Turkish Airlines, AJet Sign Tourism Deal with TRNC to Enhance Travel Links
TRNC Signs Tourism Agreement with Turkish Airlines and AJet to Expand Air Access and Cut Travel Costs
July 7, 2025 – Lefkoşa — The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has formalized a new agreement with Turkish Airlines and its budget airline AJet in a strategic move aimed at making air travel to the island more accessible and affordable.
The protocol, signed at the presidential office in Lefkoşa, was witnessed by TRNC President Ersin Tatar, alongside Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and Turkish Airlines Chairman Ahmet Bolat.
The initiative sets a clear goal: to stabilize ticket prices, lower costs for travelers, and boost the island’s appeal as a tourist destination. As part of the plan, AJet will operate shuttle flights connecting Ercan Airport with major cities across Türkiye — a move expected to significantly improve connectivity and visitor numbers.
“These steps will make our tourism sector more competitive,” President Tatar stated during the ceremony, emphasizing the broader economic impact of the agreement.
Affordable Travel
Under the agreement, ticket prices for routes between Türkiye and the TRNC will be capped at $150 (around 6,000 Turkish lira), easing the financial burden for both domestic and international travelers.
Additionally, starting after a promotional launch event in London on July 26, the round-trip fare between London Stansted and Ercan Airport will be set at $293 (€250), a competitive rate aimed at attracting visitors from Europe.
Boosting Tourism and Visibility
The new protocol builds on the TRNC’s broader push to position itself as a year-round tourist destination. Officials hope the improved airline access will encourage more travel from both Türkiye and key international markets, giving the tourism industry — a cornerstone of the TRNC economy — a needed lift.
The deal is also aligned with Türkiye’s recent efforts to promote TRNC tourism globally, including the “Island Cyprus” campaign launched earlier this year.
