Denver International Airport (DIA) is set to expand its global reach with a new nonstop flight to Istanbul, Turkey, operated by Turkish Airlines. This route will connect Denver to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, making it the longest flight from Denver, covering over 6,000 miles—nearly 400 miles longer than the current longest flight to Tokyo operated by United Airlines.
Scheduled to commence on June 11, this addition marks another step toward DIA’s goal of accommodating 100 million passengers annually by 2027. Turkish Airlines’ network offers access to over 90% of the world’s population and a significant portion of the global economy, making it a valuable addition for DIA.
With Istanbul Airport serving as a crucial hub for travel to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, the new flight presents an opportunity for enhanced connectivity, especially to India, according to DIA CEO Phil Washington.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston sees this development as pivotal for Denver’s aspirations to become an international hub, attracting businesses and tourism to the area. The new route will operate three times a week initially, with plans to increase frequency later in the year.
J. J. Ament, CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes the potential for increased collaboration between regions facilitated by this new connection.
Turkish Airlines’ decision to include Denver as its 14th destination in the U.S. underscores its commitment to expanding its presence in North America. This move is expected to bolster the local economy, with projections of generating $54 million for Colorado and creating 350 jobs.
Furthermore, discussions are underway to introduce even more international connections, including talks with Ethiopian Airlines to establish a direct flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This endeavor aligns with Denver’s ambitious plans to accommodate a growing number of passengers and enhance its position as a key transportation hub.
As Denver continues to pursue new flight routes and expand its global connections, the airport remains optimistic about the future and the potential for further growth and development.