İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG) marked a new milestone by welcoming the first Riyadh flight of Flyadeal, one of Saudi Arabia’s prominent low-cost airlines.
According to a statement from the airport, ISG continues to expand its network by establishing new partnerships, further connecting İstanbul with international destinations. Flyadeal has officially launched direct flights from Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, to İstanbul.
The inaugural Riyadh–İstanbul flight was greeted with a traditional water salute by HEAŞ’s Rescue and Firefighting (KYM) teams upon arrival at the apron. As part of this aviation tradition, two fire trucks sprayed pressurized water to form a rainbow over the aircraft as it taxied in.
Flyadeal’s cockpit and cabin crew were welcomed with flowers, and 170 passengers arriving from Riyadh were offered Turkish delight upon landing. A ceremonial cake-cutting event was held with the participation of ISG senior management, Flyadeal executives, and the flight crew, followed by commemorative photo sessions.
The new Riyadh (RUH)–İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) route is expected to strengthen tourism and trade ties between Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, offering easier and more accessible connectivity between the two countries.
ISG currently serves 145 destinations, with connections to 52 countries, including 106 international and 39 domestic routes. The daily flights operated by Flyadeal to ISG will further diversify the airline’s network in Türkiye.
Riyadh, a key focus of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation program, is undergoing significant cultural and tourism development. Notable attractions in the city include the iconic Kingdom Centre Tower and its observation deck, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al Diriyah, the historic Masmak Fortress, and the National Museum of Saudi Arabia.
Additionally, Riyadh hosts the annual “Riyadh Season,” a major series of entertainment, art, and cultural events that attract wide regional attention.
“We are connecting İstanbul to the world with diverse options”
During the welcoming ceremony, ISG’s Director of Strategic Planning and Treasury Management, Kerem Maybek, emphasized the importance of the new partnership with Flyadeal, stating:
“We continue to enhance connectivity, especially with Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. This new collaboration with Flyadeal is a significant step in that direction.”
Highlighting İstanbul’s global appeal, Maybek added, “With its historical and cultural heritage, unique natural beauty, modern lifestyle, and opportunities in education and trade, İstanbul stands among the world’s great cities. Flyadeal’s economical flight model will meet considerable demand on the İstanbul–Riyadh route.”
He also noted that Riyadh is becoming one of the Middle East’s most visited cities, not only for its dynamic business environment but also for its rich cultural offerings. “The high demand for flights indicates strong potential for both sides. We are committed to welcoming our guests in the best possible way at our airport,” Maybek concluded.
Source: Anadolu Ajansı/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök