Travel
Busan-Istanbul route established with direct flights to launch next year
haps magazine korea
October 31, 2024
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The government recently announced the establishment of a new Busan-Istanbul route following successful aviation talks with Turkiye.
This addition, expected to operate from Gimhae Airport, marks the culmination of Busan’s persistent requests to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to create direct international routes from local airports to Istanbul.
The Ministry confirmed on October 28 that an agreement was reached during the International Civil Aviation Negotiation (ICAN) forum held in Malaysia, allowing three weekly flights between Korea’s regional airports and Istanbul. ICAN, facilitated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), provides a platform for international aviation agreements among member nations.
Currently, passenger traffic on the Korea-Turkey route is set at 11 flights per week for each country, with Korean Air, Asiana, and Turkish Airlines operating the Incheon-Istanbul route. The high demand has driven an average load factor exceeding 85%, indicating a strong need for additional routes.
The Ministry noted, “While currently only the Incheon-Istanbul route is available, this new arrangement for three weekly flights from regional airports means direct travel to Istanbul from Busan and other areas will soon be possible.”
Busan City officials expressed optimism, highlighting Turkish Airlines’ interest in expanding to Gimhae Airport.
The city anticipates that, with Turkish Airlines’ support, the Busan-Istanbul route could be launched as early as next year, potentially becoming the longest international route from Gimhae Airport.
This new route is expected to strengthen regional connectivity and boost Busan’s accessibility to international destinations.