088. SunExpress

SunExpress

SunExpress has become one of the most prominent names in leisure travel across Türkiye and Europe. A unique joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, SunExpress combines the best of Turkish hospitality with German operational efficiency. With a sharp focus on connecting holiday destinations in Türkiye to major European cities, the airline has established itself as a reliable and affordable choice for millions of travelers.

A Bright Beginning

SunExpress was founded in October 1989 and launched its first flight in 1990, flying from Antalya to Frankfurt. Created specifically to serve the growing tourism industry in Türkiye, the airline’s goal was clear from day one: to become the top carrier for leisure travelers between Türkiye and Europe.

Its base in Antalya was no accident—this beautiful city on the Turkish Riviera is one of the country’s most popular vacation spots. With support from its powerful parent companies, SunExpress quickly expanded from a single-route operation into a significant player in the region’s aviation market.

Over the years, SunExpress added new domestic and international destinations, launched charter operations, and even created a German-based subsidiary, SunExpress Deutschland, to strengthen its presence in Europe. Though the German unit ceased operations in 2020, SunExpress continues to operate numerous routes between Germany and Türkiye.

Fleet and Aircraft

As of 2025, SunExpress operates an all-Boeing fleet of narrow-body aircraft designed for short- and medium-haul flights, making them ideal for the airline’s focus on tourism-based routes.

Fleet Breakdown:

  • Boeing 737-800 NG: 55 aircraft
  • Boeing 737 MAX 8: 17 aircraft in active service
  • Boeing 737 MAX 10: 17 aircraft on order
  • Total Aircraft: 72, with more deliveries scheduled through the coming years

This fleet standardization enables SunExpress to streamline maintenance, lower costs, and improve operational reliability—all of which support its affordable pricing model.

Route Network and Hubs

SunExpress serves more than 175 routes in 35 countries, linking cities throughout Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa to Türkiye’s top travel destinations.

Main Hubs:

  • Antalya Airport (AYT) – The airline’s headquarters and largest operational base
  • ?zmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) – A growing hub for both domestic and European routes
  • Ankara Esenbo?a Airport (ESB) – Strategic for central Türkiye and growing regional travel demand
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) – SunExpress’s major European base

From these hubs, the airline connects to cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, London, Zurich, Vienna, and many more. Popular domestic connections include Istanbul, Bodrum, Dalaman, Trabzon, and Gaziantep.

Onboard Experience

SunExpress is a leisure airline at heart, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on comfort. Travelers can choose from three fare classes designed to suit a range of needs and budgets:

Fare Classes:

  • SunEco – Basic fare with great value; ideal for budget-conscious travelers
  • SunClassic – Mid-tier fare with one checked bag, snack, and seat selection included
  • SunPremium – Top-tier fare with additional baggage, premium meal, preferred seating, and fast-track services

Onboard, passengers can enjoy pre-ordered meals, beverages, and a growing range of digital entertainment options through the airline’s wireless streaming service.

Quick Facts About SunExpress

  • Founded: 1989
  • Commenced Operations: 1990
  • Headquarters: Antalya, Türkiye
  • Fleet Size: 72 aircraft (and growing)
  • Destinations: Over 175 routes in 35 countries
  • Employees: Around 5,000
  • IATA Code: XQ
  • ICAO Code: SXS
  • Callsign: SUNEXPRESS
  • Ownership: Joint venture between Turkish Airlines (50%) and Lufthansa (50%)

Contact Information

Need help or have questions? SunExpress offers multiple ways to get in touch.

Website: www.sunexpress.com

Customer Service (Türkiye): +90 242 310 2626

Customer Service (Germany): +49 69 6435 03145

WhatsApp (English/Turkish): +90 541 444 0797

WhatsApp (German): +49 171 337 7053

Email: travelcenter@sunexpress.com

Head Office Address:

Yenigöl Mahallesi, Nergiz Sokak No:84

Muratpa?a, 07230 Antalya, Türkiye

Social Media Profiles

SunExpress keeps its passengers up to date with announcements, travel tips, and exclusive deals across multiple social media platforms:

Travelers can follow these channels for special offers, seasonal route announcements, contests, and live customer support.

Looking to the Future

SunExpress is not slowing down. The airline’s long-term strategic plan aims to double its fleet by 2035, eventually reaching a total of 166 aircraft. This includes major investments in new Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 10 aircraft to ensure the fleet remains efficient and eco-friendly.

In 2025, the airline expects to carry more than 16.8 million passengers, driven by robust demand for travel between Europe and Türkiye. With a projected revenue target of €2.2 billion, SunExpress is on a clear growth trajectory.

New destinations are being explored, and previously suspended routes may soon return to the schedule as travel conditions stabilize across the region. The airline is also focused on enhancing digital experiences, simplifying booking, and improving check-in and boarding through mobile and self-service tools.

Sustainability is another focus, with ongoing initiatives to reduce CO? emissions, increase fuel efficiency, and invest in cleaner aircraft technologies. SunExpress is committed to maintaining its reputation as a safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible airline.

Keyword: TopAirlines