Peru is set to achieve another major milestone in international aviation as Turkish Airlines prepares to begin operations between Istanbul and Lima in 2027. The announcement, confirmed by Peru’s Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC), marks a significant step toward expanding the country's global connectivity and strengthening its position as one of South America’s leading tourism and business destinations.
The new route will establish the first direct air connection between Peru and Türkiye operated by Turkish Airlines, one of the world's largest international carriers, serving more countries than any other airline. The service will provide travelers with easier access to Peru from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa through Turkish Airlines' extensive global network based at Istanbul Airport.
The agreement was finalized following negotiations between Peruvian aviation authorities and Turkish Airlines, reflecting Peru's ongoing strategy to improve international air access and attract new tourism markets. The addition of Istanbul as a direct gateway significantly expands Peru’s reach into emerging outbound travel markets while creating new opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment.
For international visitors, the new route will make traveling to Peru more convenient than ever. Passengers will enjoy improved connections to iconic destinations such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, the Amazon Rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, and Peru’s renowned culinary capital, Lima. The new service is expected to reduce travel times for many passengers connecting through Europe and the Middle East while increasing flight options for leisure and business travelers alike.
The launch also complements Peru’s broader investments in transportation infrastructure. Recent projects, including the expansion of Jorge Chávez International Airport and modernization of regional airports, are designed to accommodate growing passenger demand while enhancing the country's competitiveness as an international aviation hub.
Tourism officials anticipate that the arrival of Turkish Airlines will contribute to continued growth in international visitor arrivals, particularly from markets where demand for long-haul cultural and luxury travel experiences continues to increase. Peru’s extraordinary combination of archaeological heritage, biodiversity, gastronomy, and adventure tourism makes it an increasingly attractive destination for travelers seeking unique and authentic experiences.
The new air service is also expected to strengthen commercial relations between Peru and Türkiye by facilitating business travel and supporting cargo operations between both countries. Improved connectivity can create new opportunities for exporters, investors, and international companies while reinforcing Peru’s role as a strategic gateway to South America.
As Peru continues expanding its international aviation network through new airline partnerships and Open Skies agreements, travelers can look forward to even greater accessibility in the coming years. The addition of Turkish Airlines represents another important step in connecting Peru with the world and making its extraordinary destinations more accessible to global travelers.
With direct flights from Istanbul scheduled to begin in 2027, Peru is poised to welcome even more visitors eager to discover its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-famous cuisine.