First Step in ‘Island Cyprus’ Project: THY and AJet Sign Transportation Protocol
A cooperation protocol was signed between Turkish Airlines (THY), AJet, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) under the “Island Cyprus” project to reduce ticket prices and enhance air connectivity. As per the agreement, AJet’s flights between Turkey and the TRNC will be capped at a maximum fare of 6,000 TL, with regular shuttle services to major cities in Turkey.
Additionally, following the project’s launch event scheduled for 26 July in London, round-trip tickets between London Stansted and Ercan will be priced at 250 euros.
The signing ceremony took place at the Presidential White Hall in the presence of President Ersin Tatar, where Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and THY Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee Ahmet Bolat signed the agreement. The event was attended by key government officials, THY and AJet executives, industry stakeholders, and members of the press.
Tatar: A Significant Step for the TRNC
President Ersin Tatar described the initiative as a major development for the TRNC, extending gratitude to Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, the government, Turkish Airlines, and AJet. Reflecting on the country’s aviation history, Tatar noted past efforts such as the founding of Cyprus Turkish Airlines and ventures during the Asil Nadir era, stating these experiences enriched the TRNC’s aviation legacy.
Calling the day “historic” for investments enhancing the country’s competitiveness in tourism, Tatar said recent infrastructure projects have significantly boosted the TRNC’s appeal.
He cited growth at Ercan Airport thanks to its new terminal, projecting a continued increase in passenger and flight numbers through 2025. Emphasizing the strategic importance of Istanbul Airport, Tatar noted the TRNC benefits from this global hub’s connectivity and highlighted the broader importance of such projects in improving the TRNC’s international visibility.
On the long-standing effort to achieve direct flights from the United Kingdom, Tatar reaffirmed the ongoing diplomatic push and stressed that direct flights, trade, and contact are essential human rights.
“Direct flights, direct trade, and direct contact” remain official policy goals of the TRNC, Tatar stated, adding that attempts by the opposing side to impose a federal model pose a risk to the TRNC’s security. He praised the Island Cyprus project for energizing the TRNC and thanked Turkey for its unwavering support.
Üstel: Proud to Realize a Long-Awaited Project
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel expressed his satisfaction in bringing a long-envisioned project to life. “Today we take a significant step. The Turkish Cypriot people have struggled under pressure and embargoes. Since gaining freedom after the 1974 Peace Operation, we’ve advanced with Turkey’s support,” he said.
Despite continuous attempts by the Greek Cypriot side to obstruct the TRNC’s tourism, education, and economy, Üstel said the resilience of businesspeople, hoteliers, industrialists, and citizens never wavered.
Criticizing the international community’s silence on the injustices faced by Turkish Cypriots, Üstel drew a parallel with global inaction on Gaza and condemned the continued isolation in sports and tourism.
Noting the importance of the UK market, Üstel highlighted the burden of transit travel through Istanbul, Ankara, or Izmir for passengers from Europe, both in terms of cost and time.
“We Will Make It Easier for Turkish Cypriots to Reach Home”
Üstel announced that, following the 26 July launch in London, AJet will operate three daily flights between London Stansted and Ercan, with round-trip tickets priced at 250 euros. He said this would ease access for Turkish Cypriots and encourage British tourists to revisit the TRNC.
6,000 TL Price Cap on Istanbul–Ercan Route
On the Istanbul–Ercan route, AJet flights will operate with a maximum fare of 6,000 TL. Üstel stated that these aircraft will be branded with the “Island Cyprus” logo and that this pricing model is expected to boost tourism.
Tickets will be sold through existing offices, while other airlines will continue to set their own pricing and flight schedules. Üstel emphasized that the UK-TRNC flights starting after the London launch will significantly contribute to the country’s economy and tourism revenue.
Acknowledgment to Supporters of the Project
In closing, Üstel thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Ersoy, THY Chairman Ahmet Bolat, Minister of Public Works and Transport Erhan Arıklı, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Fikri Ataoğlu, and all businesspeople involved in the project.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of the protocol and a group photo.
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