# SunExpress expands route network 2026

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/sunexpress-expands-route-network-2026
> Updated: 2026-08-01T11:35:29.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

In July 2026, SunExpress began operating direct flights between Ankara and Rotterdam, marking the airline's entry into a new European connection. A few weeks later, in August, the carrier launched a second new route, linking Izmir in Turkey with Almaty in Kazakhstan. The Izmir‑Almaty service, operated by a Boeing 737‑800, runs twice weekly and is supported by TAV Airports Group, which highlighted its potential to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two countries. Together, the two launches illustrate SunExpress's broader strategy of expanding its network across Europe and Central Asia during 2026.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-01: SunExpress launches direct Izmir‑Almaty flights

SunExpress started a twice‑weekly direct Izmir‑Almaty route, inaugural flight carrying 177 passengers, with TAV Airports Group operating both airports and expecting millions of travelers by 2026.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sunexpress-launches-direct-izmiralmaty-flights

### 2026-07-13: SunExpress launches direct Ankara‑Rotterdam flights from July 15

SunExpress will begin weekly direct Ankara‑Rotterdam flights on 15 July 2026, expanding its summer schedule to 14 nonstop international destinations from Turkey’s capital.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sunexpress-launches-direct-ankararotterdam-flights-from-july-15

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Cite as: SunExpress expands route network 2026. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/sunexpress-expands-route-network-2026