Turkey Expands Its Aviation Reach with Turkish Airlines Launching New Flights to Urumqi in China

Published on
February 18, 2026

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Turkey’s Turkish Airlines is set to take its network expansion to new heights with the introduction of scheduled flights to Urumqi, a vibrant city in northwest China. This major move comes at a time when the demand for travel between Türkiye and China continues to surge. Turkish Airlines, one of the world’s most prominent carriers, aims to further solidify its presence in the Asian market and strengthen the travel ties between these two nations.

The announcement of new flights to Urumqi, as part of Turkish Airlines’ strategic growth plan, is an exciting development for both the aviation industry and tourism sectors. This new route follows the growing success of Turkish Airlines’ operations in China, which has already seen a significant increase in passenger demand.

Growing Travel Demand and Strengthening Ties Between Turkey and China

With Turkish Airlines planning to launch flights to Urumqi, the airline is reinforcing its ongoing expansion strategy in China. Turkish Airlines’ CEO, Bilal Ekşi, previously noted the airline’s commitment to becoming one of the top five global carriers by 2033, with plans to operate a fleet of 813 aircraft. This ambitious target highlights the airline’s dedication to offering more international connections and enhancing passenger services worldwide.

The launch of Urumqi flights adds to the growing list of destinations in China that Turkish Airlines serves, as demand for travel between Türkiye and China continues to rise. Turkish Airlines has already made efforts to expand its Chinese operations by increasing its weekly flight frequencies between the two countries from 21 to 49. This expansion will not only cater to business travelers but also significantly boost tourism between Turkey and China.

Visa-Free Travel Boosting Tourism Flows

Another factor that will contribute to the growth of tourism is Türkiye’s recent decision to lift the visa requirements for Chinese citizens. Chinese visitors can now enter Turkey without needing a visa for short-term tourist trips or transit stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This new policy is expected to foster increased tourism flows, making travel to Turkey more accessible for Chinese nationals and providing new opportunities for cultural exchange.

The move to lift visa requirements comes at a time when both Turkey and China are eager to deepen their economic and cultural cooperation. The easing of travel restrictions will undoubtedly open up new avenues for both business and leisure tourism and is expected to lead to a greater number of Chinese tourists exploring Turkey’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Turkish Airlines’ Strong Position in the Aviation Industry

With its sights set on becoming a top global carrier, Turkish Airlines continues to lead the way in expanding its global reach. As of January 2026, Turkish Airlines operates 522 aircraft and carried 7.6 million passengers in just one month. The airline’s impressive load factor of 84% reflects its growing popularity and ability to cater to international demand.

This latest expansion into Urumqi will allow Turkish Airlines to tap into a previously underexplored market, offering passengers from both Turkey and China greater connectivity. It is also part of a broader strategy to offer more international flight options to destinations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Turkish Airlines has already become one of the most well-connected airlines in the world, with a global network spanning 131 countries and a Guinness World Record for serving the most nations.

Increased Accessibility to Urumqi

Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang province in northwest China, is a bustling hub for trade, culture, and tourism. As one of China’s most populous inland cities, Urumqi plays a crucial role in the country’s infrastructure and economic growth. Known for its rich cultural diversity and historical significance, Urumqi has become a key travel destination for both business travelers and tourists.

With Turkish Airlines introducing direct flights to Urumqi, it will be easier for visitors from Turkey and around the world to explore this fascinating city. Travelers can look forward to exploring Urumqi’s vibrant markets, bustling bazaars, and incredible natural landscapes, such as the Tian Shan Mountains and the Karakul Lake. The expansion of air connectivity will open up new tourism routes, making it easier for travelers to experience the diverse cultural heritage of Xinjiang and the city’s stunning landscapes.

The Future of Turkish Airlines in China

The introduction of flights to Urumqi is just the beginning of Turkish Airlines’ continued growth in China. Turkish Airlines has already made significant strides in connecting Türkiye with major cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The airline has committed to increasing its presence in China further as it expands its reach and strengthens ties with the world’s most populous nation.

In the coming years, Turkish Airlines aims to increase its flight frequencies, expand its fleet, and continue to offer world-class service to passengers traveling to and from China. With Urumqi now added to its roster of destinations, Turkish Airlines is poised to become a dominant player in the rapidly growing Asian aviation market.