UK travelers seeking sun, sea, and culture will soon have an exciting new route to explore. Starting summer 2026, SunExpress, the joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, will launch a new direct flight service from Manchester Airport to Bodrum, Turkey—one of the Aegean coast’s most glamorous and historically rich destinations.
This strategic expansion strengthens the carrier’s footprint in Northern England and enhances UK–Turkey connectivity just in time for peak holiday demand. The twice-weekly service will be operated by modern Boeing 737 aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Opening a New Chapter in Mediterranean Travel
The launch of direct Manchester–Bodrum flights is a significant milestone for SunExpress and UK leisure travelers alike. Known for its picturesque turquoise bays, luxurious beach resorts, ancient ruins, and vibrant nightlife, Bodrum has emerged as one of Turkey’s most desirable destinations for both short getaways and extended vacations.
The new service responds to a growing demand among British travelers for flexible, affordable, and direct access to Mediterranean destinations. With nonstop flights from Manchester, travelers across Northern England can now reach Bodrum more easily than ever before—cutting out long layovers and saving valuable travel time.
Expanding SunExpress’ UK Network
With this latest addition, SunExpress continues to grow its UK operations, building on a strong foundation of service out of Manchester. The airline already runs up to 43 weekly flights from Manchester to popular Turkish locations such as Antalya, Izmir, and Dalaman. The Bodrum launch positions SunExpress as a key player for UK-Turkey tourism and aligns with its broader strategy of increasing seasonal frequency and leisure destination reach.
SunExpress offers three distinct fare bundles—SunEco, SunClassic, and SunPremium—allowing passengers to tailor their flight experience to match budget, comfort, and flexibility preferences. Travelers can customize their journey with add-ons like seat selection, priority check-in, extra baggage, and flexible rebooking options, making it a preferred choice for families, solo travelers, and holidaymakers alike.
Strengthening Manchester Airport’s International Profile
The new service also plays an important role in Manchester Airport’s international growth strategy, providing expanded access to high-demand holiday destinations. As the UK’s third-busiest airport and a major international gateway outside of London, Manchester continues to attract investment from carriers keen to capitalize on the region’s strong outbound leisure market.
Airport officials have praised the SunExpress announcement as a significant win for local tourism, highlighting the benefits for both outbound UK travelers and inbound Turkish visitors. The direct connection is expected to stimulate tourism flows in both directions, enhance cultural exchange, and generate economic impact through increased travel spending.
Bodrum: Turkey’s Aegean Gem
Often referred to as the “St. Tropez of Turkey,” Bodrum combines luxury with authenticity. Located in Muğla Province on the southwest coast of Turkey, the town blends ancient heritage with modern allure. Attractions include:
- The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
- The Castle of St. Peter, a medieval fortress with panoramic views of the harbor
- The bustling Bodrum Marina, lined with upscale cafes and boutiques
- Traditional Turkish markets offering local crafts, textiles, and delicacies
Beyond Bodrum’s core, travelers can easily visit neighboring highlights such as Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Kusadasi, making it an excellent base for cultural and coastal exploration.
A Strategic Move for Post-Pandemic Travel Recovery
With summer tourism demand rebounding strongly, the timing of this route could not be better. British travelers are increasingly looking for nonstop flights to Mediterranean destinations that combine value, sunshine, and authentic local experiences. The Manchester–Bodrum route offers all of these, positioning SunExpress for success as it enters the 2026 high season.
SunExpress is also known for its on-time performance, reliability, and low-cost premium model, making it well-suited to deliver consistent service on this important route. The twice-weekly schedule allows for flexible trip planning, whether travelers are aiming for a week-long beach escape or a quick four-day getaway.
Booking Details and Future Outlook
The Manchester–Bodrum route will begin in summer 2026, with official schedules and ticket sales expected to open by the end of 2025. Travelers will be able to book directly via the SunExpress website, mobile app, or through UK-based travel agents and tour operators.
Fares will be competitively priced, with early bird deals likely to appeal to families booking school holidays and couples seeking romantic summer getaways.
As part of SunExpress’ broader mission to strengthen Mediterranean access from Europe, this new route highlights Turkey’s continued rise as a top holiday destination for UK travelers, with Bodrum poised to join the ranks of Europe’s most in-demand summer hotspots.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for UK–Turkey Tourism
The introduction of direct flights from Manchester to Bodrum is a transformational development for British travelers eager to explore the Turkish Riviera. With SunExpress’ reliable service, customizable fares, and modern fleet, this new route offers a hassle-free and enriching travel option just in time for the peak 2026 summer season.
As international air connectivity improves and leisure travel surges, both Manchester and Bodrum stand to benefit from increased tourism flows, stronger economic ties, and deeper cultural engagement. For sun seekers and adventure lovers alike, the Mediterranean just got a little closer.
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