Southwest Airlines and Turkish Airlines launched a single-ticket partnership in early 2026, enabling passengers to book transatlantic journeys through a single reservation. The collaboration, announced in late 2025, connects Southwest’s U.S. network with Turkish Airlines’ global hub at Istanbul Airport, which serves 132 countries and 350 destinations.
Under the arrangement, tickets are sold through Turkish Airlines, travel websites, and travel agents. Customers can connect at 10 U.S. airports where Southwest operates, then fly via Istanbul to destinations including Paris, London, Cairo, Buenos Aires, Melbourne, and others across North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and South America.
Southwest Airlines Chief Operating Officer Andrew Watterson said: “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. We’re grateful for this new relationship that will usher thousands of international travelers each week through experiences around the globe that showcase the best of both carriers and globally enhances awareness of the Southwest brand.”
The partnership follows six agreements Southwest signed with overseas airlines in 2025, expanding its reach into Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The carrier also introduced redesigned cabin spaces and assigned extra-legroom seating on January 27, 2026.
Why it matters
For Southwest, the tie-up provides a low-cost entry point into long-haul international travel without operating its own widebody fleet. Turkish Airlines gains access to Southwest’s extensive U.S. domestic network, funnelling connecting passengers through Istanbul. The single-ticket model simplifies booking for travellers and opens new itineraries for tour operators and DMCs serving Turkey and beyond. The partnership also signals a broader trend of U.S. low-cost carriers using hub partnerships to compete with legacy transatlantic joint ventures.
