In an exciting development for travelers spanning continents, Icelandair has made a significant move to expand its global route network through a strategic codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines, set to kick off in September 2025. This alliance isn’t just a business deal; it’s a chance to make travel between Iceland, Turkey, and Australia easier and more efficient for everyone involved.
This collaboration has received the green light from aviation authorities in both Iceland and Turkey, truly showcasing a united effort to enhance connectivity between these regions. The partnership will also create new opportunities for Australians to explore Iceland, as well as for travelers coming from Europe and Asia looking to embrace what Australia has to offer.
Commencing on September 5, 2025, Icelandair will introduce a direct flight route from Reykjavík’s Keflavík International Airport (KEF) to Istanbul Airport (IST). But that’s not all. Once in Istanbul, travelers will gain access to Turkish Airlines-operated flights to major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne—making it easier for you to hop from one hemisphere to another without a hitch.
So, how does this work? Imagine booking your flight under an Icelandair number, and then seamlessly transitioning onto a Turkish Airlines flight to your dream destination in Australia. This cooperation is not only about moving people; it’s about opening doors to new adventures and experiences.
The routes covered in this partnership are particularly exciting. You’ll be able to choose between flying from Istanbul to Kuala Lumpur and then onto Sydney, or opting for the Istanbul to Singapore route before landing in Melbourne. Turkish Airlines, renowned for its extensive experience in Southeast Asia and Australia, provides the strong backbone needed for this venture, allowing Icelandair to effortlessly extend its reach into this vital aviation market.
This partnership is more than just a corporate endeavor; it has also been endorsed by civil aviation authorities in Iceland, Turkey, Australia, and even the transit countries of Malaysia and Singapore. These approvals underscore not only the legality but the value this collaboration brings to global travel.
Australia’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts has recognized the codeshare as a boon for international connectivity. After all, forging strong tourism and business relationships is critical in today’s interconnected world. Iceland, too, stands to benefit by presenting itself as an easily accessible gateway connecting Europe, Asia, and Oceania through this newfound partnership.
Moreover, Turkish aviation authorities view this collaboration as a strategic win, placing Istanbul Airport at the center of international travel between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. With its modern facilities and prime location, Istanbul is poised to attract even more travelers.
As both Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport gear up for increased passenger traffic, their efforts to further strengthen Australia’s global aviation presence are commendable. Enhanced international connectivity reflects a shared commitment to making air travel more accessible and appealing.
Tourism and commerce departments across Iceland, Turkey, and Australia recognize the importance of this agreement in enriching not just air travel, but also in cultivating cultural exchanges and business opportunities. Australian tourism authorities are particularly enthusiastic about having better links to Europe through Turkey and Iceland, eager to welcome more visitors eager to explore all that Australia has to offer.
Looking ahead, official forecasts project substantial growth in passenger numbers on these new routes. This partnership aligns perfectly with ongoing governmental strategies aimed at not just promoting travel, but fostering economic cooperation among Iceland, Turkey, Australia, and Southeast Asian nations.
In closing, the new codeshare agreement between Icelandair and Turkish Airlines marks a significant leap forward in global aviation connectivity. Beyond just a partnership, it reflects the forward-thinking aspirations of each nation’s aviation authorities. With this alliance, air travel will become more accessible, paving the way for unforgettable adventures and unforgettable human connections. Whether you’re a business traveler, a tourism enthusiast, or an explorer at heart, get ready to embark on extraordinary journeys that span continents.
Image Source: Erman Gunes / Shutterstock
