SunExpress, a Turkish airline, started running flights from the UK in 2022. The boss of the company says British holidaymakers are more “hedonistic” than Europeans
An airline boss has confessed how the first time his company took a plane full of British passengers on holiday they drank all of the booze on board within 25 minutes of take-off.
Max Kownatzki, chief executive of Turkish airline SunExpress, spoke to TTG about the behaviour of some Brits on its aircraft. He claims that UK travellers are more “hedonistic” than their European counterparts and spend a lot more money. Max claims that one flight aimed at golf enthusiasts was drained dry of its alcoholic offerings something that has never happened on any flights from other countries outside of Britain.
The airline boss said: “We sold out of beer and wine 25 minutes after departure; we haven’t done that in any other market.” It’s less surprising to British holidaymakers who often love a pint to start their trips abroad. SunExpress dubs itself a “value carrier” and operates out of Birmingham, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Luton, Bristol, Newcastle and Manchester, reports the Daily Star.
Leeds Bradford and Stansted are set to be added to the roster in 2024. The airline runs 136 flights weekly from the UK and hits some gorgeous holiday hotspots in Turkey. The country, which spans across Europe and Asia, offers some of the cheapest holiday packages around – and food and alcohol are a bargain too.
Most of the flights head to Antalya which is a glorious beach-laden coastal region that British holidaymakers will love. It has crystal clear turquoise waters and huge beach resorts among lush green mountains. Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach are among the most popular resorts offering a range of water sports activities, sunbathing spots, and vibrant beach clubs.
The area also boasts gorgeous weather with highs of 24C in May skyrocketing to 33C in August. Brits who love outdoor pursuits can enjoy hiking in the scenic Taurus Mountains, white-water rafting on the Köprüçay River as well as sailing and scuba diving off the coast.
History buffs can get stuck into hte ancient city of Termessos, located in the Taurus Mountains, which has breathtaking views and well-preserved ruins. The ancient cities of Perge, Side, and Aspendos are also worth exploring while the Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, coffee houses and shops.
SunExpress also runs many flights to Dalaman, on the southwest coast, which is close to both Marmaris known for its lively nightlife, pretty marina, and beaches, as well as Fethiye, with its stunning scenery, ancient ruins, and vibrant bazaars.
The area sits on the Turquoise Coast, renowned for its shockingly clear waters and pristine beaches. Sarıgerme Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area, boasts soft golden sand and shallow turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.