Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport continues to expand its flight network in line with its growth targets. Pegasus Airlines’ direct flights between Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) and Bilbao (BIO) have started as of today (1 December 2025). Bilbao has become Sabiha Gökçen’s fourth connection point in Spain after Barcelona, Madrid and Seville.
ISG, Opening New Doors from the Meeting Point of Asia and Europe
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG) has added another new route to its network in line with its goal of increasing destination diversity in Europe. With the start of the 2025 winter season, the direct flights between Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen and Bilbao, which began today, have expanded the travel options between Türkiye and Northern Spain. Flights on the SAW–BIO route will be operated four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday mornings.
The first aircraft of the new route was seen off to Bilbao this morning with a ceremony held at the terminal. Passengers were welcomed with Turkish delight at the Gate area and took plenty of souvenir photos in the area set up before boarding.
Bilbao, the cultural, artistic and gastronomic centre of the Basque Region, became the last new route launched from SAW by Pegasus Airlines in 2025.
ISG Opened a Total of 25 Routes in 2025
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (ISG) International Airport expanded its flight network by launching 14 new international routes and 1 new domestic route in addition to its existing destinations, achieving a total of 23 international and 2 domestic openings, amounting to 25 new routes in 2025.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport today connects Istanbul with a total of 153 destinations, including 39 domestic and 114 international routes across 54 countries.
Passengers arriving directly or via connection to Sabiha Gökçen can reach the dynamic and popular city of the Basque region with ease and comfort thanks to Bilbao Airport’s (BIO) proximity to the city centre and the services it offers.
The Favourite City of Art Enthusiasts: Bilbao
Bilbao, the heart of Spain’s northern Basque Region and a favourite among art lovers, stands out with its architectural landmarks and the world-famous Guggenheim Museum located along the Nervión River. Transformed by the influence of modern art through the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao has become an inspiring city with a contemporary identity while still preserving its historical character.
With its robust industrial, commercial, port and university infrastructure, the region offers a sustainable demand potential throughout the year and appeals to a wide audience. Covering important centres such as Vitoria-Gasteiz and Pamplona along with Bilbao, this region supports economic and cultural dynamism.
Known for its rich Basque cuisine, the city further enhances its touristic appeal with its internationally recognised gastronomic heritage, Michelin-starred restaurants and local delicacies such as those found in San Sebastián, the city that lends its name to the world-famous dessert, making it a strong attraction for international visitors.
Bilbao, which is Sabiha Gökçen’s fourth destination in Spain after Barcelona, Madrid and Seville, is expected to strengthen the touristic and commercial ties between Türkiye and Spain.
