Passengers who wanted to fly from London to Gaziantep with SunExpress Airlines on the evening of 31 December have been unable to take off for more than 24 hours due to successive delays. Many passengers from Gaziantep, hoping to spend the New Year in their hometown, were left stranded in London.
The flight of passengers who planned to return to Türkiye on the evening of 31 December with SunExpress Airlines’ London–Gaziantep service has still not taken place, despite 24 hours having passed. In information messages sent to passengers, the reason given for the delay was weather conditions at Gaziantep Airport.
It was learned that passengers have so far received three departure time updates for the flight. Most recently, passengers were informed by message that the aircraft would depart at 22:30 London time tonight. However, passengers state that, due to previous postponements, no definite guarantee has been given even for this time.
Expatriates Wishing to Travel for New Year Affected
Many passengers who wanted to land in Gaziantep on the night of 31 December 2025 and welcome the New Year in their hometown were forced to cancel their plans due to the delay. According to information obtained, a significant portion of the passengers consist of expatriates who planned to come to Gaziantep only for a few days for the New Year holiday.
It was learned that some passengers cancelled their tickets due to the delay approaching two days, while others faced accommodation and additional expenses in London.
“Weather Conditions” Justification Draws Reaction
Passengers state that in the information messages sent to them, each postponement began with the phrase “due to weather conditions in Gaziantep”. However, passengers say that no clear or satisfactory information was provided throughout the process and that no alternative solutions were offered.
If the flight operates, passengers are expected to arrive in Gaziantep at around 07:00 tomorrow morning. However, the continued possibility of another delay increases the uncertainty.
