Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Southwest Links With Turkish Airlines for One-Ticket U.S.–Istanbul Travel Starting Early 2026

The basic interline extends Southwest's reach via Istanbul, with launch sales limited to Turkish channels plus select agencies.

Overview

  • Passengers will be able to book single-itinerary connections between Southwest’s U.S. network and Turkish Airlines’ flights to Istanbul with through-checked baggage.
  • The tie-up launches via 10 shared U.S. gateways served by both carriers, creating multiple connection points for onward travel across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
  • Tickets will be offered next year through Turkish Airlines, travel agents, and online travel agencies, with Southwest continuing backend work to add partner bookings on its own platforms.
  • The arrangement is an interline rather than a codeshare, with no initial loyalty earning or redemption reciprocity confirmed.
  • The deal is Southwest’s sixth overseas partnership announced in 2025 and comes as the carrier prepares a redesigned cabin with assigned and extra-legroom seating from Jan. 27, 2026.