SunExpress will begin operating flights to Antalya at the end of next month

A new airline is set to take off from East Midlands Airport this year, giving holidaymakers in the region a direct route to one of Türkiye’s most popular sunshine destinations.

SunExpress will begin operating flights to Antalya at the end of next month, initially running twice a week. During the peak summer season, services are expected to increase to up to three flights weekly, continuing through to October.

Antalya, on Türkiye’s south-west coast, is known for its long sandy beaches, warm Mediterranean waters and all-inclusive resorts. It’s a firm favourite with British travellers looking for reliable sunshine, family-friendly hotels and easy access to historical sites and mountain scenery.

Booking is already open for 2026, giving passengers the chance to plan ahead. SunExpress is a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines and has seen strong growth across Europe in recent years. After expanding its presence in Germany, the airline is now broadening its UK footprint and is set to operate from 14 airports across the UK and Ireland by next summer.

The new route adds to East Midlands Airport’s growing list of leisure destinations and offers travellers across the Midlands a more convenient alternative to flying from larger airports further afield.

With Türkiye continuing to rank highly for value and warm-weather escapes, the launch of direct Antalya flights is likely to be welcomed by families, couples and groups already planning their 2026 summer holidays.