Sabiha Gökçen Continues Its Growth in Europe

ISG Opens New Doors at the Meeting Point of Asia and Europe

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG) has added another route to its network in line with its goal of increasing destination diversity in Europe. The direct flights from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen to Bilbao, which commenced today with the 2025 winter season, expand travel options between Turkey and Northern Spain. Flights on the SAW – BIO route will operate four times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays in the mornings.

The first flight on the new route was sent off to Bilbao this morning with a ceremony held at the terminal. Passengers were welcomed with Turkish delight at the Gate and posed for photos in the designated area before boarding.

Bilbao, the cultural, artistic and gastronomic center of the Basque Country, was Pegasus Airlines' last route opening with SAW departures in 2025.

ISG opened a total of 25 lines in 2025

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (ISG) International Airport expanded its flight network by launching 14 new international and 1 new domestic flights, in addition to additional routes to existing routes, and opened a total of 25 routes in 2025, 23 international and 2 domestic.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport currently connects Istanbul to a total of 153 destinations in 54 countries, including 39 domestic and 114 international destinations.

Passengers arriving directly or via connecting flights from Sabiha Gökçen Airport can comfortably and easily reach the popular city of the dynamic Basque region thanks to Bilbao Airport's (BIO) proximity to the city center and the amenities it offers.

The favorite city of art lovers: Bilbao

Bilbao, the heart of the Basque Country in northern Spain and a favorite among art lovers, stands out with its architectural wonders and the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, situated on the banks of the Nervión River. Transformed by the Guggenheim Museum's influence on modern art, Bilbao has become an inspiring city with a contemporary identity while simultaneously retaining its historical character.

With its strong industrial, commercial, port, and university infrastructure, the region offers sustainable demand throughout the year and also appeals to a broad demographic. Encompassing Bilbao, as well as major centers such as Vitoria-Gasteiz and Pamplona, ​​this region fosters economic and cultural dynamism.

The city, which stands out with its rich Basque cuisine, is a strong draw for international visitors, with its internationally renowned gastronomic heritage, Michelin-starred restaurants, and rich local delicacies such as San Sebastián, which gives its name to the world-famous dessert, further enhancing the destination's tourist appeal.

Bilbao, Sabiha Gökçen's fourth destination in Spain after Barcelona, ​​Madrid and Seville, is expected to strengthen touristic and commercial ties between Spain and Bilbao.

Source: HORECA TREND and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG)