Aviation breakthrough for the TRNC: AdaKıbrıs launches capped fares on London–Ercan and Istanbul–Ercan flights via Turkish Airlines and AJet. A major step in boosting tourism and reconnecting Turkish Cypriots abroad.
A New Era for Turkish Cypriot Travel: AdaKıbrıs Initiative Launches Affordable Flights to Northern Cyprus
A long-awaited transformation in Turkish Cypriot air travel is finally here. The AdaKıbrıs initiative, in partnership with Turkish Airlines (THY) and AJet, has officially launched a new air service offering affordable, capped-price flights to and from Northern Cyprus—marking what leaders are calling a historic turning point for the island’s tourism and diaspora.
Set to officially launch in London on 26 July, the program offers London–Ercan round trips for just €250, and Istanbul–Ercan flights capped at 6,000 TL (approximately €127). These rates are expected to make a major impact on both leisure and family travel, especially for the Turkish Cypriot diaspora in the UK.
A Boost for Tourism, Economy, and Connection
Despite the continued UK government policy prohibiting direct flights to Ercan, travelers on the London–Ercan route will still stop over in Istanbul. However, the real breakthrough lies in the capped pricing—removing the financial barrier that has long made travel to the TRNC difficult and expensive.
“This is a historic step,” said TRNC President Ersin Tatar. “Direct flights, trade, and contact are our official policy. Today strengthens our competitiveness in tourism and brings us closer to the world.”
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel also celebrated the initiative, adding:
“From now on, Turkish Cypriots will reach their homeland more easily. We are proud to turn a long-awaited dream into reality.”
More Than Flights: A National Symbol in the Skies
The AdaKıbrıs brand represents more than just a new airline service—it’s a symbol of unity, youth empowerment, and national visibility.
“With the AdaKıbrıs brand, we are bringing brotherhood to the skies,” said THY Chairman Ahmet Bolat. “Our aircraft will glide through international skies as cultural ambassadors.”
One particularly exciting element of this launch is the training and hiring of 60 young Turkish Cypriots as cabin crew. These youth are not only embarking on careers in aviation—they are representing the TRNC globally, with pride and professionalism.
The Road to Recognition Continues
Although direct flights from the UK remain restricted, this initiative shows how strategic partnerships and public-private cooperation can bring meaningful progress even in the face of political obstacles.
The price regulation breakthrough is already creating buzz across diaspora communities and tourism circles alike, especially ahead of the busy travel season.
💬 Clarification: The €250 fare for London (Stansted) to Ercan still includes a layover in Istanbul. The headline news is the introduction of capped ticket prices, not direct routes—but the fight for direct flights continues.
What Comes Next?
As AdaKıbrıs expands, travelers can expect:
- Daily flights between Türkiye and Ercan
- Improved connectivity for tourism and student mobility
- Consistent pricing that protects travelers from seasonal spikes
- Greater visibility for Northern Cyprus in global aviation
With the new Ercan Airport terminal now operational and passenger numbers projected to rise, this initiative may be the missing link between affordability, access, and sustainable tourism growth for the TRNC.