Sudanair resumes Khartoum-Cairo flights, Badr to launch Turkey route
May 16, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The first Sudan Airways (Sudanair) flight from Cairo landed at Khartoum airport on Saturday, while Badr Airlines announced it will launch its first flight from Khartoum to Turkey on May 22.
Air traffic at Khartoum airport has shown a noticeable improvement in recent days as part of ongoing efforts to reconnect Sudan with its regional and international surroundings.
Khartoum International Airport was subjected to a drone attack two weeks ago, which led to a temporary suspension of flights before operations resumed a few days later.
Sudanair confirmed on its Facebook page on Saturday that it had landed its first direct international flight from Cairo to Khartoum. The national carrier noted that the flight operated at full passenger capacity.
The company also announced it will operate another flight from Cairo to Khartoum next Tuesday, urging passengers to book early.
Meanwhile, Badr Airlines’ booking system showed flights scheduled between Khartoum and Istanbul starting May 22, adding another international destination to the Sudanese aviation network.
According to the booking system, the flights will operate once a week on Fridays, providing a new direct travel option between Sudan and Turkey.
Mustafa Abu Sulaiman Travel and Tourism Group said economy-class ticket prices from Khartoum to Istanbul start at 2,255,000 Sudanese pounds, with a 46 kg baggage allowance, while return flights start at 2,380,000 Sudanese pounds.
The launch of the new route comes as the Sudanese aviation sector accelerates efforts to resume operations amid growing demand for direct flights to and from Khartoum.
On Wednesday, the first Badr Airlines flight from Doha arrived at Khartoum airport, marking the resumption of service on the route after more than three years of suspension due to the war.
Passengers are anticipating the announcement of more direct routes to Khartoum airport, particularly to Jeddah and Riyadh, to help ease the travel burden for thousands of displaced families.
The Civil Aviation Authority issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) last week, officially reopening Sudanese airspace to international flights to and from Khartoum International Airport.