Southwest Airlines and Turkish Airlines to launch transatlantic partnership in 2026

International

New cooperation will enable one-ticket journeys between the United States and Istanbul with onward connections across both airline networks

Southwest Airlines and Turkish Airlines have announced a new partnership set to begin in early 2026, opening up seamless transatlantic travel options between the United States and Istanbul. The cooperation will allow passengers to book single-ticket itineraries that combine flights operated by both carriers, with connections available through shared gateway airports in the U.S.

Under the agreement, travelers will be able to fly with Southwest from its domestic network to selected U.S. airports served by Turkish Airlines and continue onward to Istanbul. From there, Turkish Airlines offers connections to more than 350 destinations in 132 countries via its global hub at Istanbul Airport. Tickets are expected to go on sale in 2026 through Turkish Airlines, travel agents and major booking platforms.

“Both Southwest and Turkish Airlines are known for the warmth of our Employees, the authenticity of our Hospitality, and the reliability of our airline operations,” said Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer of Southwest Airlines. “This new relationship will introduce thousands of international travelers each week to the strengths of both carriers while increasing global awareness of the Southwest brand.”

The partnership with Turkish Airlines is the latest in a series of international collaborations announced by Southwest this year. In total, the airline has unveiled six partnerships with overseas carriers, linking its network to destinations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The move is part of a broader strategy to expand customer choice and enhance the travel experience, alongside product upgrades such as a redesigned cabin interior and the introduction of assigned and extra-legroom seating from January 27, 2026.

Turkish Airlines’ extensive long-haul and global network, combined with Southwest’s strong domestic presence in the United States, is expected to create new travel options for both leisure and business passengers. The cooperation marks a significant step for Southwest in extending its reach beyond the Americas while offering customers easier access to a wide range of international destinations.