In late October 2026, Stansted Airport announced the launch of nine new routes set to begin throughout the year, extending its network across European and Turkish destinations.
New Routes and Airline Additions
Several airlines introduced new services from Stansted in 2026. Turkish Airlines started flights to Istanbul in March, operating up to 15 flights weekly. EasyJet launched a route to Paris Charles de Gaulle, while Ryanair opened service to Malmö in Sweden.
Jet2.com expanded with three destinations: Jerez in southern Spain, Samos in Greece, and La Palma in the Canary Islands. TUI added flights to Kos, Greece. BA CityFlyer began a service to Olbia, Sardinia,
and AJet introduced a route to Bodrum, Turkey. Cyprus Airways announced plans to resume flights to Larnaca, Cyprus.
Turkish Airlines Expansion
Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul service, launched in March 2026, marks Stansted as the airline’s sixth UK airport base. The carrier operates up to 15 weekly flights from Stansted and runs 170 weekly flights across the UK and Ireland during the peak summer period, linking passengers to its global hub and further connections to over 350 worldwide destinations.
Stansted Airport Growth and Official Statement
With these additions, Stansted now offers access to more than 200 destinations, reinforcing its role as one of the busiest international airports in the UK. Ciaran
Brannigan, commercial director at London Stansted Airport, said, “We’re delighted to welcome new airlines and routes during 2026 that give our passengers even greater choice, value and convenience.” He added that Stansted continues to expand as an important gateway for European and global travel.
The airport’s ongoing route expansion provides passengers with increased options for both leisure and business travel, enhancing connectivity from late 2026 onwards.
