Low-cost Turkish airline Pegasus has made its inaugural flight from Bristol Airport to Turkey.
The new, direct route from the South West of England flies to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport – a hub airport with more than 150 destinations within Turkey and beyond.
Rupert Lawrie, commercial director at Bristol Airport, said Pegasus was a "fantastic addition" to Bristol Airport and would provide "even more opportunities" for people to explore Turkey and beyond.
“No longer do you need to travel to London to reach exotic destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Morocco and Doha, saving you time and additional pressure by flying from Bristol Airport," he said.
"Your trip will start sooner when you fly from Bristol. It’s also good news for inbound tourism; for local communities who want to connect with family and friends; and for businesses in the South West and South Wales who have overseas interests."
Pegasus will run a three-times weekly service from Bristol to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport.
Kathryn Davis, chief executive of Visit West, said: “We are delighted to welcome the first visitors on board the Pegasus Airlines flight from Istanbul Gökçen International Airport into Bristol Airport.
“The new flight route opens up a wealth of connectivity, making it easier for visitors to fly into the West of England from Turkey, Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC), Africa and beyond.
“Pegasus Airlines’ new year-round service will increase opportunities for visitors to travel here throughout the year and support our Local Visitor Economy, by drawing business to hotels, attractions and high streets in Bristol, Bath and the wider West of England region.”
Pegasus was stablished in 1990 and adopted a low-cost airline business model after being acquired by ESAS Holding in 2005.
The carrier mainly operates through its primary hub at Istanbul, offering connections to the Middle East and North Africa, and Central Asia.
Pegasus flights from Bristol to Istanbul start from £70 one-way including taxes.
