Turkey’s flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, has added Ohrid, North Macedonia, to its growing flight network, further strengthening its presence in the Balkans. With this expansion, Ohrid becomes the airline’s second destination in North Macedonia, following the capital, Skopje.
This move marks a significant milestone for Turkish Airlines, bringing its European destinations to 123 and its global reach to 353.
A New Gateway to a UNESCO-Listed Treasure
Ohrid, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Balkans,” is a city of extraordinary historical and cultural significance. Its jewel, Lake Ohrid, is one of Europe’s most biodiverse regions and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. A year later, the entire city was recognized for its unique blend of historical, cultural, and natural heritage.
With its ancient churches, Ottoman-era architecture, and scenic lakeside views, Ohrid has long been a favorite among travelers seeking a mix of history and natural beauty. Now, Turkish Airlines is making it easier than ever for visitors from around the world to experience this remarkable destination.
New Direct Flights Between Istanbul and Ohrid
Turkish Airlines has launched four weekly flights between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Ohrid St. Paul The Apostle Airport (OHD). These direct connections are expected to boost both tourism and business ties between Türkiye and North Macedonia.
Bilal Ekşi, CEO of Turkish Airlines, emphasized the importance of this new route:
“As Turkish Airlines, we believe that our newly launched flights to/from Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest settlements, will create new opportunities for both tourism and business.”
He also highlighted Ohrid’s deep cultural ties to the Balkans and its Ottoman heritage, noting that the airline’s expansion would further strengthen cultural exchanges in the region.
Strengthening Ties in the Balkans
Turkish Airlines has been steadily growing its presence in the Balkans, connecting major cities and historical hubs to its vast global network. With Ohrid now added to its routes, the airline continues to play a key role in linking Turkey with southeastern Europe, making travel more accessible and promoting economic and cultural exchanges.
