Air Arabia Egypt, the region’s first and largest low-cost carrier, announced today that it has started direct services to the city of Istanbul, Turkey from the carrier’s main hub in Burj Al Arab International Airport, Alexandria. The airline’s inaugural flight to Istanbul took off on June 24, 2011.

Roundtrip flights will operate twice per week between Air Arabia’s Egypt hub in Alexandria and Istanbul Sabiha International Airport. The flights depart Alexandria on Fridays and Sundays at 17:00 and arrive in Istanbul at 19:55. The return flights depart Istanbul at 21:05 (local time) and arrive in Alexandria at 22:05 (local time).

Commenting on the occasion, A.K Nizar, Head of Commercial said, “We are delighted to announce the start of our flights to the city of Istanbul. Turkey has become a central destination and we are proud to start our services twice a week from Egypt, offering travellers between the two countries a new option for air travel. We are confident the new services between Alexandria and Istanbul will offer customers great value for money to travel between the two cities as well as encourage mutual growth in travel and tourism.”

Air Arabia Egypt only flies new aircraft of the type Airbus A320. On its entire network, Air Arabia Egypt offers full economy class with an average seat pitch of 32 inches and a free baggage allowance. Food and beverages can be bought during the flight.