In a major step to enhance the international visibility of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC), Turkish Airlines (THY) has launched the “Ada Kıbrıs” project—an ambitious tourism campaign supported by actress Meryem Uzerli as its global face. Best known for her role as Hürrem Sultan in the globally acclaimed series Magnificent Century, Uzerli brings both star power and credibility to the project, which aims to rebrand KKTC as a prominent travel destination on the world stage.
Turkish Airlines Chairman Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat emphasized Uzerli’s global appeal and her involvement in humanitarian causes, noting that she will play a key role not only in promotional films but also across social media to maximize the campaign’s global reach.
Affordable Flights and Strategic Connections
In support of the campaign, THY’s subsidiary airline Ajet will begin offering round-trip flights from London Stansted to Ercan Airport in Northern Cyprus for just £250. These flights, effective from August 5, will be operated via connecting routes through Istanbul and Ankara. The move is a direct response to decades of limited air access to KKTC, often requiring lengthy and costly travel through third countries.
This new route not only provides British travelers with a more cost-effective and convenient alternative but also aims to reduce dependency on Southern Cyprus’ Larnaca Airport, which many tourists currently use due to direct access and cheaper options.
Loud Message from London: Full Support for KKTC
The official launch of the project took place at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms Hotel in London, where a high-level delegation convened to introduce the campaign. The event featured a powerful lineup including KKTC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Fikri Ataoğlu, THY Chairman Ahmet Bolat, Ajet General Manager Kerem Sarp, and THY Deputy General Manager Ahmet Olmuştur.
Their collective presence sent a clear message: the KKTC is opening its doors to the world, with Türkiye standing firmly behind it.
Tourism as KKTC’s Economic Engine
During his address, Prime Minister Üstel described tourism as the locomotive sector of the KKTC economy. He pointed out the chronic travel challenges imposed by international non-recognition and embargoes. These hurdles often force travelers to enter KKTC through Southern Cyprus, with many opting for flights to Larnaca and then crossing the border by land.
Üstel explained that indirect flights to Ercan Airport from the UK typically require connections in cities like Istanbul or Antalya, resulting in 8–9-hour journeys and costs between £500–£600. In contrast, direct flights to the South average just £300, making them a more attractive option despite political complexities.
“This campaign will change that equation,” Üstel stated, urging the estimated 400,000 KKTC citizens residing in the UK to embrace Ajet’s new routes and reduce their reliance on Southern Cyprus.
“Stop Flying Through the South”
Üstel’s message was clear and assertive: “We call on our citizens in the UK—stop flying through the South. Use Ajet’s bridge to Ercan and strengthen our connection to our homeland.”
He emphasized that Türkiye has never left KKTC alone in its struggle against global embargoes and will continue to support the island’s development—especially through projects that assert KKTC’s visibility and legitimacy in the international arena.
THY Introduces Fare Caps and Discounts for KKTC
THY Chairman Ahmet Bolat expanded on Türkiye’s multifaceted approach to supporting KKTC. He highlighted three key measures:
A fare cap of 6,000 TL for Istanbul–Ercan flights
A 50% discount for war veterans and relatives of martyrs from KKTC
The launch of affordable flights from London via Ajet
Bolat also announced plans to establish a version of Türkiye’s “Service Exporters’ Association” in KKTC under the leadership of Prime Minister Üstel. This initiative will allow KKTC’s tourism and service industries to benefit from structured mentorship and global expansion strategies.
Aiming for 6 Million Tourists and $3 Billion in Revenue
Deputy Prime Minister Fikri Ataoğlu shared the project’s long-term ambitions. Currently, KKTC welcomes around 4 million tourists annually—2 million arriving by land and another 2 million by air. The goal is to raise this figure to 6 million by 2026 and increase tourism revenues from $2 billion to $3 billion.
The campaign is seen as a gateway to achieving this growth by tackling logistical hurdles and shifting international perception. KKTC’s rich culture, pristine coastline, and affordability position it as an attractive alternative to overcrowded Mediterranean destinations.
Uzerli’s Role: More Than Just a Celebrity Face
Meryem Uzerli’s involvement adds a compelling narrative layer to the campaign. Her widespread recognition across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia—especially among fans of Turkish dramas—makes her an ideal ambassador. Uzerli’s presence in the promotional film and digital campaigns is expected to elevate KKTC’s profile in markets where Turkish culture and entertainment already enjoy significant influence.
Her reputation for social responsibility further aligns the campaign with global trends emphasizing ethical tourism, inclusivity, and cultural preservation.
A Tourism Pivot with Political Significance
Beyond travel and leisure, the “Ada Kıbrıs” project carries clear geopolitical undertones. By enhancing direct access and investing in a global media campaign, Türkiye and KKTC are pushing back against isolation and asserting a stronger identity on the world stage.
The move comes at a time of growing interest in alternative tourism destinations that offer authenticity, heritage, and value—all qualities the KKTC aims to highlight through this initiative.
A Turning Point for KKTC Travel
As the campaign kicks into gear, expectations are high. The combination of celebrity endorsement, affordable access, government backing, and strategic messaging makes “Ada Kıbrıs” one of the most comprehensive tourism efforts in KKTC’s recent history.
If successful, the project could not only revitalize KKTC’s tourism economy but also reshape the region’s travel dynamics, opening the island to wider international recognition and engagement.
