Prime Minister Ünal Üstel reveals a game-changing agreement with Turkish Airlines and AJet, introducing daily shuttle flights and regulated ticket pricing to make air travel more accessible in the TRNC.
Northern Cyprus Takes Flight: New Aviation Deal with Turkish Airlines & AJet to Transform Connectivity
In a landmark move for transportation and economic growth, Prime Minister Ünal Üstel has announced that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will sign a new cooperation agreement with Turkish Airlines and AJet. The agreement, which will be finalized tomorrow, represents a major leap forward for air travel in Northern Cyprus—one that promises increased connectivity, affordable fares, and greater accessibility for citizens and visitors alike.
“We are an island nation—our only connection to the world is by air or sea, and air transport is vital,” Üstel emphasized in a written statement.
This agreement is part of the broader Island Cyprus Project, aimed at boosting the TRNC’s global access and supporting its core industries: tourism and higher education.
Daily Flights, Better Access
One of the immediate outcomes of the agreement is the launch of daily shuttle flights from Northern Cyprus to major Turkish cities. An aircraft involved in the new service is set to land at Ercan Airport at 08:30 tomorrow morning, symbolizing the official start of a new era in the TRNC’s air transport sector.
The initiative is seen as a response to years of high airfare and limited options following the closure of Turkish Cypriot Airlines. Üstel pointed out that increased flight frequency or seat availability alone doesn’t resolve the issue unless pricing becomes fairer.
“A high number of flights or seat capacity alone doesn’t solve the problem—prices must also be reasonable,” he noted.
Ticket Prices Now Under TRNC Control
Perhaps the most notable element of the agreement is that the TRNC will now have a say in determining the lower and upper limits of ticket prices for these flights. This long-awaited measure is intended to make air travel more affordable for the public and prevent monopolistic pricing.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the economic pressure many citizens have faced in recent years due to rising ticket prices. This deal, he says, is designed to restore balance and put the interests of the public first.
Supporting Tourism and Education
Air transport isn’t just about convenience—it’s critical for the TRNC’s economic lifelines: tourism and international education. Üstel underlined that these two sectors form the backbone of the island’s economy, and improving air access is essential to both.
He also referenced the recent opening of the new Ercan Airport terminal, and shared the administration’s ambitious goal of reaching 6 million passengers annually by 2025.
“We Are Keeping Our Promise”
Prime Minister Üstel concluded his announcement by reaffirming his government’s commitment to progress and transparency.
“This move will strengthen connections to major Turkish airports and open us to the world. Our citizens will benefit from more accessible and affordable flights. No one should doubt the significance of this step.”
The agreement not only delivers on campaign promises, but also lays the foundation for long-term economic growth, stronger bilateral ties with Türkiye, and a more connected future for the TRNC. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io