Multiple airlines have announced flight cancellations at Istanbul's major airports due to anticipated snowfall and storm conditions expected to affect the city through the week.

Turkish Airlines confirmed that several flights scheduled for February 5 and 6 at Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) have been canceled. In a statement, the airline also revised its flight reduction policy, cutting operations at Sabiha Gökçen Airport by 20% on February 6. Additionally, 10% of flights on February 7 will also be affected.

Passengers are advised to check the latest updates via the airline’s official website or customer service channels before making travel arrangements.

Other Turkish carriers, AJet and Pegasus Airlines, also announced flight cancellations, particularly affecting operations at Sabiha Gokcen Airport. AJet confirmed that due to adverse weather conditions, some flights scheduled for February 5, 6, and 7, to and from Sabiha Gokcen Airport have been canceled. Similarly, Pegasus Airlines announced that 10% of its flights from Sabiha Gokcen Airport have been canceled. Both carriers urged passengers to verify the status of their flights via official airline websites or mobile applications before making any changes to their travel plans.

Both airlines urged travelers to verify their flight status via their official websites or mobile applications before heading to the airport.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has forecast heavy snowfall and strong winds for Istanbul until the morning of February 7.

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) issued a warning on Tuesday, advising residents to prepare for intense precipitation and stormy conditions. The weather system, originating from Siberia, is expected to bring rain transitioning into snow, particularly in northern districts, starting late Tuesday night.

By Friday morning, precipitation is expected to continue as light rain, with temperatures forecasted to remain between 5-7°C (41-44.6°F) throughout the following week.

Authorities and airlines are urging travelers to stay updated on weather conditions and flight schedules before making any travel plans. (ILKHA)