TGS Expands International Network with Icelandair’s Launch of Istanbul Flights

As one of Turkey’s strongest ground handling providers, TGS Ground Services Inc. continues to expand its international client portfolio. Most recently, the company entered into cooperation with Iceland’s flag carrier, Icelandair (ICE), providing ground services for the airline’s flights to Istanbul Airport.

This agreement is considered an important step, both for TGS in growing its global service network and for supporting Istanbul Airport’s vision of becoming a world-class transfer hub.

Icelandair’s First Flight to Istanbul Airport

Iceland’s national airline, Icelandair, operated its inaugural flight to Istanbul on Friday, 5 September 2025. Flight FI900 departed from Keflavik International Airport (KEF) and landed at Istanbul Airport at 23:55.

The return flight, FI901, departed from Istanbul to Reykjavik on Saturday, 6 September 2025, at 12:25. These historic flights marked the beginning of Icelandair’s regular operations to Istanbul.

Statement from TGS

Announcing this new partnership, TGS said:

“We are delighted to welcome Icelandair into our customer portfolio and to serve them at Istanbul Airport. We wish this cooperation to be beneficial for both companies.”

This statement is seen as an important part of the company’s international growth strategy.

Contribution to Istanbul Airport’s Global Connectivity Vision

As one of the largest airports in the world, Istanbul Airport stands as a strategic bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Americas with its modern infrastructure and wide network of destinations. Icelandair’s flights further strengthen Istanbul’s vision of becoming a global connectivity hub.

With TGS’s support, this collaboration not only establishes a new air bridge between Iceland and Turkey but also provides passengers with more destination options.

TGS’s International Growth Strategy

As Turkey’s leading ground handling provider, TGS delivers high-standard services not only to domestic carriers but also to international airlines. Currently serving more than 60 airlines, the company now welcomes flights from Northern Europe through its cooperation with Icelandair.

A New Connection Between Icelandair and Turkey

Icelandair, Iceland’s national carrier, uses Reykjavik as a major hub between Europe and North America. The launch of Istanbul flights offers new connection opportunities for passengers travelling from Turkey to the Americas. At the same time, Istanbul becomes a new gateway for Icelandic tourists and business travellers.

TGS Strengthening Its Position as Turkey’s Leading Ground Services Company

TGS (Turkish Ground Services) continues to consolidate its leadership in the aviation services sector. Established on 1 January 2010 as a joint venture between Turkish Airlines Inc. and Havaş (Airport Ground Services Inc.), TGS provides all essential ground services during aircraft arrivals and departures with high quality standards.

Services Provided by TGS

TGS supports airline operations with a wide range of services:

• Passenger Services: Check-in, ticket control, baggage handling, and passenger guidance.

• Ramp Services: Aircraft parking, pre- and post-flight operations, loading and unloading.

• Cargo and Mail Services: Handling, processing, and secure delivery of cargo and mail.

• Aircraft Maintenance and Cleaning: Interior and exterior cleaning services.

• Apron and Runway Services: Support for aircraft movements on apron and runway.

• Fuel Services: Safe and efficient aircraft refuelling.

TGS provides all these services in line with international quality standards while prioritising customer satisfaction.

TGS’s Achievements in the Sector

Since its establishment, TGS has achieved significant success. In 2024, it rose 69 places in Capital magazine’s “Top 500 Companies in Turkey” ranking, reaching 154th place.

More About Icelandair: Expanding Routes and Modern Fleet

Icelandair continues to strengthen its role as a bridge between Europe and North America. With its expanding route network, modernised fleet, and its tourism-enhancing Stopover Program, the airline offers unique travel opportunities to passengers.

New Routes: Istanbul and Edinburgh

As of 2025, Icelandair launched flights between Reykjavik and both Istanbul and Edinburgh. These new destinations reinforce the airline’s presence in Europe while opening Iceland to a wider audience.

Domestic Network Expansion

Strengthening its domestic operations, the airline expanded Reykjavik-based flights with the addition of the Höfn route, improving accessibility between Icelandic regions.

Modern and Eco-Friendly Fleet

Operating with a fleet of around 42 aircraft, Icelandair added Airbus A321LRs in 2024. From 2029, more environmentally friendly Airbus A321XLRs will join the fleet. This move supports the airline’s goal of reducing carbon emissions while offering greater passenger comfort.

Strategic Partnerships

Expanding its codeshare agreement with Alaska Airlines, Icelandair now offers passengers more connection options across the Americas, making transatlantic travel easier and more flexible.

Contribution to Icelandic Tourism

The long-running Icelandair Stopover Program allows passengers travelling between Europe and North America to spend several days in Iceland. This programme remains one of the most important contributors to the country’s tourism sector.

About Icelandair

Founded in 1937 and headquartered in Reykjavik, Icelandair currently operates flights to more than 60 destinations. With its modern fleet, customer-focused service approach, and strategic location, the airline is one of the most reliable choices for passengers travelling between Europe and North America.