Southwest Partners With Turkish Airlines to Offer Transatlantic Flights

Image: Southwest Airlines plane at William P Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
Image: Southwest Airlines plane at William P Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 1:45 PM ET, Wed December 17, 2025

Southwest Airlines announced it has entered into a partnership with Turkish Airlines.

Beginning in early 2026, the union will offer travelers access to convenient one-ticket, transatlantic journeys between the United States and Istanbul, Turkey.

Currently, Turkish Airlines flies to more than 350 destinations in 132 countries from its global hub at Istanbul Airport. That includes 10 airports in the U.S. that are currently served by Southwest.

Through this new partnership, international travelers will be able to connect through those shared gateway airports. Tickets will be made available next year through Turkish Airlines, travel advisors and travel websites.

"Both Southwest and Turkish Airlines are known for the warmth of our employees, the authenticity of our hospitality, and the reliability of our airline operations," Andrew Watterson, Southwest Airlines Chief Operating Officer, said in a statement.

"We're grateful for this new relationship that will usher thousands of international travelers each week through experiences around the globe that showcase the best of both carriers and globally enhance awareness of the Southwest brand."


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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