Turkey and Hungary Sign Landmark Aviation Deal to Nearly Triple Flight Rights

International

A new bilateral air services agreement sharply increases passenger and cargo capacity between Turkey and Hungary, paving the way for stronger tourism, trade, and cultural exchange

Turkey and Hungary have concluded a far-reaching aviation agreement that will substantially expand air connectivity between the two countries. The deal raises weekly passenger flight rights from 35 to 98 in its first phase and doubles cargo flight rights from seven to 14. It follows Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s recent visit to Turkey, during which 16 cooperation agreements were signed across diplomatic, economic, and cultural fields.

Once approved by the Turkish parliament, the new framework will replace the air transport agreement dating back to 1966.

A Milestone in Turkey’s Aviation Relations with the EU

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu emphasized the strategic importance of the agreement, calling it Turkey’s first air transport deal with an EU member state in many years. He noted that the accord is the result of two and a half years of negotiations and provides modernized conditions for airlines on both sides.

The agreement removes frequency and destination limitations, allowing Turkish carriers to increase services to Hungary, while Hungarian and other EU airlines may operate flights to Turkey if they meet regulatory requirements.

Boost for Tourism, Trade, and Connectivity

“When the deal comes into force, the passenger and cargo transportation capacity between Turkey and Hungary will further expand the trade volume, while supporting mutual tourism potential and improving accessibility in cultural and economic interactions between the two countries,” Uraloğlu said.

The expanded flight rights are expected to stimulate bilateral tourism, enhance cargo flows, and deepen economic ties, marking a new phase in Turkey–Hungary connectivity.