Turkish Airlines Expands Network with New Istanbul-Timișoara Route
Turkish Airlines (THY) has inaugurated its first direct flight from Istanbul to Timișoara, Romania, marking the fourth destination in the country after Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Constanța. This new route further solidifies THY’s position as the airline flying to the most countries worldwide.
Inaugural Flight and Ceremony
The inaugural flight, TK 1013, departed from Istanbul Airport at 09:45 on April 1, 2026, and arrived at Timișoara Traian Vuia International Airport after a 1 hour and 45-minute journey. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the airport, attended by Turkish and Romanian officials.
Among the dignitaries present were Bilal Ekşi, CEO of Turkish Airlines; Özgür Kıvanç Altan, Turkey’s Ambassador to Bucharest; Alfred Robert Simonis, Governor of Timișoara; Lucian Taropa, General Manager of Timișoara Airport; Ruben Latcau, Deputy Mayor of Timișoara; and Sorin Grindeanu, Speaker of the Romanian Chamber of Deputies.
Strengthening Air Links and Global Connectivity
In a statement to journalists regarding the route’s opening, Bilal Ekşi highlighted Timișoara’s rich history, beauty, and cultural heritage. He announced that five flights per week are planned for the city, expressing optimism for the route’s success. “We are strengthening the air bridge between Romania and Turkey significantly. THY currently flies to the most countries in the world. We can say that THY connects the world,” Ekşi stated.
Ekşi noted that Turkish Airlines has been operating flights to Romania since 1993. “We are proud to connect every corner of the world with our ‘airline flying to the most countries in the world’ title, certified by Guinness World Records. With a fleet of more than 530 aircraft, we fly to 133 countries. We host millions of guests every year. Timișoara has become the 358th point in our flight network. Now, our guests departing from Timișoara will be able to easily reach all over the world with the largest flight network. From the moment you board our planes, our cabin crew will welcome you with a smile. Your journey will be pleasant with our award-winning travel experience developed inspired by our culture. We will accompany you on your adventure to discover the world. I believe that we will achieve new successes with our new route. Now, we invite the world to discover Timișoara with THY.”
Ambassador Altan emphasized the incredible potential for cooperation between Turkey and Romania. “We are NATO allies, major trade partners, and neighbors across the Black Sea, but we also see Romanians as our brothers and want to strengthen all ties between us over the years. THY also brings people and different worlds together,” he added.
Impact on Regional Connectivity
The new Istanbul-Timișoara route, with its five weekly frequencies, will increase Turkish Airlines’ total weekly flights to Romania to 47. This expansion is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between Turkey and Romania, providing greater convenience for travelers and businesses alike. The addition of Timișoara to THY’s extensive network underscores the airline’s commitment to global connectivity and its role in fostering international relations.
Source: trthaber.com
