental properties and higher property values.
Ease of Access: More direct flights make it easier for owners and their guests to reach Alanya via Antalya Airport.
Rental Potential: A 21% increase in passengers means a significantly larger pool of potential short-term tenants.
Market Confidence: Major airlines investing in new routes is a strong indicator of long-term economic stability and tourism growth for the region.
The Easy Apart Alanya Perspective
At Easy Apart Alanya, we see this expansion as a clear signal that 2026 will be a milestone year for the local market. With the ongoing expansion of Antalya Airport (set to double its capacity by 2026), the infrastructure is now matching the world-class quality of our properties.
