Turkish authorities have officially announced the precise launch date for direct flights between Istanbul and Yerevan, to be operated by their national carrier.
Turkish Airlines to Connect Istanbul and Yerevan
“Our national carrier THY (Turkish Airlines) will begin operating daily flights on the Istanbul-Yerevan-Istanbul route,” stated Ambassador Serdar Kilic, Turkey’s special representative for the normalization of relations with Armenia, in a post on X.
Ambassador Kilic further specified that these direct flights are scheduled to commence on March 11, 2026. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Turkey and Armenia, as direct air links are often seen as a crucial component of fostering bilateral ties and facilitating travel and trade.
Impact on Regional Connectivity
The introduction of daily direct flights by a major airline like Turkish Airlines is expected to have a considerable impact on regional connectivity. For travelers, it will offer a more convenient and efficient option for reaching Yerevan from Istanbul and vice versa, bypassing the need for connecting flights through other cities.
This new route is anticipated to boost tourism and business exchanges between the two countries. Improved accessibility could lead to an increase in visitor numbers to both Istanbul and Yerevan, potentially stimulating local economies and fostering greater cultural understanding.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
The decision to launch direct flights comes amid diplomatic efforts aimed at normalizing relations between Turkey and Armenia. These efforts have included various discussions and initiatives, with the resumption of direct air travel being a tangible outcome of these diplomatic engagements.
The daily frequency of the flights underscores the commitment to establishing a robust and reliable air bridge between the two capitals. This move is generally viewed as a positive indicator for future cooperation and could pave the way for further advancements in diplomatic and economic relations.
The announcement has been met with interest from observers monitoring the normalization process. The practical implications of these flights, such as their effect on passenger traffic and cargo movement, will be closely watched once operations begin in 2026.
