Sabiha Gökçen Expands Its European Network with the Paris Orly Route
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG) has established a new partnership as part of its strategy to strengthen European connections and diversify its airline network. Transavia France, the low-cost carrier of the Air France-KLM Group, has launched daily flights on the Paris–Istanbul route. The aircraft arriving from Paris today was welcomed with a traditional water salute on the apron.
The Shortest Route Between the Hearts of Paris and Istanbul
With its rapidly increasing international flight traffic, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (ISG) ranks among the fastest-growing airports in Europe. The airport has expanded its European access network by adding another strategic route. Operating since 2007, Transavia France will now operate daily reciprocal flights between Paris, the capital and largest city of France, and Sabiha Gökçen. With this new partnership, Transavia France expands its destination network while strengthening and diversifying Turkey’s and Istanbul’s connectivity with Europe.
Connecting a total of 150 destinations — 39 domestic and 111 international — across 53 countries, ISG reinforces its pioneering role in the industry as one of Istanbul’s and Turkey’s main “entry” and “transfer” hubs.
Scheduled services, launched on 26 October 2025, will operate daily in both directions. This new route provides an economical travel option between Orly Airport — the closest airport to the centre of Paris — and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen, known as “The City Airport” for its proximity to the heart of Istanbul.
The Aircraft from Paris Welcomed with a Water Salute
Today’s Transavia France Paris–Istanbul flight was greeted on the apron with a water salute performed by HEAŞ Airport Authority’s Rescue and Firefighting (RFF) teams. The cockpit and cabin crews were welcomed with flowers, while passengers arriving from Paris were treated to chocolates.
A cake-cutting ceremony was also held as part of the celebration. The Transavia France cabin crew, ISG officials, and passengers took plenty of commemorative photos, highlighting the synergy of the collaboration between the two institutions.
Sustainable Transport Network Targeted with VFR Potential
The new Paris (ORY)–Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) route aims to strengthen tourism and trade between France and Turkey, creating a more convenient and accessible connection between the two countries. The route is expected to benefit from the strong VFR (Visiting Friends & Relatives) traffic potential, as a large Turkish community resides in Paris and its surroundings, ensuring sustainable load factors throughout the year.
A More Accessible Connection Between Two of the World’s Most Beautiful Cities
With its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, Istanbul — one of the world’s most stunning cities — is now connected to Paris, the world’s most romantic city, through more affordable and convenient travel options.
Among the most visited cities in Europe, Paris attracts over 50 million visitors each year with its historical charm and cultural richness. Many of its iconic landmarks are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making Paris an open-air museum in its own right.
Known as the city of love and art, Paris captivates visitors not only with the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and elegant cafés, but also with its romantic atmosphere, deep-rooted culinary traditions, and its status as a global fashion capital.
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