SunExpress, a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines, is entering the summer 2025 season with strong demand. According to CEO Max Kownatzki, pre-bookings have increased by 20% compared to last year. The airline is particularly focused on expanding flights to the Aegean and Anatolia regions.
Record Revenue and Passenger Numbers
In 2024, SunExpress achieved one of the most successful results in its history, generating €2.2 billion in revenue and reaching 15 million passengers. Despite rising costs and operational challenges, the airline plans to continue expanding its network in 2025.
Fleet and Route Expansion
During the peak season, SunExpress will increase its fleet by seven aircraft compared to last year, operating a total of 85 aircraft. Its expanding network now offers 237 connections to 92 destinations in 35 countries. Notably, flights to Antalya from the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) are being significantly increased, with seven daily flights from Düsseldorf and six from Cologne. New destinations include Erzurum, Bursa, and Kayseri.
New Partnerships and Codeshare Agreements
SunExpress is also strengthening its partnerships. As part of its collaboration with Air Cairo, 120 weekly flights to Egypt are being marketed, while Electra Airways is providing new connections to Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. Additionally, discussions for a codeshare agreement with Eurowings are ongoing.
Strategic Measures Against Economic Challenges
Despite its success, SunExpress anticipates economic challenges in 2025. Rising airport fees and compensation payments may impact the airline’s financial balance. To prevent capacity bottlenecks caused by aircraft delivery delays, lease agreements have been extended.
Long-Term Growth Plans
The airline aims to expand its fleet to 166 aircraft by 2035. Additionally, it plans to further grow its ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations. Currently, SunExpress is operating four aircraft on behalf of South African Airways and nine for AJet during the 2024/2025 winter season.
With increasing demand and strategic partnerships, SunExpress continues its growth while maintaining its competitive edge in the aviation industry.
