Significant Growth in UK Air Travel to Turkey in 2024

In 2024, the United Kingdom experienced a notable increase in air travel to Turkey, with a 15% rise compared to the previous year, totaling over 10.8 million trips. This surge reflects Turkey's growing appeal among British travelers.

Overall Increase in UK Outbound Air Travel

According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority, from January to December 2024, outbound air travel from the UK increased by 7.4%, surpassing 237 million trips. Spain remained the top destination, accounting for 43.2 million of these journeys. Following Spain, the United States, Italy, France, and the Netherlands were also popular choices among UK travelers.

Turkey's Position Among Preferred Destinations

Turkey secured a significant share of the UK outbound travel market, with over 10.8 million trips, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores Turkey's rising popularity among British tourists.

Performance of Key Turkish Destinations

• Istanbul: The city maintained a steady influx of British travelers, with a 15% increase in visits. Istanbul's share of UK travelers to Turkey remained stable at 34%.

• Antalya: This destination experienced a significant uptick, with a 17% increase in British visitors. Antalya's share of UK travelers to Turkey rose to 31%.

• Muğla: Despite a 9.3% growth in British visitors, Muğla's share of UK travelers to Turkey decreased slightly by 2 percentage points, accounting for 29% of the total UK arrivals to Turkey.

Factors Contributing to Turkey's Popularity

Several elements have contributed to the increased interest of British travelers in Turkey:

• Competitive Pricing: Turkey offers affordable travel options, making it an attractive destination for cost-conscious travelers.

• Diverse Attractions: From the historic sites of Istanbul to the pristine beaches of Antalya and the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey provides a wide range of experiences.

• Improved Connectivity: Enhanced flight options and increased frequencies between the UK and Turkey have made travel more convenient.

Outlook for 2025

Looking ahead, Turkey aims to further strengthen its position in the UK market by promoting lesser-known destinations and investing in tourism infrastructure. The focus will be on sustainable tourism practices to ensure long-term growth and the preservation of cultural and natural assets.

In summary, 2024 marked a year of significant growth in air travel from the UK to Turkey, with notable increases in key destinations. As Turkey continues to enhance its tourism offerings and infrastructure, it is well-positioned to attract even more British travelers in the coming years.