EasyJet Suspends Istanbul Flights, Adds Four New Routes Across Europe
British low-cost carrier EasyJet has announced a strategic overhaul of its 2026 flight program, discontinuing its Istanbul routes while expanding its European network with four new destinations.
Starting in March 2026, EasyJet will cease operations from Bristol and Manchester to Istanbul Airport, citing lower-than-expected demand and intense competition from Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. The airline currently operates three weekly flights to Istanbul, which will end as part of this shift.
In place of the Istanbul routes, EasyJet will launch four new European connections aimed at boosting leisure travel and city breaks:
- Birmingham to Rome Fiumicino: Four weekly flights beginning March 5, 2026
- Edinburgh to Ljubljana: Twice-weekly service starting April 4, 2026
- Bristol to Reus (Spain): Flights on Thursdays and Sundays from June 25, 2026
- Bristol to Thessaloniki (Greece): Flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays from June 27, 2026
This move reflects EasyJet’s strategic pivot toward high-demand short-haul destinations, particularly in the Mediterranean and cultural capitals of Europe. By reallocating resources to leisure-focused routes, the airline aims to strengthen its position in the competitive European holiday market.
Despite withdrawing from Istanbul, EasyJet remains committed to connecting UK travelers with vibrant cities and coastal escapes across the continent.
