By Tuba Ongun
Low-cost Pegasus Airlines has launched direct flights between the Turkish capital Ankara and the Irish capital Dublin, according to airport operator TAV on Wednesday.
The flight arrival at Ankara Esenboga Airport was greeted with a water cannon salute, a traditional sign of respect or appreciation in the aviation industry, according to a statement from TAV.
Flights between Ankara and Dublin will operate three times a week, on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Nuray Demirer, TAV Esenboga Airport general manager, said: "This new route, connecting the two capitals, is a valuable addition to our list of direct flights from Ankara."
Ankara Esenboga Airport serves 77 destinations in 27 countries with 23 airlines.
In the first five months of 2024, the airport welcomed 1.1 million international passengers, an annual surge of 34%. The total number of passengers (both domestic and international) increased 13% year-on-year to 4.9 million between January and May.
TAV Airports provides integrated services in all areas of airport operations, with a global presence at 110 airports in 33 countries.