Air Arabia Egypt launches direct flights to Istanbul's Sabiha Gokcen Airport

By Sibel Morrow

ISTANBUL (AA) — Air Arabia Egypt’s inaugural flight took off on Saturday from Cairo to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, marking a significant expansion in the airport's short-haul network.

The flight’s arrival in Istanbul was greeted with a water cannon salute, a traditional of sigh of respect or appreciation in the aviation industry.

A ceremony was held to commemorate the first flight, attended by Nuket Angin, Air Arabia's regional director for Eastern Europe, and top management from Sabiha Gokcen International Airport.

The event featured a warm welcome for cabin crew and passengers, including the presentation of flowers and the offering of Turkish delight to guests.

During his keynote speech, Serhat Sogukpinar, chairman of the Executive Board at the airport, highlighted the importance of linking Istanbul with Cairo, both major hubs for tourism and trade.

"With the addition of another airline, our weekly flights to Cairo not only increase but also diversify, " Sogukpinar said, adding that more airlines and destinations are expected to be added.

Flights to Cairo will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, expanding the airport's connectivity to Egypt.

Air Arabia Egypt will be the 47th carrier in Sabiha Gokcen's international network. It will also be the fourth carrier to offer flights from the airport to Egypt and the fourth member of Air Arabia Group to operate at Sabiha Gokcen International Airport.