Direct Cairo-Istanbul flights launched between Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Nesma Airlines are expected to bring new momentum to air traffic between Türkiye and Egypt.
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (ISG) has signed an important partnership with Egypt-based Nesma Airlines as part of its strategy to expand its global flight network. As of May 22, 2026, Nesma Airlines has officially started reciprocal direct flights between Cairo and Istanbul. With the new route, it is aimed to create mobility in many areas, especially tourism and trade, between Türkiye and Egypt.
Ranked as Türkiye’s second busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen continues to expand its global connectivity network with new international routes while standing among Europe’s fastest-growing aviation hubs.
Water Salute Ceremony for Nesma Airlines’ First Aircraft
A special welcoming ceremony was held at Sabiha Gökçen Airport for Nesma Airlines’ inaugural Cairo-Istanbul flight. During the event held at the terminal, passengers were offered various gifts and traditional Turkish delight, creating colorful scenes at the airport.
The first aircraft arriving from Cairo was welcomed with a “water salute” ceremony, one of the traditional rituals of the aviation industry. The cockpit and cabin crew were greeted with flowers, while the ceremony continued with a ribbon-cutting and cake celebration. ISG management and Nesma Airlines executives attended the event.
Emphasis on Cooperation from ISG Management
Speaking at the ceremony, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport Executive Director Hanita Ahmad stated that the Cairo route marks an important step in relations between the two countries.
Expressing that they aim to strengthen Istanbul’s position as a global aviation hub, Ahmad made the following statement:
“We are delighted to welcome Nesma Airlines to our airport family. Every new route is not only a commercial achievement but also a strategic connection that enhances Istanbul’s international aviation power.”
Reminding that ISG currently offers connections to 155 destinations across 55 countries, Ahmad said that new partnerships contribute to the airport’s international growth vision.
Cairo-Istanbul Flights to Operate Three Times Weekly
The Cairo-Istanbul services operated by Nesma Airlines will be conducted reciprocally three times a week. The flights, scheduled on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, are expected to create new opportunities especially for the business world, tourism sector, and investment circles.
Cairo Maintains Its Regional Power
Egypt’s capital Cairo remains one of the most important centers in the Middle East and North Africa with its historical heritage, economic capacity, and strategic location. Developing around the Nile River, the city continues to serve as a global attraction center hosting millions of visitors in terms of tourism, finance, trade, and cultural activities.
Combining its modern infrastructure with its historical texture, Cairo has also become one of the notable destinations in the regional aviation network in recent years thanks to increasing international investments and new trade connections.
A New Era in Türkiye-Egypt Air Traffic
The new flight route launched between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Nesma Airlines is considered one of the important steps strengthening the transportation network between Türkiye and Egypt. Increasing international collaborations in the aviation sector continue to reinforce Istanbul’s role as a regional transfer hub.
