Turkish Airlines launches London-Antalya direct flights

By Tuba Sahin

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish Airlines has launched direct flights from London's Gatwick Airport to the Mediterranean resort city of Antalya, the national flag carrier announced.

Starting from Sunday (yesterday), the new route will operate daily until Oct. 26, Turkish Airlines said in a statement.

"With a combination of stunning scenery, excellent weather and world class golf courses to offer, it’s easy to understand why Antalya is such a popular destination for thousands of British holiday makers each year," said Celal Baykal, the carrier's general manager in London.

Turkish Airlines services five U.K. airports -- including London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester.

Founded in 1933, Turkish Airlines flies to more than 300 destinations in over 120 countries -- 49 domestic and 257 international.

Last year, it carried more than 75 million passengers with a seat occupancy rate of 82 percent.