Launched with the aim of branding the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in international tourism, the “Island Cyprus” campaign aims to showcase the island’s unique cultural fabric, natural beauty, and tourism potential to the world with a modern and inclusive approach. This campaign, launched with the shared vision of the Republic of Turkey and the TRNC, symbolizes a new era in the country’s international promotion.
In this context, the promotional event held at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms Hotel in London on August 4, 2025, was a key step in the global launch of the “Island Cyprus” project. The event was also attended by TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, TRNC Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Youth Fikri Ataoğlu, and Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat. This high level of participation demonstrates the project’s commitment to the sector and the importance placed on the TRNC’s tourism vision. The event also attracted significant interest from representatives of tourism agencies and TRNC citizens of TRNC origin living in the UK.
Turkish Airlines offers strong support through our brands to increase the TRNC’s international visibility. Turkish Airlines’ aviation history with its partner Cyprus began with the first scheduled flight to Nicosia in 1951, and today, this historic connection has taken on a new dimension with our brand, AJet. With two daily flights between Istanbul and Ercan, we aim to make travel to the island more accessible and increase the TRNC’s appeal. Together with our Antalya-Cyprus flights, we connect the island to the world with a total of 56 weekly frequencies.
Our support for the Island Cyprus project is not limited to transportation; it also offers significant opportunities for local employment and destination marketing. The 60 young TRNC flight attendants to be employed by AJet will strengthen the project’s representation and provide TRNC youth with the opportunity to express themselves on an international professional platform. Furthermore, our holiday package platform, Turkish Airlines Holidays, plans to transport thousands of foreign tourists to the TRNC, aiming to increase tourism flow to the region.
Another step taken by Turkish Airlines to promote the island was the selection of renowned actress Meryem Uzerli as the face of the commercial for “Island Cyprus.” Meryem Uzerli will appear in the promotional film prepared for the project and contribute to the global visibility of “Island Cyprus” through social media. The actress, who has a global impact with her iconic roles known worldwide, is also distinguished for her social responsibility efforts. With her international recognition, the renowned actress will star in a commercial about promoting Cyprus to the world and Turkish Airlines’ role in this communication effort.
The event will showcase the TRNC’s tourism vision, new communication approach, and destination identity, while also highlighting the progress of cultural and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
