Turkish Airlines and BA fly nonstop to Heathrow; Wizz Air targets Gatwick and Luton at.
Turkish Airlines dominates IST-LHR with 4-5 daily nonstops, some on widebody 777s with an excellent business class product. BA matches with 2-3 daily Heathrow services. Wizz Air disrupts from the budget side, flying IST to Gatwick or Luton at a fraction of the legacy price, though seat pitch is tighter and extras cost more. On Istanbul - London, compare airport pair IST -> LHR, LGW, STN, or LTN and total trip cost before paying.
Turkish citizens need a UK Standard Visitor Visa. Apply online at gov.uk and attend biometrics at a VFS Global centre in Istanbul, Ankara, or other Turkish cities. Processing takes 3-6 weeks. If you already hold a valid Schengen visa, it does not waive the UK requirement as the UK has its own immigration system post-Brexit. Istanbul to London fares move quickly, so flexible date checks usually save money.
School holiday periods in Turkey (mid-January, June, and September) and UK bank holidays drive demand. February and early March tend to produce the lowest IST-LON fares, as London weather discourages leisure travel and Turkish holiday demand is minimal. For Istanbul - London, review carrier mix (Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Wizz Air, Pegasus) before choosing a fare bundle.
Yes. A UK Standard Visitor Visa is required. Apply through gov. uk and complete biometrics at a VFS Global centre.
Turkish Airlines operates to Heathrow (LHR) with 4-5 daily nonstops. Wizz Air serves Gatwick and Luton at lower fares. BA also flies LHR. Your choice of London airport affects ground transport costs significantly.
Base fares can be GBP 50-100 lower on Wizz Air, but the airline charges for seat selection, cabin bags over 40x30x20cm, and checked luggage. For a return trip with one checked bag, the true gap is often only GBP 30-50.
