Northern Cyprus signs a transformative air transport agreement with Turkish Airlines and AJet, bringing daily flights, affordable ticket pricing, and enhanced regional connectivity.
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel Announces Landmark Air Transport Deal with Turkish Airlines & AJet
In a significant step toward improving transportation and international access, Prime Minister Ünal Üstel announced that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will sign a new cooperation agreement with Turkish Airlines and AJet. The signing is set for tomorrow, and one of the aircraft included in the agreement is scheduled to arrive at Ercan Airport at 08:30, signaling the launch of a new era in air travel for the TRNC.
This development is part of the broader Island Cyprus Project, a strategic initiative designed to strengthen the TRNC’s ties with Türkiye and enhance accessibility for its citizens and visitors.
“We are an island nation—our only connection to the world is by air or sea, and air transport is vital,” Üstel said in a written statement, highlighting the strategic necessity of reliable air links.
Daily Flights to Major Turkish Cities Begin
Under the agreement, daily shuttle flights will connect the TRNC with major cities across Türkiye, significantly improving mobility for business travelers, students, tourists, and citizens alike. This marks a major improvement from current limitations, where irregular flights and high prices have long posed challenges for residents.
By introducing regular, dependable connections, the TRNC is strengthening economic, educational, and cultural ties with Türkiye while expanding its accessibility to international travelers via Turkish hubs.
Regulating Ticket Prices: Affordability Comes First
A key component of the new agreement is that the TRNC government will now have a role in setting both minimum and maximum ticket prices. This measure is aimed at preventing price hikes and ensuring that air travel remains within reach for the average citizen.
“A high number of flights or seat capacity alone doesn’t solve the problem—ticket prices must also be reasonable,” Üstel emphasized.
The Prime Minister recalled the public’s frustration after the closure of Turkish Cypriot Airlines, which led to steep ticket costs and limited travel options. This agreement, he stressed, is a direct response to those concerns and fulfills a long-standing promise to the people.
Supporting Tourism and Education: TRNC’s Economic Backbone
Üstel noted that tourism and higher education continue to be the two main pillars of the TRNC economy, and air transportation is critical to both sectors. He referenced the recent opening of the modernized Ercan Airport terminal, stating that this new agreement aligns with the TRNC’s goal of reaching 6 million passengers per year by 2025.
Easier access means more students choosing Northern Cyprus for their studies, and more tourists visiting its beaches, history, and culture, creating a ripple effect of growth across the island.
“We Are Keeping Our Promise to the People”
Concluding his statement, Prime Minister Üstel reaffirmed that this aviation deal represents a commitment fulfilled:
“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.”
As the TRNC positions itself for a more connected, accessible, and prosperous future, this agreement signals not only better travel options—but also stronger international partnerships and economic resilience.